Starting July 31, Albertans will have more options to take greater control of their health care decisions through preventative testing. Individuals will be able to purchase diagnostic screening tests including MRIs, CT scans, x-rays and ultrasounds, without a doctor’s referral at participating private providers. If a preventative screening identifies a new, previously unknown cancer diagnosis, the patient will be eligible for reimbursement at publicly funded rates.
Preventative testing will complement, not replace, the publicly funded system. All medically necessary care will continue to be publicly funded under Alberta’s Public Health Care Guarantee. Physician-referred tests will continue to be prioritized in both public and private facilities based on need.
“Better health care starts with prevention. Alberta is the first province in Canada to offer expanded access to preventative testing because we've seen how early detection is saving lives and improving outcomes in leading jurisdictions around the world. We're giving Albertans access to earlier screening and detection while keeping our promise that publicly funded health care will always be there when they need it."
“Every Albertan deserves the best possible chance at a healthy future. Expanding access to preventative testing is one more way we are helping people detect cancer earlier, access care sooner and make informed decisions about their health.”
Cancer is the leading cause of death in Alberta, and its impact is felt by families across the province. With one in two Albertans developing cancer in their lifetime, expanding access to early screening and diagnosis is critical. If cancer is detected or suspected, Albertans will be referred to Cancer Care Alberta for follow-up and ongoing care. Albertans will have a full year to submit their claim for reimbursement at publicly funded rates upon receiving a cancer diagnosis.
“Our focus in Cancer Care Alberta is ensuring once diagnosed, Albertans have a clear, connected path from diagnosis into treatment and ongoing care. Preventative health testing is one more way to empower Albertans and may support earlier detection while keeping medically necessary care publicly funded and prioritized.”
"Preventative testing is important to a healthy population, and Alberta is a leader in timely diagnostic imaging thanks to a robust community clinic network. We look forward to working with the Alberta government to expand appropriate patient choices in participating clinics, while ensuring a high-quality care experience for all Albertans."
Countries with strong public health systems including Germany, Japan, South Korea and Switzerland, have adopted a variety of approaches to preventative screening and early detection to help identify disease and improve health outcomes. Evidence indicates that expanded screening results in more cancer cases detected. As a result, cases that might not otherwise have been diagnosed may begin potentially lifesaving early treatment. Alberta is the first jurisdiction in the country to offer reimbursement for preventative health testing.
Test results will be connected to electronic health records to support continuity of care and avoid duplication. This helps ensure patients and their health care providers have access to the same information and supports continuity of care across the health system. This expansion of preventative testing will also support investment in diagnostic clinics and equipment, expanding options for early detection across the province’s health system.
Key facts
- The rollout will begin July 31, with participating clinics introducing services gradually over the following weeks.
- If cancer is detected or suspected, Albertans will be referred to appropriate health care providers for follow-up and ongoing care.
- Albertans will have a full year to submit their claim for reimbursement at publicly funded rates upon receiving a cancer diagnosis.
- All medically necessary care will continue to be publicly funded under Alberta’s Public Health Care Guarantee.
- Physician and nurse practitioner-referred medically necessary testing will remain publicly funded and prioritized based on clinical need.
- Alberta’s government is investing in expanded cancer care and supports including:
- $2.25 million for a new oncofertility program
- $5.5 million for cancer screening
- $280 million for diagnostic imaging and cancer care upgrades
- an additional $223 million over three years for oncologists, surgeries, facility renovations and supportive care.
Related information
- Preventative health testing
- Expanding health care access for Albertans
- Alberta’s Strategic Plan for Cancer