The Alberta government's 2023 budget committed to expanding and modernizing rural hospitals and facilities.
The budget commits $105 million over three years for the Rural Health Facilities Revitalization Program, including $75 million in additional funding for capital projects in rural Alberta.
“We are making sure we have the necessary funding in place to build and strengthen health care in our rural communities and address barriers to care for those looking for support and treatment close to home and family. This work includes programs that focus on how to recruit, retain and even train more physicians, nurses and other professionals in areas outside of the cities,” said Jason Copping, Minister of Health.
While it appears the spending on health care infrastructure does not show any commitment to the Drumheller facilities, Tracy Kennedy, senior communications advisor provided a statement from AHS noting that the Drumheller Health Centre is committed to growing capacity through staffing.
“Recruiting and retaining staff, particularly registered nurses, continues to be our highest priority. We are working closely with AHS Talent Acquisition to advertise and connect with potential candidates, as well as offer relocation support when applicable. Central Zone-wide efforts to support retention of new hires are on track and include a new standardized rural orientation program for RN and LPNs,” the statement reads. “Drumheller has also been identified as a priority site for AHS’ Internationally Educated Nurse initiative and three full-time positions have been assigned for fulfillment through this initiative. While we work to recruit permanent staff, we have engaged contract nurses to help bridge the gap and support both our acute care and surgery program.”
The Health Workforce Strategy provides $113 million to add 100 residency training spaces for newly graduated doctors, particularly in rural areas and specialist fields.
In addition to this investment, a further $1 million will go toward exploring ways regional post-secondary institutions can help deliver medical education.
This year’s budget also funds the new agreement with the Alberta Medical Association, further stabilizing the health system and focusing on Alberta’s rural communities.
Under the agreement, more than $250 million over four years will go to addressing pressures, including recruitment and retention programs so more Albertans can access family doctors, and supporting physicians so their practices remain viable.
