Indigenous Dancer, ATC 2024
EDMONTON — Alberta’s proposed 2026 budget includes more than $34 million aimed at improving access to primary care and health services for First Nations, Métis and Inuit communities across the province.
The funding, if approved, is focused on expanding culturally appropriate care, particularly in rural and remote areas where access has been limited.
Health officials say nearly $16 million will go toward compensating more than 95 physicians to provide patient-centred care in 18 communities, as well as in Edmonton and Calgary. Several of those physicians are Indigenous.
Another $16 million is earmarked for programs delivered through the Indigenous Health Division, including support for community organizations to recruit and retain patient navigators who help individuals access health, social and community services.
An additional $2.9 million is planned for Indigenous-led prevention and screening initiatives, including cancer screening programs, the Siksika Health and Wellness Centre and a virtual diabetes care clinic serving remote communities.
Primary and Preventative Health Services Minister Adriana LaGrange says the investments are intended to ensure Indigenous patients can access care close to home while strengthening community-led supports.
Indigenous Relations Minister Rajan Sawhney says the funding is part of the province’s broader commitment to reconciliation and improving health outcomes through partnerships with Indigenous communities.
Leaders from Indigenous organizations say the investments will help reduce barriers to care and strengthen culturally informed services across Alberta.
The province says the spending is part of a broader $12.7 billion commitment to primary and preventative health care in Budget 2026, representing a 13.2 per cent increase from the previous year.
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