Alberta healthcare legislation protests

Protests have emerged in response to Alberta’s Health Statutes Amendment Act, known as Bill 11, which allows physicians to work in both public and private healthcare systems simultaneously. Critics argue this dual-practice model creates a two-tiered system that violates the Canada Health Act by potentially allowing extra-billing for medically necessary services.

Initial opposition was led by groups like Friends of Medicare, who organized rallies in Alberta communities such as Red Deer. As the legislation's implementation approached, the movement expanded into a national ‘Day of Action’ involving rallies in 30 locations across Canada. Advocacy groups, including the Canadian Health Coalition, have characterized the bill as “the biggest threat against health care since the Canada Health Act was passed in 1984,” warning that it could lead to resource migration toward private systems and increased waitlists in the public sector.

Under the new rules, physicians must apply for approval and meet specific public-sector hour requirements to be eligible for dual practice, though family physicians are currently excluded. While surgeries under this framework are expected to begin later this fall, protesters continue to call on the federal government to intervene and enforce national healthcare standards.