# Alberta implements dual-practice healthcare model

> Live situation record from CLSTR: https://clstr.news/situations/alberta-healthcare-mixed-practice-model-implementation
> Updated: 2026-10-01T17:41:21.000Z. Sources: 8. Developments: 3.

Alberta has transitioned to a “dual-practice” healthcare model, effective September 1, 2026. This implementation allows surgeons to operate within the public system while simultaneously charging patients private fees for expedited access to services.

Under this new arrangement, patients facing long waits for publicly funded procedures—such as hip replacements that can take six to 12 months—may opt to receive surgery within weeks by paying approximately $30,000. 

The shift has renewed concerns regarding the potential for a move toward an American-style system if protections under the Canada Health Act are diminished. Additionally, critics have raised questions about the impact this model may have on healthcare access for rural populations.

## Claims

- Alberta is introducing a mixed practice model through Bill 11. (corroborated by 3 sources)
- The mixed practice model allows physicians to work in both public and private systems. (corroborated by 3 sources)
- The model aims to address physician capacity, infrastructure use, and recruitment. (corroborated by 3 sources)
- Alberta's dual-practice model, allowing surgeons to charge privately for faster access while working in the public system, commenced on September 1. (corroborated by 2 sources)
- Under the new model, a patient could potentially receive a hip replacement within weeks rather than six to 12 months by paying approximately $30,000. (corroborated by 2 sources)

## Timeline

### 2026-10-01: Alberta implements dual-practice healthcare model

Alberta has launched a dual-practice healthcare model allowing private payments for faster surgical access. Meanwhile, Southern Alberta's Highway 3 region eyes growth via irrigation expansion.

3 sources. https://clstr.news/cluster/alberta-implements-dual-practice-healthcare-model

### 2026-09-18: Alberta introduces mixed practice health care model via Bill 11

Alberta is introducing Bill 11, a mixed practice model allowing physicians to work in both public and private systems to address physician shortages and surgical wait times.

3 sources. https://clstr.news/cluster/alberta-introduces-mixed-practice-health-care-model-via-bill-11

### 2026-09-07: Alberta Health explores dual public-private surgeries to reduce wait times

A former hospital manager supports Alberta Health’s move toward dual public and private surgeries to help reduce healthcare wait times.

2 sources. https://clstr.news/cluster/alberta-health-explores-dual-public-private-surgeries-to-reduce-wait-times

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Cite as: Alberta implements dual-practice healthcare model. CLSTR, https://clstr.news/situations/alberta-healthcare-mixed-practice-model-implementation