Questions arose following the announcement to close Fort McMurray’s only After-Hours clinic.
The Wood Buffalo Primary Care Network stated they would close the clinic on weekdays as of March 31, 2020.
Its decision is due to Alberta Budget cuts and new healthcare rules.
In a statement, Fort McMurray-Lac La Biche MLA Laila Goodridge said she was very upset to hear the clinic would close.
“They are a vital part of our community and relied upon by many families and individuals throughout our region. I have reached out to the Minister of Health on this important issue and our government has reached out to the Wood Buffalo PCN to discuss their concerns and work proactively with them.”
Beginning March 31, Alberta will implement a cap on office visits for physicians to 65 patients per day.
Goodridge said B.C. enforces a similar cap and found no negative impact on a physician’s ability to provide care.
According to Health Minister Tyler Shandro, the current system is unsafe and would lead to burnout of physicians.
The Alberta government said since an average family doctor sees 22 patients per day, they believe a cap will not impact a vast majority of physicians.
The Primary Care Network said its clinic would remain open on weekends barring further government cuts.
MyMcMurray also reached out to Fort McMurray-Wood Buffalo MLA Tany Yao for comment.
