Our government has a longstanding commitment to accountability, especially in sectors like healthcare, where trust and the well-being of Albertans are vital. Our goal remains clear: to deliver the quality care that Albertans deserve while holding ourselves accountable for every dollar spent.
Some question our dedication to accountability, but this is simply not grounded in reality. Accountability is a core principle we uphold to honour Albertans' trust. This commitment shapes every decision we make, particularly in continuing care, where oversight and care quality are critical.
As the MLA for the Camrose constituency, I place high importance on accountability in continuing care. My riding has nearly double the provincial average of seniors, and when issues arise in long-term care centres, nursing homes, or other settings, families often reach out to me. Any lapse in care is a failure of trust, and that is something my colleagues and I take very seriously.
Our government’s oversight includes regular audits, inspections, and targeted investigations to ensure resources are allocated effectively and responsibly. In 2022, Alberta took significant steps to maintain oversight of continuing care facilities, guided by the Public Health Act and the coordinated Home Care Program Regulation. This regulation requires the regional health authority to deliver services according to high standards, from admissions to client records, across publicly funded healthcare. These standards underscore our commitment to safe, respectful care in nursing homes, home care, and other continuing care settings.
Our approach to healthcare audits has two aims: first, to ensure providers meet Alberta’s high standards, and second, to prevent the misuse of public funds. Routine audits and investigations help identify gaps, enforce corrective actions, and reinforce public trust by demonstrating our commitment to accountability.
In Budget 2024, we reinforced this commitment by allocating $1 billion over three years to improve continuing care. This funding will expand community-based care options, increase workforce capacity, promote innovation, and enhance quality. We have also committed $475 million to modernize primary healthcare, $6.6 billion to support physician compensation, and $287 million over four years to enhance mental health and addiction services, with targeted programs for youth, adults, and Indigenous communities.
Our commitment to accountability goes beyond funding. It includes proactive audits, investigations, and continuous improvements. When issues arise, we take swift corrective action, working with operators to meet standards and improve services. This approach isn’t just about compliance; it’s about reinforcing trust and ensuring that taxpayer dollars go directly toward quality care.
To those who question our commitment, our actions speak for themselves. Through transparent audits and consistent corrective measures, Alberta maintains its reputation as a province that prioritizes citizen well-being. We make audit findings and corrective actions publicly available, so Albertans can be confident that healthcare providers are held to the highest standards.
Accountability goes beyond enforcing rules; it builds trust and strengthens communities. Our government upholds Alberta’s values of independence, hard work, and commitment by ensuring efficient, responsible healthcare services.
Through rigorous audits, high standards, and transparent practices, we strive to keep Alberta’s healthcare system responsive and sustainable to all Albertans for the quality of care they rely on and deserve.
- MLA Jackie Lovely can be contacted at her constituency office located at #104, 4870 51 Street, Camrose AB, T4V 1S1, or by telephone at 780-672-0000.
