Blog

There is an important distinction between patient engagement and broader public or citizen engagement in health care decision-making. While both perspectives have value, patients and caregivers bring lived experience and knowledge that the general public cannot. As governments and health organizations explore new approaches to involving Canadians in decisions about medicines, pharmacare and health policy, we need to be clear about whose perspectives are being sought and for what purpose, and ensure that broader public engagement does not dilute or replace meaningful patient engagement.

May 2021... Many Albertans face daily challenges associated with mental, physical or emotional health, and often combinations of all three. To fill the gaps in coverage, unpaid family and friends – like you, or someone you know – are called upon; or more typically, thrust into the role of a caregiver.

February 2021… The Health Coalition of Alberta (HCA) has been very busy this year providing input into the two provincial government reviews of continuing care.

January 2021... In support of Bell Let's Talk Day on January 28, 2021, we feature a guest blog from one of our members, Families supporting Adults with Mental Illness - Alberta (FAMI-Alberta). 

December 2020... The Government of Canada released a federal fiscal update on Nov. 30, providing additional details on some of the commitments made in September’s Speech from the Throne.

November 2020… There have been a number of media stories this fall that highlight issues Albertans have with accessing care in this province.

October 2020… The Health Coalition of Alberta is working in partnership with Dementia Network Calgary to bring forward concerns Albertans have with continuing care.

September 2020… There have been several funding announcements made by the Alberta Government as well as some updates on continuing care reviews.

August 2020… The Health Coalition of Alberta worked with several of our members to launch a training program for family care partners to ensure that long-term care operators, residents and families feel confident with July’s changes in continuing care access orders.

July 2020… Welcome to one of the Health Coalition of Alberta’s newest members, the Psychologists’ Association of Alberta (PAA). Their Disaster Response Network members are offering pro-bono help to Albertans who are experiencing distress due to the pandemic.