How will Alberta's $85-million health care reorganization work?

Under the “four pillars” of the UCP government’s “refocused” health ministry, the three main health sectors outside of mental health and addiction — acute care, primary care, and continuing care — could each have a “sector minister”

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The new $85-million provincial health system reorganization was partially rolled out Tuesday with the proposed Health Statutes Amendment Act (HSAA) legislation, revealing one key player with multiple roles, and promising “critical improvements to transparency and accountability.”

How will Alberta's $85-million health care reorganization work? Back to video

Three hats for LaGrange

Under the “four pillars” of the UCP government’s “refocused” health ministry, the three main health sectors outside of mental health and addiction — acute care, primary care, and continuing care — could each have a “sector minister.”

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However, come the fall, all three health roles will be inhabited by Alberta Health Minister Adriana LaGrange, who reports to Premier Danielle Smith.

The province’s chief medical officer of health reports to the health minister as well.

Wearing all the hats, LaGrange may decide which types of health services are to be delivered in her health services sectors, determine the organizations’ structures, and the management functions of the Provincial Health Agencies (PHA).

The three health PHAs will deliver health services or arrange for the delivery of health services, evaluate and adjust health service delivery to meet the needs of Albertans across the province, and implement plans to address system priorities, as set by LaGrange as health minister.

The PHAs will be established by LaGrange through a ministerial order and in consultation with herself as health minister.

As sector minister for the three pillars, LaGrange also has the authority to make appointments among a PHA’s governing members, designating a chair or vice chair.

As both health minister and acting as a minister for each sector, she can require the PHA or Regional Health Authority (RHA) to prepare plans, including health and operational plans, and review the PHA’s or RHA’s policies relating to their internal decision-making and delegation processes. She can also establish committees to provide advice and recommendations to the PHA or RHA, and appoint committee members.

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