The Government of Alberta says its Dedicated Healthcare Pathway has lead to more healthcare professionals practicing in the province. (Photo: Pattison Media)

By David Opinko

New healthcare immigration pathway paying dividends for Alberta

Aug 8, 2024 | 11:27 AM

Nearly 400 healthcare professionals have been nominated to come to Alberta since the launch of a new immigration stream.

In April 2023, the Government of Alberta created a Dedicated Healthcare Pathway (DHP) through the Alberta Advantage Immigration Program. It aims to make it easier for healthcare workers from other parts of the world to come here to help address labour shortages.

The program saw 122 people being nominated in 2023, and in just the first half of 2024, an additional 258. Of those, more than 150 workers were nominated in communities outside of Calgary and Edmonton.

Minister of Immigration and Multiculturalism Muhammad Yaseen says it is great to see numbers this strong.

“I am proud of the incredible success of the Dedicated Health Care Pathway, and very pleased to see so many experienced health professionals going to areas outside of Calgary and Edmonton,” says Yaseen. “With this program, we are increasing timely access to care for Albertans, no matter where they live.”

Nighttime construction on Hwy 3 in Lethbridge starts April 17

Apr 17, 2025

SASHA launches #BuyABed fundraiser to support vulnerable Lethbridge residents

Apr 04, 2025

$20K grants available: TELUS STORYHIVE Pan-Asian Edition opens applications April 1

Mar 18, 2025

The DHP is for healthcare professionals who have received authorization to practice in Alberta and who have a job offer within Alberta’s healthcare sector. Once an applicant is nominated, they apply for permanent residence.

There are nine eligible professions under the DHP, including physicians, registered nurses, licensed practical nurses, nurse practitioners, physician assistants, occupational therapists, physiotherapists, clinical social workers and psychologists.

Health Minister Adriana LaGrange says the government is committed to recruiting and retaining healthcare workers by reducing barriers and improving opportunities.

“Through the Alberta Health Workforce Strategy, programs like the Dedicated Health Care Pathway provide solutions for those who come to work in health care in our province to stay and build a life here. We will continue to plan for the talent required to address Albertans’ existing and emerging health care needs,” says LaGrange.

More details on the DHP can be found on the Government of Alberta website.

A report from the College of Physicians and Surgeons of Alberta last month found that Lethbridge had a net increase of 27 physicians over the past year. It is unclear how many, if any, of these doctors took advantage of the Dedicated Healthcare Pathway.

READ MORE: Lethbridge adds 27 physicians over the last year

—

If you have a news tip, question or concern, please email Lethbridge.newsroom@Pattisonmedia.com.

For local news delivered daily to your email inbox, subscribe for free to the Lethbridge News Now newsletter here. You can also download the Lethbridge News Now mobile app in the Google Play and the Apple App Stores.