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By rdnewsNOW staff

150 members

Provincial government forms 14 regional councils to offer input on local health care

Jul 14, 2025 | 3:20 PM

The Alberta government has announced the creation of 14 new regional advisory councils that will allow residents to offer input on how healthcare is implemented in their communities.

The councils are made up of 150 members from 71 communities throughout the province who will advise Alberta’s four health ministries and health agencies — Primary Care Alberta, Acute Care Alberta, Assisted Living Alberta and Recovery Alberta.

This is expected to give residents of the province an opportunity to give input and put a voice to the unique needs and local priorities of their communities on how to improve the health care system.

The province says each council will explore solutions to local challenges and identify opportunities for the health system to better support community decision-making.

“By hearing first-hand community feedback directly, we can build a system that is more responsive, more inclusive and ultimately more effective for everyone,” said Adriana LaGrange, Minister of Primary and Preventative Health Services. “I am looking forward to hearing the councils’ insights, perspectives and solutions to improve health care in all corners of our province.”

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Members of the councils includes people from all walks of life including health care workers, community leaders, Indigenous and municipal representatives, and others.

According to the government, about one-third of members work in health care, and more than half of the council chairs are health professionals. Almost one-quarter are elected municipal officials, including 10 serving as chairs or vice-chairs. Ten of the councils also include a representative from a local health foundation.

“Every community has unique needs, especially when it comes to seniors and vulnerable populations,” said Jason Nixon, Minister of Assisted Living and Social Services. “These regional advisory councils will help us better understand those needs and ensure that assisted living services are shaped by the people who rely on them.”

Officials say council members will share local and regional perspectives on health care to help make sure their communities priorities are being met.

By engaging with residents, providers and organizations, it’s expected they will gather feedback, identify challenges and bring forward ideas that may not otherwise reach government.

“As Primary Care Alberta works to improve access to primary health care services and programs across Alberta, we are grateful to have the opportunity to tap into a dedicated group of community leaders and representatives,” said Kim Simmonds, CEO, Primary Care Alberta. “These people know their communities and local needs, and we look forward to learning from their experiences and knowledge as we shape the future of primary care in Alberta.”

Indigenous Advisory Council

The provincial government is working with Indigenous leaders across the province to create an Indigenous Advisory Council to strengthen health care services for First Nation, Métis and Inuit communities.

Officials say there will be 22 members who will represent the community including Indigenous health care workers, community leaders, and individuals receiving health care services.

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