East Kootenay Regional Hospital in Cranbrook, B.C. (Image Credit: Interior Health)

By Alyssa Conti

B.C. border communities renew surgery care partnership with Alberta

Mar 6, 2026 | 12:41 PM

British Columbia residents living next door to Alberta may now be able to get speedy surgical services again, after the renewal of a health care partnership between the two provinces.

The partnership, which allows B.C. patients to consider having their scheduled surgery in the neighbouring province, took effect on Sunday, March 1.

“This partnership between our two provinces showcases how interconnected our communities are,” said Minister of Health Josie Osborne. “This is great news, especially for people living close to the Alberta border, who will now be able to access surgical care closer to home.”

Those seeking surgery care will need to consult an Alberta-based doctor as part of the referral process. 

“Collaboration across provinces means more people can receive the surgeries and support they need without facing long travel or delays. […] I’m grateful for our ability to work together to help people access care when they need it,” said Brittny Anderson, MLA for Kootenay-Central.

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The temporary hiatus on out-of-province scheduled surgeries was first enacted in 2021, during the COVID-19 pandemic.