The Government of Alberta is touting a record-breaking investment in doctors as part of Budget 2026–27.
Premier Danielle Smith announced Monday the province will spend $7.7 billion on physician recruitment, training and compensation, a 22 per cent increase over last year. The funding includes $7.3 billion for physician services, $450 million for recruitment and education, and $15 million for additional supports.
According to the College of Physicians and Surgeons of Alberta, Alberta had 13,008 registered physicians at the end of 2025, up 796 from the year before. Smith said the province is adding doctors faster than population growth.
Health Minister Adriana LaGrange said the province is also working with the Alberta Medical Association on a new primary care compensation model, with negotiations set to begin in March.
However, critics question whether the funding will translate into better access to family doctors, noting recent reports that Alberta has fewer physicians per capita than a decade ago.
The announcement comes as hospitals recover from a challenging flu season marked by long ER wait times and capacity pressures.
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