Alberta Health Services

Provincial health authority in Alberta, Canada

Alberta Health Services (AHS) is the single health authority for the Canadian province of Alberta. It is responsible for delivering health services to the population of Alberta and is the largest integrated provincial health care system in Canada.

Overview

Alberta Health Services was established in 2008, consolidating 12 formerly separate health entities, including nine regional health authorities, the Alberta Mental Health Board, the Alberta Cancer Board, and the Alberta Alcohol and Drug Abuse Commission. This integration was aimed at improving the efficiency and effectiveness of health service delivery across the province.

AHS provides a wide range of health services, including acute care, emergency medical services, mental health services, public health, and cancer care. The organization operates numerous facilities, including hospitals, clinics, and community health centers, and employs a diverse workforce of healthcare professionals, including doctors, nurses, and support staff.

Structure

Alberta Health Services is governed by a Board of Directors appointed by the Minister of Health. The President and CEO of AHS is responsible for the day-to-day operations and reports to the Board. The organization is divided into five geographic zones: North, Edmonton, Central, Calgary, and South, each with its own leadership team to manage local health services.

Zones

• North Zone: Covers the northern part of Alberta, including cities like Fort McMurray and Grande Prairie.
• Edmonton Zone: Encompasses the city of Edmonton and surrounding areas.
• Central Zone: Includes communities such as Red Deer and Lloydminster.
• Calgary Zone: Covers the city of Calgary and surrounding regions.
• South Zone: Includes areas like Lethbridge and Medicine Hat.

Services

AHS provides a comprehensive range of health services, including:

• Acute Care: Services provided in hospitals for patients with severe and urgent medical conditions.
• Emergency Medical Services (EMS): Provides pre-hospital emergency care and transportation.
• Mental Health and Addiction Services: Offers support and treatment for individuals with mental health issues and substance use disorders.
• Public Health: Focuses on disease prevention, health promotion, and health protection.
• Cancer Care: Provides screening, diagnosis, and treatment for cancer patients.

Innovation and Research

Alberta Health Services is involved in numerous research initiatives and partnerships with academic institutions. AHS supports clinical trials and research projects aimed at improving patient care and health outcomes. The organization also invests in innovative technologies and practices to enhance healthcare delivery.

Challenges and Future Directions

AHS faces several challenges, including managing the growing demand for healthcare services, addressing workforce shortages, and ensuring equitable access to care across the province. The organization is focused on strategic planning and innovation to meet these challenges and improve the health system's sustainability.

Related pages

• Healthcare in Canada
• Public health
• Emergency medical services in Canada
• Mental health in Canada

Alberta Health Services

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