Nearly 400 Alberta Specialist Doctors Show Interest in New Dual-Practice Surgery Model

Nearly 400 specialist doctors in Alberta have expressed interest in participating in the province’s new dual-practice system, which will allow physicians to work within the public health-care system while also providing private services for selected surgeries, including hip and knee replacements.

Although the legislation enabling the model is now in place, the office of Surgical Services Minister Adriana LaGrange said doctors must complete a formal application process before any private surgeries can begin.

The first dual-practice surgeries are expected to take place this fall, following a review of government requirements and designated working hours.

According to the College of Physicians and Surgeons of Alberta, the province has about 550 registered surgical specialists, including 272 orthopedic surgeons.

The new system has also triggered strong political and professional opposition at both the provincial and national levels. Canadian Medical Association President Dr. Bogi Ogunyemi said systemic shortcomings are pushing physicians to seek alternative pathways, while urging federal Health Minister Marjorie Michel to intervene to ensure compliance with the law.