News Release

1996-38
May 30, 1996

Federal Health Minister praises Alberta decision to preserve equal access to insured services

OTTAWA - Health Minister David Dingwall today welcomed the Alberta government's decision to ensure equal access for all Albertans to medically necessary services.

Earlier today, Alberta Health Minister, Shirley McClellan announced that effective July 1, 1996, private clinics in Alberta will not be allowed to charge patients a facility fee while at the same time billing the physician fee to the Alberta Health Care Insurance Plan.

"This issue was about fairness", said Mr. Dingwall. "Alberta's decision today demonstrates that the Canada Health Act is flexible in ensuring that Canadians, regardless of their ability to pay, have universal access to medically necessary services wherever they are provided."

The Minister emphasized that the federal, provincial and territorial governments are committed to preserving this principle as a cornerstone of the Canada Health Act. "This is what a great majority of Canadians consistently support," said Mr. Dingwall.

The Canada Health Act stipulates that the full cost of services deemed medically necessary by a province must be covered by public health insurance.

For information:
Franca Gatto
Minister's Press Secretary
(613) 957-0200