Alberta Health Agency Faces Allegations of Government Interference in Private Contracts

A wrongful dismissal lawsuit by Alberta's former health CEO alleges political pressure, misuse of public funds, and inflated costs in private healthcare deals.

• Former Alberta Health Services CEO Athana Mentzelopoulos claims she was pressured to approve costly private surgery contracts and was advised to involve the RCMP in her investigation.
• Mentzelopoulos alleges government officials influenced health authority contracts, including ties to businessman Sam Mraiche, who benefited from lucrative deals and political connections.
• Documents reveal private surgical facilities negotiated rates significantly higher than public costs, with some procedures costing over double the public system's rates.
• Auditor-General and external reviews are underway to investigate procurement practices at Alberta Health Services and potential government involvement.
• Calls for a public inquiry and accountability grow as opposition leaders and unions criticize the handling of healthcare privatization and alleged profiteering.

3 Articles

rabble.ca The Globe and Mail Global News