Overview
- The program allows individuals to pay for MRIs, CT scans, x-rays and ultrasounds at participating private clinics without a doctor or nurse practitioner referral.
- If a preventative test finds a previously unknown cancer, patients can claim reimbursement at publicly funded rates and will be referred to Cancer Care Alberta for follow-up care.
- The rollout will be phased in through participating clinics over the coming weeks, and test results will be connected to electronic health records to reduce duplicated testing and support continuity of care.
- Officials say medically necessary, physician-referred testing will remain publicly funded and prioritized by clinical need so public care stays primary.
- The announcement includes targeted investments for oncofertility, screening, diagnostic imaging and wider cancer services, a move meant to expand diagnostic capacity and likely raise early detection and downstream demand for oncology care.