QUESTION PERIOD — Health
Canada Health Act
November 25, 2025
Senator Moreau, yesterday the Government of Alberta tabled Bill 11, the Health Statutes Amendment Act, which would enable a dual-practice model allowing some surgeons and specialists to operate in both the public and private systems. This bill creates a new class of flexibly participating physicians who can decide on a patient-by-patient basis whether to bill the province or to charge patients privately.
The Canada Health Act is clear. Medically necessary or medically required services must be fully insured by the provincial or territorial plan for that jurisdiction to receive its full federal cash contribution.
Will the federal government review Alberta’s Bill 11 for potential non-compliance with the Canada Health Act? What immediate steps will it take to ensure that medically necessary care will be based on need and not the ability to pay?
You’re raising an important question. I will raise the issue with the minister. She is probably aware of the Alberta legislation which has been tabled. I’ll get back to you about whether action will be taken by the federal government on that specific point.
I did not understand from your question whether the legislation has already been adopted. It was only tabled recently, so we will surely monitor the evolution of that piece of legislation, whether or not it is implemented. Therefore, the Government of Canada will advise on whether or not it is implemented as a matter of fact.
Thank you, Senator Moreau. It was tabled yesterday.
We’ve seen instances in the past in which federal deductions under the Canada Health Act were minimal, delayed or insufficient to deter provinces from introducing measures that test its limits. Dual practice models risk diverting surgeons and specialists into paid private work, leaving those who cannot pay with no option but to wait longer.
Will the federal government commit to a stricter enforcement of the Canada Health Act?
As I mentioned, since the bill has been tabled yesterday, I’m convinced that we will monitor this situation closely, and I will be able to advise whether the legislation goes forward and is adopted by the Government of Alberta.
