Jacqui Holmes has always enjoyed an active lifestyle. Exercise, reading, cooking, and travelling were all part of the retirement she had been looking forward to. But everything changed when she was rear-ended in a motor vehicle accident (MVA).

As a result, Jacqui experienced relentless pain in her arms, legs, and neck and began suffering from migraine headaches. Frustrated and still in pain, she took the advice of a friend and decided to see a chiropractor.

Jacqui booked an appointment with Dr. Joseph Tanti, at Riverbend Chiropractic and Wellness. Within the first few minutes of her initial visit, she felt reassured. Her recovery and well-being were clearly the priority. Dr. Tanti took the time to listen to her concerns, explain what might be causing her symptoms, and outline a clear treatment plan.

For Jacqui, one of the most important aspects of her care was the ability to heal naturally, without medications to manage her pain. Through chiropractic treatment, she began seeing improvements relatively quickly. Over time, her pain decreased, her mobility returned, and she was able to resume the activities she loved.

A New Approach: Care First

Beginning in January 2027, Alberta will introduce a new Care-first automobile insurance system designed to prioritize treatment and recovery. The goal is simple: ensure that Albertans receive the care they need when they need it.

This patient-centred approach also recognizes the important role that healthcare providers play in recovery, including chiropractors. Chiropractic care is safe and effective. Chiropractors are leaders in rehabilitation and integrated into Alberta’s public healthcare system.

Dr. Jacqueline Boyd, Chair of the Chiropractic Association of Alberta, emphasizes the value of chiropractic care within this new system: “Chiropractors play a crucial role in helping accident victims recover and restore their quality of life. In Alberta, the new system will ensure that those needing care after a collision receive immediate, high-quality chiropractic services and team-based care.”

Chiropractors are often among the first healthcare professionals people see after an MVA. They assess injuries, develop individualized treatment plans, and provide hands-on evidence-based care that can reduce pain, improve mobility, and support the body’s natural healing processes. By integrating chiropractic care into a care-first model, patients can access effective treatment earlier, often leading to better outcomes.

Putting Patients First

At its core, Alberta’s Care-first reform is about putting people first.

Albertans injured in MVAs will have access to medical care, rehabilitation services, income support, and retirement benefits, potentially for life, depending on the severity of their injuries. Individuals who are unable to work or attend school because of their injuries may also qualify for ongoing support.

Permanent impairment benefits will be available for those who experience lasting injuries, and death benefits will support families who lose a loved one.

The Honourable Nate Horner, President of Treasury Board and Minister of Finance, summarized the intent behind the reform:

“Care-first is a term we use intentionally, because Albertans who are injured in a collision truly need their care and well-being to come first. Our goal is to build a stronger auto insurance system to better protect Albertans and their pocketbook.”

For patients like Jacqui, and for countless others who may experience an injury after a MVA, the new model represents a significant shift. By prioritizing timely treatment, reducing legal barriers, and recognizing the important role of healthcare providers such as chiropractors, Alberta’s Care-first model aims to help injured individuals move more quickly from collision to comeback.

Click on the link for more information on Alberta’s upcoming Care-first automobile insurance reforms.