| Medically required DI services, such as x-rays, ultrasounds and fluoroscopies referred by chiropractors, physiotherapists and audiologists will now be insured under the Alberta Health Care Insurance Plan.
Our quest to regain publicly funded diagnostic imaging began with meetings with Minister Copping beginning in December 2021.
In the early days of these conversations, we knew we had to incorporate the voice of Albertans. We did so by commissioning an Ipsos Public Opinion Poll where 82 per cent of Albertans feel chiropractors should have access to publicly funded diagnostic imaging.
We then asked Dr. Pierre Côté to provide an Alberta specific analysis of Statistics Canada Data on the healthcare needs of Albertans who suffer from musculoskeletal conditions. We combined these two pieces of research and submitted a report to Minister Copping on Building the Case for Publicly Funded Diagnostic Imaging for Chiropractors.
We were thrilled to have the support from Dr. Warren the Chair of the Alberta Medical Association and the leadership team for reinstatement of public funded diagnostic imaging for Alberta Chiropractors, and the opportunity to ensure a path forward with team-based care.
We will ensure to share all information on next steps when it becomes available. This change only applies to DI services that chiropractors, physiotherapists, and audiologists are eligible to refer for, such as x-rays, ultrasounds and fluoroscopies. DI services such as CT scans and MRIs are not impacted by this change.
Alberta Health is working on updating the billing system to operationalize this change. A Medical Bulletin will be issued when information technology changes are complete. |
