Dedicated Health Care Pathway Brings International Talent to Alberta's Health Sector

Strengthening Alberta’s health care system remains a top priority for the provincial government, which has introduced the Dedicated Health Care Pathway under the Alberta Advantage Immigration Program (AAIP). This initiative was launched in April 2023 to attract experienced international health professionals to help alleviate the labour shortages in Alberta’s health sector.

Success of the Dedicated Health Care Pathway

The program has seen remarkable success in its first year and a half of operation. In 2023, 122 health care professionals were nominated, and by July 2024, that number had grown to 258. Significantly, the program is not just focused on urban centers like Calgary and Edmonton. In fact, of the 2023 nominations, 59 professionals were destined for smaller communities, including 19 physicians and 25 registered nurses. By mid-2024, 93 health professionals, including 14 physicians and 61 registered nurses, were headed to rural areas, strengthening health care access across the province.

These numbers illustrate the government’s focus on ensuring that health care services reach all Albertans, no matter where they live. More than 150 health professionals recruited through the program are expected to serve outside of Edmonton and Calgary.

Eligibility and Pathway Process

To qualify for the Dedicated Health Care Pathway, international health care professionals must meet specific criteria:

• They must have received authorization to practice in Alberta from the relevant regulatory college.
• They must also have a job offer within Alberta’s health care sector.

Once nominated by Alberta, these professionals can apply for permanent residence through the federal immigration system as provincial nominees. This pathway is designed to attract various professionals, including doctors, nurses, physiotherapists, and psychologists. Nine professions are eligible under this dedicated stream.

Government’s Commitment to Health Care Workforce

The Alberta government remains committed to addressing labour shortages in the health care sector. Muhammad Yaseen, Minister of Immigration and Multiculturalism, expressed pride in the success of the Dedicated Health Care Pathway, particularly noting the placement of professionals in rural areas. Minister Yaseen emphasized that the program is critical for increasing timely access to care for all Albertans.

Similarly, Adriana LaGrange, Minister of Health, highlighted the importance of recruiting and retaining health care workers through the Alberta Health Workforce Strategy. By reducing barriers and creating more opportunities, the province aims to not only attract international health professionals but also help them establish long-term careers and lives in Alberta.

Athana Mentzelopoulos, President and CEO of Alberta Health Services (AHS), also acknowledged the impact of the pathway. She pointed out that the program has been crucial in attracting international applicants, particularly trained nurses who bring the necessary skills and experience to meet Alberta’s current health care needs.

Broader Economic Benefits

The Dedicated Health Care Pathway is part of the larger Alberta Advantage Immigration Program, which addresses labour challenges across all sectors, not just health care. By attracting skilled professionals to fill critical roles, the program helps strengthen Alberta’s economy and ensure the province remains competitive and vibrant.