Alberta government closing in on new deal to pay family doctors [Video]

The Alberta government says it’s closing in on a new deal for family doctor pay, but a physicians’ group says it must include those with small patient rosters.

The details of the framework announced Wednesday have yet to be hammered out, including specific rates. But the United Conservative government expects its new compensation model will make Alberta a leader in luring and keeping family doctors.

It comes after Premier Danielle Smith promised late last year to ensure every Albertan has a primary health provider by the next election, expected in 2027.

Alberta Medical Association president Dr. Paul Parks called the announcement “extremely positive,” but said doctors with smaller patient panels may stop offering important comprehensive care if they are left out.

“We don’t want that to happen,” he told The Canadian Press in an interview.

He added it’s too early to put a dollar figure on the deal, but said …