The last of Alberta's four health agencies will be operational in the fall. Here's who is in charge and what each agency does
Recovery Alberta provides services for Albertans in need of both mental health and addiction support including counselling and bed-based treatment.
Assisted Living Alberta, once operational, will provide support for older adults, people with disabilities and vulnerable Albertans with accessing services including continuing care homes, community care and social services.
In mid-May, Alberta Premier Danielle Smith restructured her government's cabinet for the first time since winning the election in 2023, breaking up the role of health minister into four new roles to reflect the government's four new health agencies.
Former health minister Adriana LaGrange became the minister of primary and preventive health services, which will oversee Primary Care Alberta. LaGrange will also be overseeing the restructuring changes.
Hospital and Surgical Services Minister Matt Jones will oversee Acute Care Alberta.
Rick Wilson became the minister of mental health and addiction and will oversee Recovery Alberta. Jason Nixon becomes minister of assisted living and social services, overseeing Assisted Living Alberta.
Alberta is currently without a permanent chief medical officer of health (CMOH) with Dr. Sunil Sookram currently serving as the interim CMOH as of April 18. He was appointed to the role days after Dr. Mark Joffe's contract expired.
Joffe was in the role on an interim basis after the province followed through on its 2022 commitment to fire Dr. Deena Hinshaw, who held the position throughout the COVID-19 pandemic.
When asked about where the search is for a new permanent CMOH, the ministry of primary and preventative health services said in a statement to Postmedia that the government is 'fully committed' to finding the 'right person to fill the role' and will have more to say once a successful candidate is found.
'The role of chief medical officer of health is critical to the health and safety of all Albertans. The recruitment process for a permanent CMOH is ongoing, and we are dedicated to selecting a candidate with the experience, leadership, and qualifications necessary to guide the province's public health efforts,' the statement said.
'Alberta's government remains vigilant in its approach to measles and other public health concerns. We are committed to ensuring clear information and resources are available to help Albertans protect themselves.'
— With files from The Canadian Press
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