What is Patients First?
Patients First is a non-partisan movement of more than 68,000 Albertans, created by the Alberta Medical Association to make sure patients have a real say in the future of health care. It exists because the decisions that shape access to family doctors, emergency care, and hospital services affect every Albertan, and those decisions are better when patients and physicians speak up together.
The Alberta Medical Association represents Alberta's physicians. Doctors contribute their experience of caring for patients and explain the challenges they see in clinics and hospitals. Patients bring their own experiences of seeking care. Both perspectives help elected representatives understand what needs to change.
Why we exist
We believe every Albertan deserves care they can count on: a family doctor who knows them, an emergency room that can see them, and timely care close to home. Right now, too many people are waiting, worrying, and going without.
Patients First exists to change that. We bring patients and physicians together because the people who live with health care decisions should have a hand in shaping them. Sharing those experiences helps decision-makers understand the changes patients and their families need.
We are non-partisan. We never tell anyone how to vote, and we don't campaign against any party. Our only side is the patient's, and we ask leaders of every stripe to put patients first.
How it works
1. Understand the issue
Explore the health care issues that matter to you and hear about other Albertans' experiences.
2. Sign up for updates
Receive updates about Alberta's health care system and opportunities to speak up about issues you care about.
3. Contact your MLA
Share what has happened to you or your family, and what you would like to change. Choose the issues that matter to you.
How your voice makes a difference
Your MLA represents the people who live in your area. A personal message about what happened to you or your family, and what you would like done, helps them understand how health care decisions affect their community.
When many Albertans describe similar concerns, it shows that an issue affects more than one family. You do not need to be an expert or use a prepared message. Your own experience is worth sharing.