Medicine in Alberta has come a long way, from the earliest medical practices of Indigenous peoples to the high-tech healthcare of today. When the region was first settled by European migrants, Alberta began evolving into one of Canada’s key centers for medical research. In this article, we explore the history of medicine in the province. More on iedmonton.net.
Early Beginnings
When the first European migrants arrived at the start of the 19th century, doctors from the North-West Mounted Police were already present. They laid the foundation of Alberta’s medical tradition, which later gained national prominence. Throughout their work, they encountered infectious diseases, typhoid, and countless injuries, building a solid reputation for handling a broad range of challenges.
In 1885, the completion of the transcontinental Canadian railway immediately influenced healthcare in the region. More doctors arrived. By 1889, the Alberta Medical Association was established to safeguard physicians and provide leadership in delivering high-quality medical care.
Railway executives financed the province’s first non-denominational hospital in Medicine Hat, soon filled with typhoid patients—a primary illness of that period. In 1896, the arrival of 6,000 Ukrainians who settled 100 kilometers from Edmonton sparked another wave of doctors relocating to the area.
By 1901, Alberta was still sparsely populated, with only about 73,000 residents (including Indigenous communities). Yet healthcare was progressing vigorously due to substantial challenges. Practitioners were increasingly required to have specialized training and licenses. Around the same time, group medical practices and small hospitals began appearing in Edmonton and surrounding areas. In 1908, the University of Alberta was founded, eventually serving as the region’s hub for medical education.
Alberta’s Doctors During World War I
Canadian field doctors in World War I parted ways with the British system. Two mobile ambulance units—Field Ambulance No. 8 and Field Ambulance No. 11—were established in Alberta to receive and treat injured soldiers. Alberta’s physicians again strengthened their global reputation and demonstrated a high level of professionalism.
Later Years
In 1921, the United Farmers of Alberta party took power and restructured the healthcare system, boosting stability and growth. Funding for medical services soared, rural dental programs expanded, and standards for medical practice improved. Care became more accessible to all social classes.
A key milestone was the introduction of public health insurance, while in the 1950s, Canada undertook a new round of health reforms.
From the 1980s onward, Alberta’s medical system became ever more focused on innovation and technology. New diagnostic and treatment methods emerged, along with advanced surgical techniques. Mortality and disease rates dropped significantly. However, this era also saw many doctors leaving the province, leading to ongoing staff shortages that persist to this day. The government regularly recruits foreign-trained physicians to address this issue.
The 21st Century
In the 21st century, Alberta’s healthcare continued evolving technologically while adapting to the demands of the modern world. The COVID-19 pandemic posed a major challenge. Quarantine zones were created, and healthcare capacity was expanded. Special attention was paid to the mental health of both healthcare providers and the general population.
To sum up, Alberta’s healthcare system has developed in response to each era’s unique issues. Local physicians have found solutions to problems such as disease outbreaks and high immigration waves. Despite repeated crises throughout its history, Alberta’s healthcare has achieved outstanding levels of proficiency in multiple medical fields.