By Canadian Press

Premier makes public health guarantee to counter NDP claims

Apr 11, 2023 | 3:43 PM

SHERWOOD PARK, AB – Premier Danielle Smith says her United Conservative Party will not make Albertans pay out of pocket to see their family doctor or get medical treatment.

Smith says her party will also not de-list from public funding any future medical procedures or prescriptions.

Smith says the pledge is to counter Opposition NDP accusations that Smith will eventually make Albertans pay out of pocket for basic services, like seeing a family doctor.

NDP health critic David Shepherd says his party is simply reminding people of Smith’s past remarks.

The NDP points to a policy paper Smith wrote in June 2021 for the University of Calgary.

WHAT'S ON

Here's what's on this weekend in Medicine Hat: March 13-15

Mar 13, 2026

WHAT'S ON

Here's what's on this weekend in Medicine Hat: March 6-8

Mar 06, 2026

Local Author

Former Medicine Hat resident Johnson set to showcase novel 'Chipped' at mall

Mar 06, 2026

In the paper, Smith says she wants to create health spending accounts to help get Albertans used to paying for services currently funded by medicare.

Health care is expected to be a key issue in the upcoming election campaign, which is set to begin May 1, with voters going to the polls May 29.

This report by The Canadian Press was first published April 11, 2023.

The Canadian Press