EDMONTON — Speaking at a press conference in Edmonton late last week, Prime Minister Mark Carney said that new bilateral agreements with remaining provinces and territories would be finalized “as quickly and equitably as possible.” These comments follow months of uncertainty as to the future of national Pharmacare, as result of multiple remarks from the Prime Minister and Federal Health Minister Marjorie Michel refusing to commit to the continued implementation of the program—including as recently as last week.

EDMONTON – With the federal Liberal caucus meeting for their pre-session retreat in Edmonton this week, Friends of Medicare is joining the Canadian Health Coalition and allies from Alberta and across Canada for a rally to call on the Federal Government to keep their promise to implement and expand a national Pharmacare plan.

EDMONTON — As Albertans’ anxiety grows over the rising cost of living — including how new tariffs could impact their employment, health benefits, drug costs, and pocketbooks — the federal government is creating uncertainty about whether they intend to fulfill their promise to deliver much-needed relief when it comes to expanding federal dental care coverage, and bringing down drug costs via a national public drug plan.

EDMONTON — Every year, November 20 is the Transgender Day of Remembrance. It is a day to mourn, remember and honour those who have lost their lives due to transphobia and anti-transgender violence.

EDMONTON — Yesterday, Premier Danielle Smith’s government tabled new legislation that includes major new restrictions on access to gender-affirming health care. If passed, this legislation will infringe on the rights of transgender, non-binary, Two-Spirit and gender diverse Albertans to access the health care services they need, when they need them.

EDMONTON — Every year, September 26th marks World Contraception Day, raising awareness about the importance of contraception and reproductive health care. As we recognize the day this year, Bill 6-64:An Act Representing Pharmacare, is being studied by a Senate committee, and still waiting to be passed into law. Bill C-64 would ensure universal coverage of diabetes and contraceptive medications.

EDMONTON — Yesterday, Premier Danielle Smith announced a widely condemned new policy that includes putting new restrictions on gender-affirming health care. The new policy infringes on the rights of young Albertans and their families to access the health care services they need, when they need them.

Recent responses from Alberta politicians make it clear Alberta isn’t immune from the politics that seek to roll back the right to choose.

The recent decision by the United States Supreme Court to overturn Roe vs Wade has put a spotlight on the right to choose and access abortion services here in Canada, leading many Albertans to worry. 

“While the US Supreme Court decision doesn’t directly change any laws here, Albertans are right to be concerned,” said Chris Gallaway, executive director of Friends of Medicare. “The comments many Alberta politicians have been making since this court decision make it clear that there is a coordinated political movement seeking to roll back the right to choose here.”

This morning, Health Canada approved Canadian Blood Services’ request to end the 3-month deferral period for men who have sex with men, effectively lifting the ban on their ability to donate blood and plasma.

Alberta still has a long way to go to achieve gender equality

Gender remains an important social determinant of health—We know that gender-based discrimination and ongoing gender inequality in our society results in increased health risks and poorer outcomes. Far too many Albertans still do not have proper access to reproductive and sexual health care, or gender-affirming health care.