At the end of the month Albertans will be able to book some diagnostic imaging tests without a referral from a health-care provider — but they’ll have to pay themselves.
Starting July 31, the province’s Patient Choice Self-Referral program will allow patients to access private MRI, CT, ultrasound and X-ray exams through accredited facilities. Premier Danielle Smith says the program will give Albertans more options for preventive health testing while supporting the public health-care system.
Health Minister Justin Wright says publicly funded diagnostic imaging will continue to be prioritized, and the new option will not reduce access to medically necessary tests.
Availability will reportedly vary as facilities introduce the program.
