News Release
Budget 2026: Focused on strengthening acute care
Budget 2026, if passed, will invest $13.8 billion to strengthen Alberta’s hospital and surgical services.
As Alberta’s population continues to grow and age, demand on our acute care system is increasing. If passed, Budget 2026 will invest $13.8 billion in 2026-27, an increase of $1.7 billion over 2025-26. This funding growth exceeds population and inflation. It expands hospital-based services and reduces wait times through enhanced funding for surgeries, cancer care, emergency services and diagnostics.
In addition, the Hospital and Surgical Health Services three-year capital plan totals more than $1.4 billion. It supports major hospital maintenance and upgrades in both urban and rural areas of the province and includes significant investments in diagnostic imaging, medical device reprocessing, and the purchasing and upgrading of the Emergency Health Services fleet.
The funding includes:
$315 million to strengthen rural and remote hospitals, bringing care closer to more Albertans.
An additional $63 million over two years to support the planning and implementation of developing shelled and vacant spaces, increasing hospital capacity and improving patient flow.
$330 million in capital funding over three years to support faster, safer surgeries at medical device reprocessing departments.
“Budget 2026 takes decisive action to relieve pressures on Alberta’s health care system, providing health professionals with the resources and infrastructure needed to deliver timely, high-quality care for all Albertans.”
Matt Jones, Minister of Hospital and Surgical Health Services
“Budget 2026 is focused on what matters to Albertans and that includes investing in the people and hospitals that deliver care when it’s needed most. This historic $13.8 billion commitment ensures Albertans have timely access to high-quality health services.”
Nate Horner, President of Treasury Board and Minister of Finance
“Budget 2026 will strengthen acute care delivery across the province and improve access while reducing wait times for Albertans.”
David Diamond, interim COO and CEO, Acute Care Alberta
By prioritizing both people and infrastructure, Alberta’s government is building a stronger acute care system that ensures timely access and better outcomes for Albertans today and into the future. Budget 2026 is focused on what matters, makes disciplined choices, and takes decisive action.
Key facts
2026 allocates $525 million over three years through the Acute Care Action Plan to deliver 50,000 additional surgeries over the same period.
This builds on the 330,000 procedures expected to be performed in 2026-27.
A record 318,920 surgeries were completed in 2024-25.
Pinoy Edmonton News 