Calgary's Healthcare Conundrum: Bridging the Gap Between Facilities and Access
Calgary boasts a comprehensive network of health clinics and hospitals, as detailed in the city's open data portal. The dataset not only includes essential addresses and locations but also underscores the city's commitment to transparency and innovation. However, despite this seemingly robust infrastructure, many Calgarians grapple with accessing timely medical care.
A persistent shortage of family doctors is a pressing concern, leading one in five Calgarians to rely on crowded emergency departments. Wait times in these units are alarmingly high, sometimes reaching 15 hours, exacerbated further by doubled wait times at walk-in clinics since 2023. This reflects a systemic bottleneck that physical facility presence alone cannot resolve.
Efforts by Alberta Health Services, including the Acute Care Action Plan, aim to alleviate pressures by adding hospital beds and increasing surgeries. Yet, opinions diverge. Proponents cite reduced ER wait times; critics argue solutions lag behind needs. The debate continues as Calgary navigates this complex landscape, balancing facility expansion with equitable access.
This Article Contains information licensed under the Open Government Licence – City of Calgary.
