Dear Premier: A Simple Fix for Calgary’s ER Comfort Crisis

Hey Calgary! Ever spent hours in an ER with nothing but a stiff chair for company? You're not alone. And one Calgarian is making sure Premier Smith hears about it.

​A recent open letter from Frank Fu, a local resident, has thrown a spotlight on a surprisingly critical issue: the sheer physical discomfort of waiting in Alberta’s emergency rooms. Imagine dealing with the flu, body pain, or—in Fu’s case—a cervical spine condition, while enduring rigid, unforgiving metal chairs for five or more hours. Ouch, right?

​Fu’s suggestion is simple but powerful: upgrade to ergonomic, cushioned seating—like those comfortable, supportive ones you see in airport lounges or train stations. He argues this small environmental improvement would greatly ease patient suffering during the inevitable, lengthy waits that plague our strained system.

​While new chairs won't solve staffing shortages or ambulance bottlenecks, this suggestion aligns perfectly with the Premier's massive push to restructure Alberta’s healthcare system and make it more "patient-centered." Recent studies in Alberta have shown that a patient's perception of compassion is actually the single greatest predictor of overall quality care ratings—even surpassing wait times in some measures.

​Fu’s practical plea cuts through the political debates about privatization and governance, asking for a fundamental, humane change. When our healthcare system is under this much stress, making the waiting environment more bearable is a vital step toward restoring public trust and demonstrating that patients are seen as people, not just numbers.

​So, next time you’re settling into a rigid seat at a Calgary ER, know that voices like Frank’s are advocating for a more humane experience.