Navigating ACL Surgery Wait Times at Banff Mineral Springs Hospital
Banff ACL Surgery: Understanding Wait Times
Concerns are rising within the community regarding wait times for Anterior Cruciate Ligament (ACL) reconstruction at Banff Mineral Springs Hospital. A recent online post highlighted patient uncertainty after being told to expect contact “within 6 months,” sparking a demand for clearer information.
Navigating Alberta's Surgical System
Banff Mineral Springs Hospital does offer specialized orthopedic surgery, including ACL reconstruction, which aims to restore knee stability. Alberta Health Services (AHS) manages these surgical waitlists, with initiatives like the Alberta Surgical Initiative (ASI) targeting reductions. While anecdotal reports suggest waits varying from 4-5 months to over a year, official AHS data from April 2024 indicates the median wait from specialist assessment to knee surgery in Alberta was 20.9 weeks—approximately five months. Patients should note this differs from the average 59.9-week provincial wait for an initial surgeon consult. Surgical wait times can vary significantly by surgeon and clinic, with options available to patients, such as selecting the next available surgeon, potentially reducing their overall wait.
