March 2, 2026
RED FM News Desk
The Alberta government is investing $59 million over the next three years to enhance cardiac care and intensive care services in southern Alberta.
The funding will be directed to Chinook Regional Hospital in Lethbridge and Medicine Hat Regional Hospital in Medicine Hat, with the aim of expanding capacity and improving access to specialized treatment closer to home.
Premier Danielle Smith said the investment is part of the province’s broader strategy to reform Alberta’s health-care system.
“Since we first announced our plans to refocus health care in late 2023, we have been expanding capacity, cutting waste and sending more resources to the front line where they matter most,” Smith said.
She emphasized the urgency of cardiac care, noting that heart-related illnesses require immediate attention.
“Any illness involving the heart is a race against time,” Smith said. “The very last thing a patient needs is a long journey to a bigger, far away centre for treatment or diagnostic testing.
“We want to deliver faster interventions for Albertans in this situation and other situations of acute medical need.”
Smith added that Chinook Regional Hospital serves more than 150,000 residents in Lethbridge and surrounding communities. The province says the funding will help ensure patients in southern Alberta can receive timely, potentially life-saving care without having to travel long distances.
Loading ...
