Statement on Alberta's Use of Notwithstanding Clause to Restrict Medical Care

EDMONTON – Health Sciences Association of Alberta President Mike Parker issued the following statement on behalf of health-care professionals in response to the Government of Alberta’s introduction of legislation that invokes the notwithstanding clause to limit the rights and personal medical choices of Albertans: 

“For the second time, the Government of Alberta has chosen to use the notwithstanding clause to remove Albertans’ rights, this time to restrict access to gender-affirming care for young people. This decision is deeply disappointing to HSAA members who work directly with transgender Albertans, including psychologists who often assess, support and guide individuals who are some of the most vulnerable patients in our health system. 

“These Albertans deserve a safe space to seek medical advice from frontline professionals who follow evidence, uphold national standards of care, and work every day to keep their patients safe and supported. Instead, politicians are stepping into the exam room and interfering in personal and private medical decisions between patients and health-care professionals. This has a chilling effect on our members, and risks harm to young people. 

“HSAA stands with our members, with Alberta’s broader medical community, and with young Albertans who deserve respect, safety and access to gender-affirming care.  

“We urge the Alberta Legislature to stop this bill. It has no place in a health-care system built on evidence, compassion, and the safety and well-being of every patient.”

-30- 

Media Inquiries:   
Matt Dykstra, Interim Manager, Communications 
780-224-9202 | mdykstra@hsaa.ca