There have been many services that have not been covered for decades. Here is a list of services to provide you with examples. For more information on what is NOT covered, visit the following websites:

Alberta Health Care https://www.alberta.ca/ahcip-what-is-covered

Alberta Doctors: https://www.albertadoctors.org/practice/physician-compensation/uninsured-services/

1. Psychological Services:

1. • Private Payment Required: Therapy sessions, psychological assessments, and counselling provided by psychologists are not covered. Private payment allows individuals to access mental health care promptly, reducing wait times and improving mental health outcomes.
2. Dental Services:
   • Private Payment Required: Routine dental care, including exams, cleanings, fillings, and extractions, is not covered by AHS or AHCIP. Specialized dental procedures, such as orthodontics, are also not covered. Access to private dental care helps prevent oral health issues from escalating.
3. Vision Care:
   • Private Payment Required: Eye exams, glasses, and contact lenses for individuals aged 19-64 are not covered by AHS or AHCIP. Private optometry services allow for early detection and treatment of vision problems, reducing the likelihood of more severe issues.
4. Prescription Drugs:
   • Private Payment Required: Most prescription medications are not covered except for certain groups (e.g., seniors, low-income individuals). Private payment or insurance is necessary to obtain these medications, ensuring that chronic conditions are managed effectively.
5. Physiotherapy:
   • Private Payment Required: While physiotherapy provided in hospitals may be covered, community-based or private clinic physiotherapy is not. Accessing private physiotherapy can accelerate recovery from injuries and surgeries, improving long-term mobility and reducing disability.
6. Chiropractic Services:
   • Private Payment Required: Chiropractic care, including treatments for back pain and musculoskeletal issues, is not covered. Private access allows individuals to manage pain and physical health without relying on the public system.
7. Massage Therapy:
   • Private Payment Required: Massage therapy is not covered by AHS or AHCIP. Paying privately for massage therapy can aid in pain management and stress reduction, enhancing overall well-being.
8. Hearing Aids and Audiology Services:
   • Private Payment Required: Hearing aids and many audiology services, such as hearing tests for adults, are not covered. Private payment allows for timely access to hearing aids, improving communication and quality of life.
9. Fertility Treatments:
   • Private Payment Required: Fertility treatments, including in vitro fertilization (IVF), are not covered by AHS or AHCIP. Private fertility services can help couples pursue family planning without long delays.
10. Medical Aesthetics:
    • Private Payment Required: Procedures like Botox, laser treatments, and cosmetic surgeries are not covered. Accessing these services privately allows individuals to address aesthetic concerns without burdening the public healthcare system.
11. Naturopathic and Holistic Medicine:
    • Private Payment Required: Naturopathic consultations, acupuncture, and herbal medicine are not covered. These alternative treatments can complement traditional medicine and are available through private providers.
12. Private Diagnostic Imaging and Laboratory Services:
    • Private Payment Required: While basic imaging and lab tests are covered, specialized or expedited services through private clinics are not. Private payment can provide quicker access to diagnostic results, leading to faster treatment.
13. Ambulance Services:
    • Private Payment Required: In Alberta, while AHS covers part of the cost of ambulance services, there is often a fee for patients. This fee is typically out-of-pocket unless covered by private insurance.
14. Home Care Supplies and Equipment:
    • Private Payment Required: Many supplies and equipment needed for home care, such as walkers, wheelchairs, and incontinence supplies, are not covered. Private payment ensures access to necessary home care resources.
15. Non-Emergency Medical Transportation:
    • Private Payment Required: Transportation for non-emergency medical appointments, such as specialized treatments outside one’s local area, is not covered. Patients must pay privately or use insurance for these services.

By offering private services, healthcare providers can alleviate the burden on Alberta Health Services by reducing the demand for public healthcare, which in turn can shorten wait times for those who rely solely on the public system. This approach also enhances health outcomes by ensuring timely access to necessary care.

Alberta Health Services (AHS) is the provincial health authority responsible for delivering health care across Alberta. While AHS provides a broad range of health services, there are several services and treatments that are not covered under the Alberta Health Care Insurance Plan (AHCIP) or by Alberta Health Services. These non-covered services require individuals to pay out-of-pocket or through private insurance.