SAC-Alberta will continue to address provincial and federal developments in human health resources, with a focus on the systemic challenges impacting speech-language pathologists and audiologists. Advocacy efforts will highlight trends and issues contributing to workforce shortages, ensuring retention and recruitment efforts effectively support our professions.
SAC-Alberta recently met with Sharif Haji, Member of the Legislative Assembly (MLA) for Edmonton-Decore, to discuss the pressing challenges facing pediatric audiology services in Alberta.
The conversation emphasized the importance of early intervention as both an educational and developmental priority. The need for a strong province-wide strategy to support children with communication barriers and to ensure equitable access to timely audiology services was a central focus.
Throughout the meeting, advocacy efforts focused on three key priorities: stabilizing the workforce, cultivating local talent, and updating financial support systems. Specifically, SAC called for a comprehensive health workforce plan to improve the recruitment and retention of specialized audiologists, alongside the establishment of an Alberta-based training program to keep students within the province.
In addition, we urged for the modernization of Alberta Aids to Daily Living (AADL) funding benchmarks to reflect 2026 market costs, ensuring that private clinics remain capable of providing essential services to pediatric clients.
If you have questions regarding Alberta advocacy, please contact us at advocacy@sac-oac.ca.
HSAA members have officially ratified a new four-year collective agreement with Alberta Health Services. The agreement secures a 12% general wage increase (3% annually) through March 2028, with retroactive pay for 2024 and 2025 issued in December. Beyond the general increase, it also includes specialized wins for speech-language pathologists and audiologists, most notably an annual reimbursement of up to $504 for professional fees. The contract also strengthens professional support by increasing preceptor pay and guaranteeing three paid professional development days per year.
Crucially, as the provincial healthcare system restructures, the deal ensures the portability of seniority and benefits, providing members with much-needed stability and protection when transitioning to new provincial health agencies.
