Access to diagnostic healthcare services remains one of the top concerns for residents across the Lakeland, according to Bonnyville–Cold Lake–St. Paul MLA Scott Cyr.

In a recent Member’s Statement in the Alberta Legislature, Cyr called for expanded access to MRI and CT imaging services in northeastern Alberta, saying rural residents should not have to travel long distances for essential diagnostic care.

“Residents in rural and northeastern Alberta deserve access to high-quality healthcare services closer to home, just like families living in larger urban centres,” Cyr said.

Long travel times add stress for families

Cyr said many patients currently face hours of travel to larger centres for scans and specialist appointments — something he says becomes even more difficult during winter driving conditions.

“When families are already dealing with uncertainty surrounding their health… the last thing they should have to worry about is spending hours on the highway,” he said.

He added that travel can place added stress on patients and families already coping with serious health concerns.

Growing demand across the region

According to Cyr, northeastern Alberta’s growing population and regional healthcare needs continue to increase demand for local diagnostic imaging capacity.

He pointed to a regional catchment area of more than 73,000 people as evidence that expanded MRI and CT services would have a significant impact.

“Improved local access to MRI and CT technology would be a major step forward for healthcare in our region,” he said.

Supporting rural healthcare capacity

Cyr also highlighted the role stronger healthcare infrastructure plays in attracting families, workers and investment to rural communities.

“Strong rural healthcare is essential not only for current residents, but also for attracting families, workers, and investment to our communities long term,” he said.

Healthcare remains top issue for residents

Healthcare access continues to be one of the most common concerns raised by constituents throughout the Lakeland, according to Cyr.

He said he plans to continue advocating for improved healthcare infrastructure and expanded services across the region.

The comments come as communities across northeastern Alberta continue pushing for improved rural healthcare access, including expanded local diagnostics, specialist services and reduced travel times for patients.