Alberta's government is making a record-breaking $800 million investment over the next eight years to enhance cancer care, partnering with Siemens Healthineers and the Alberta Cancer Foundation.
The initiative aims to improve outcomes, reduce wait times, and establish the province as a leader in cancer research and innovation.
“This investment will position our province as a leader in cancer care by leveraging artificial intelligence, attracting health care professionals and supporting researchers in developing innovative cancer care solutions,” said Premier Danielle Smith on Friday.
The value partnership will replace and upgrade oncology treatment equipment, integrate artificial intelligence into cancer treatment, and create two centres of excellence dedicated to oncology care and research.
Siemens Healthineers will contribute $175 million to support these advancements, which are expected to reduce emergency department visits for oncology cases by 30% and cut cancer treatment wait times by 50%.
One of the major technological breakthroughs will be the introduction of an artificial intelligence-enabled treatment unit. This technology could shorten the time between consultation and treatment from two weeks to as little as two hours, allowing more patients to receive care sooner.
“This partnership will reduce wait times and patient expenses while increasing capacity across the health care system,” said Adriana LaGrange, Minister of Health.
The Learning Centre of Excellence in Cancer Care, to be housed at the Arthur J.E. Child Comprehensive Cancer Centre in Calgary, will be Canada’s first global oncology training and reference site, offering both in-person and virtual training opportunities.
Meanwhile, the Artificial Intelligence Centre of Excellence in Cancer Care, to be based in Edmonton, will use data science to enhance cancer treatment and operations.
In addition to technological advancements, the partnership will establish a $48 million medical research and innovation fund to attract global talent, jointly funded by Siemens Healthineers and the Alberta Cancer Foundation.
“This is a major leap forward for cancer care in Alberta and will fuel vital cancer research,” said Wendy Beauchesne, CEO of the Alberta Cancer Foundation.
Further supporting cancer diagnostics, Alberta’s Budget 2025, if passed, will allocate $168 million over three years for the Diagnostic Imaging Enhancements Program, which includes purchasing cancer-specific imaging equipment and modernizing diagnostic services. An additional $90 million will be spent on medical equipment replacements.