Health Advisory Council appointments complete
December 11, 2009
EDMONTON – The Alberta Health Services Board has appointed members to nine Health Advisory Councils. Included in the appointments are Health Advisory Council areas 1-6, 8, 11 and 12 (see map). These appointments conclude recruitment to the 12 Health Advisory Councils.
Health Advisory Councils will provide meaningful opportunities for public engagement with Alberta Health Services. Acting in an advisory capacity, the role of the councils will be to engage community members, gathering input and feedback on local health service delivery in communities across the province.
“The appointment of the councils is a significant milestone for Alberta Health Services,” said Board Chair Ken Hughes. “We know Albertans have been asking for increased opportunities to provide feedback on health service delivery in the province. These councils will help us engage with communities and allow us to gather valuable information on local health care needs.”
The appointments were made at the Board’s regular meeting on Dec. 3 in Edmonton. Members of Health Advisory Council areas 7, 9 and 10 were announced in November.
“The Health Advisory Councils will work directly with local leaders,” said Dr. Stephen Duckett, President and Chief Executive Officer. “Their input will help inform our decision-making processes as we work to meet the health service delivery needs of Albertans.”
The Board has appointed council members to two- and three-year terms. The varied term lengths have been established to stagger turnover and help maintain experience on councils. Members will be asked to recommend a council chair. The Board will have final approval.
All councils will hold their orientation meetings in January. Councils will be expected to hold their second meetings by the end of March. Each council is to meet four to six times per year.
“The recruitment process has been a significant undertaking for our organization and we look forward to begin working with the councils in the new year,” said Duckett.
Alberta Health Services is the provincial health authority responsible for planning and delivering health supports and services for more than 3.5 million adults and children living in Alberta. Its mission is to provide a patient-focused, quality health system that is accessible and sustainable for all Albertans.
