April 3, 2025
EDMONTON – More Albertans scheduled for surgery will now have access to an Alberta Health Services (AHS) prehabilitation program that prepares them for the procedure in an effort to improve outcomes and patient experiences.
Prehabilitation (or prehab) was launched at Edmonton hospitals in December 2023. Over the past year, the program has expanded to become a provincially coordinated service. Albertans undergoing procedures at any AHS surgical facility or chartered surgical facility are eligible to be referred to the program by their surgeon or healthcare provider. Patient self-referrals are also accepted.
“Prehab is supported by research and is considered emerging best practice, with a focus on reducing surgical risk and improving the patient’s surgical journey,” says Elaine Finseth, Associate Chief Allied Health Officer, AHS.
The program offers medical, emotional, physical and practical supports, and helps Albertans proactively prepare for surgery by focusing on four areas:
Now available to any adult in Alberta waiting for surgery, the program has already received more than 2,700 patients referred to the program to date by 125 surgeons and providers, resulting in more than 4,600 patient visits. Patient feedback is positive, with survey responses noting patients felt prehab helped them feel ready for surgery and improved their recovery.
“Prehabilitation programs are essential for improving surgical outcomes and recovery,” says Adriana LaGrange, Minister of Health. “By preparing patients physically and mentally before surgery, this approach enhances healing, reduces complications, and empowers individuals to actively participate in their recovery process.”
“The prehab program is an excellent example of a care model that supports access from wherever Albertans live, improves health outcomes, and prioritizes the patient experience,” says Kim Simmonds, Chief Executive Officer, Primary Care Alberta. “We’re excited to see this program grow in the province.”
“By optimizing a patient’s health before surgery, programs like Prehab aim to ensure many patients can go home after surgery sooner, with fewer complications,” adds Dr. Chris Eagle, Interim Chief Executive Officer, Acute Care Alberta. “This improves patient flow in healthcare facilities, which is important in the long-term to improve Albertans access to healthcare.”
The AHS Prehabilitation Program is targeted to Albertans 18 years and up who are waiting for surgery in Alberta.
Visit ahs.ca/Prehab to learn more.
Alberta Health Services provides a range of healthcare services for more than four million adults and children living in Alberta. Our mission is to provide excellent, patient-focused healthcare that is accessible and sustainable for all Albertans. Our current focus is on reducing emergency department wait times, improving EMS response times, increasing access to surgeries, and improving patient flow.
