A new province-wide survey conducted by Abacus Data for the Alberta Paramedic Association shows strong support for giving paramedics a greater role in delivering healthcare in the province.
From February 20 to 25, 2026, Abacus Data surveyed 1,000 residents through our Alberta Omnibus survey to better understand how Albertans currently see paramedics and what role they want them to play in building a stronger, more accessible, and more resilient healthcare system.
These results come at a time when healthcare remains one of the biggest pressure points in Alberta. It is now the number two issue in the province, with 45% of Albertans naming it one of the top three issues facing Alberta today, and growing pressure on the provincial government to show progress on healthcare, do things differently, and deliver change.
Against that backdrop, the results we are releasing today show that Albertans continue to trust paramedics and are open to them doing more. Nearly three-quarters are comfortable with paramedics playing a greater role in healthcare delivery, 76% are comfortable with them working more on primary care teams and in emergency departments, and 81% say they would personally be comfortable receiving care from a paramedic if a physician or nurse practitioner was not available.
The message is clear: Albertans see paramedics as part of the solution. Giving them greater responsibility has the potential to improve access to care, support patients more quickly, and relieve pressure on a healthcare system that many believe is under strain.
Full Results can be found HERE