Alberta Health Services

Message: Most of the people here seem like they genuinely care and want to help. But a lot of the systems around them make it difficult.. Waiting lists after referrals for mental health support can be six months. Scheduling appointments is basically only done over the phone and there can be frequent miscommunication or problems that require rescheduling.. At least one of the program intakes I needed to agree to required that I arrive at my initial appointment no more than 10 minutes late or my case would be closed and I would need a new referral and join the waiting list again. For some people needing mental health support that is an insane ultimatum. And sometimes the person you have an appointment with won't be ready until 20 minutes after your appointment start time.. Everyone working there seems to have trouble with the computer systems they use. I would guess the software is very unintuitive or there was little to no training provided on using it. They've also had trouble with consistency like sometimes being able to send a prescription to my preferred pharmacy while other times sending the wrong dose or printing the prescription for me to take.. Some programs have strict limits on how many sessions you can attend with seemingly little plans for those who need more support. Some program coordinators will plead for positive feedback to be provided in their surveys because the program could be shut down otherwise.. And recently they've tightened their policies so when you arrive at reception you need your health care card, government ID, and answer several questions even if you've been there dozens of times.

Message: It was not a good day that day but it's only gonna get better. I believe with in my heart they can help me and it's going to be a very long hard process.

Message: I have extreme anxiety about going to the dentist, and often put it off due to stress. I broke a tooth and Keerat was amazing to talk to on the phone. She booked me in for an emergency appointment and explained the qualifications to visit this clinic. At the appointment the Dental Assistant (I'm so sorry I forgot your name! ) Was very caring and precise. She explained what we were doing and was so empathetic. Dr. Kim was also amazing, he took the care to make sure he was confident with what my issue was (wasn't just a broken tooth), and did his due diligence to explain the challenges with my tooth.. I cried. Not because of the work, but because of my intense and crippling anxiety when it comes to dental visits. They were very kind and made sure I was aware they were on my team to have a healthier mouth.. I have received lesser care at many dental offices around Calgary when I was gainfully employed with benefits. I am humbled at how empathetic and caring all the staff is. Thank you so much for helping me with my oral recovery one step at a time.