Lethbridge adding more doctors but still facing physician shortage

Lethbridge is starting to attract more doctors, but there's still work to be done to address a lack of access and high patient loads.

The latest numbers from the College of Physicians and Surgeons of Alberta shows more physicians are setting up shop in Lethbridge.

In the third quarter of 2025, the city saw a net gain of six doctors.

Since 2022, Lethbridge has seen a gain of 43 doctors, with 317 registered physicians now practicing.

“It’s always good news to hear that, you know, we are getting more physicians coming to the province,” said Dr. Brian Wirzba, president of the Alberta Medical Association.

“We have to remember that doesn’t always mean more access, because the population in Lethbridge and the province has also grown,” he added.

Improved process

The province attributes much of this new growth to a new compensation model and improved process for certifying foreign trained doctors.

Alberta is seeing a rise in new physicians across the province.

According to statement received from The Ministry of Primary and Preventative Health Services," as of December 1, Alberta had 13,576 registered physicians, an increase of 1,364 since December 31, 2024, setting a new record for the province."

While more physicians in Lethbridge is better news, there still appears to be a doctor shortage.

Just one clinic in the city is currently accepting patients.

Some doctors are treating up to 3,000 patients, which is three times the recommended amount.

Friends of Medicare estimates up to 40 per cent of Lethbridge residents are without a physician.

“This is really terrible. I know quite a few people, personally, who have no doctor who have had not had a doctor for six years. And that means they’re not getting any tests,” said Bev Muendel-Atherstone, Friends of Medicare Lethbridge chapter president.

More help could be on the way.

The Southeran Alberta Medical Program will begin its first classes in July at the University of Lethbridge.

Once fully operational, the program will train up to about 30 students annually.

“Physicians are more attracted to work in places where there might be trainees, where there can be some succession planning, where they’re going to work with young physicians who might take over a practice or join a practice,” said Dr. Wirzba