I find this ridiculous at best!

Fred, Airdrie, Alberta

May 26th, 2015

I have a herniated disc in my lower lumbar region of my back,, L4 to be precise. After being referred to the Spine Triage and Assessment Clinic at the University of Calgary / Alberta Health Services, I received a letter back form them. The letter clearly stated that they were overwhelmed with over 1,800 patients in waiting and could not accommodate the request. In the letter they stated that if I needed urgent care to go to an ER department or contact their MLA regarding access to care.

I have paid for my own MRI as the wait list was up to 1 year long for the MRI and I am currently seeking to make arrangements' for private surgery for which I will have to pay for myself otherwise I will face up to another additional year.

I find this ridiculous at best! I wonder when they are going to start giving us a reduction in our personal tax base to offset the lack of available care. All this having been said, there is a true need to private care however it is unfortunate that many cannot afford the expense of it. Anyone who wants to see a copy of the letter is welcome. I can send a copy.

Fred Wright
Airdrie, AB

UPDATE from Charter Health: Fred was kind enough to send us a copy of the letter received:

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