Alberta shifts cancer screening notices from mail to MyChart starting this fall
Primary Care Alberta says the switch aims to cut reliance on paper letters while giving patients a digital way to track screening reminders and results.
Why it matters
The change affects how all Albertans enrolled in provincial cancer screening programs receive appointment reminders and results.
Primary Care Alberta (PCA) is phasing out mailed cancer screening invitations and reminders where possible, moving notifications instead to the MyChart platform on MyHealthAlberta. The Alberta Cervical Cancer Screening Program began the transition on Sept. 15, with the Alberta Colorectal Cancer Screening Program and Alberta Breast Cancer Screening Program expected to follow in 2027.
Patients who are not enrolled in MyChart will continue receiving printed letters. Normal screening results will be available through MyChart or communicated by a patient's care provider, while abnormal results will still be mailed, posted to MyChart, or relayed through the care provider.
Justin Wright, minister of Primary and Preventative Health Services, said the move reflects growing expectations for digital access to health services and supports participation in screening programs. PCA CEO Kimberley Simmonds said the change is meant to make it easier for patients to track screenings, review results and get appointment reminders.
Albertans who can use MyChart and haven't signed up are encouraged to create an account through MyHealthAlberta. Those still receiving paper letters who are concerned their mailing address is incorrect can contact Primary and Preventative Health Services at 310-0000, then dial 780-427-1432, or update details through the Alberta Health Care Insurance Plan.
Compiled by the Alberta Daily Desk — an AI-written summary of reporting from the credited sources below, produced and reviewed under our editorial policy.