Welcome to Alberta! We hope that the following information helps you to navigate the different systems of support and funding, and to make informed decisions.
Alberta IDs Required:
Alberta Health Care Insurance Plan (AB Health Card)
All new and returning residents must apply for Alberta Health Care Insurance Plan coverage. To find out more or to apply go here.
Alberta ID and/or Driver’s License
To obtain an Alberta ID or Alberta Driver’s license go here.
Alberta.ca Account
An Alberta.ca Account gives you online access to many government services and programs. Set up your account by going here.
Provincial Funding:
Family Support for Children with Disabilities (FSCD)
Provides families who have children with disabilities with a legal contract to enable them to access services (and some products), to help with the extraordinary costs of having a child with special needs. Contracts vary from family to family in value depending on their circumstances and unique needs. FSCD Website
Persons with Disabilities (PDD)
PDD helps adults with developmental disabilities to live as independently as possible in their community. PDD Website
Assured Income for the Severely Handicapped (AISH)
Financial and health benefits for eligible Albertans with a permanent medical condition that prevents them from earning a living. AISH Website
Assessment/Diagnosis:
There are two main ways to obtain an assessment or diagnosis – Privately by a psychologist, or covered by Alberta Health Services (AHS) by a psychiatrist or a developmental pediatrician.
Medical professionals:
Family Doctor
Most families stay with their family doctors for regular health issues related to their child, but when it comes to disability-related health issues, they might consider being referred to a pediatrician by their family doctor. Your family doctor is the main point of contact for individuals to access any health services in Alberta.
Find a doctor here.
Pediatricians
Specialize in childhood disease, illness, physical & mental health needs.
Psychologists
Specializing in mental health related care, most private psychologists work with families who self-refer. Some require a professional, such as a family doctor or an agency to send a referral.
Therapy Providers
Some providers work in an agency setting, some work from their home, some travel to families homes. Rates vary depending on many factors, and oftentimes there is no need for a referral.
Education Options:
Early Childhood Education
If your child is between the ages of 2.5-6 years old and has a severe delay or disability, he/she would probably qualify for PUF funding (Program Unit Funding). This funding provides extra support in a preschool/kindergarten setting. That support could be in the form of consultation with therapists and might include an aide in some programs. (Parents cannot apply for PUF; it’s the schools who apply for it, to support their students).
Alberta’s K-12 Education System
How Alberta’s school system works, school locations, and administrative planning, reporting and funding.
