New funding for cancer research and wait times. (Photo: AHS)

By Haven Thibert

Alberta announces $800M investment in cancer care innovation

Mar 21, 2025 | 2:04 PM

Alberta’s government is investing $800 million over eight years in a new partnership to improve cancer care through research, new equipment, and AI.

The Cancer Innovation Value Partnership, in collaboration with Siemens Healthineers and the Alberta Cancer Foundation, aims to enhance early detection, reduce wait times, and improve treatment outcomes.

Alberta Premier, Danielle Smith, says, “This investment will position our province as a leader in cancer care by leveraging artificial intelligence, attracting health care professionals, and supporting researchers in developing innovative cancer care solutions. From prevention to detection to treatment, we are ensuring Albertans facing cancer receive the best care available.”

Siemens Healthineers will contribute $175 million to support two new centers of excellence and research initiatives.

The initiative includes replacing aging oncology treatment and imaging equipment and introducing an AI-enabled treatment unit that could reduce the time from consultation to treatment from two weeks to as little as two hours.

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The province says emergency visits for oncology-related cases could drop by 30 per cent, while wait times for cancer care and treatment could be cut in half.

The Learning Centre of Excellence in Cancer Care, based at the Arthur J.E. Child Comprehensive Cancer Centre in Calgary, will focus on workforce training and integrating new technologies.

The Artificial Intelligence Centre of Excellence in Cancer Care in Edmonton will develop AI and machine learning programs to improve cancer care delivery.

To further support cancer diagnostics, Budget 2025 proposes $168 million over three years for the Diagnostic Imaging Enhancements Program, with funds allocated to updating equipment and expanding imaging services.

The Alberta Cancer Foundation and Siemens Healthineers will also contribute $48 million to establish a medical research and innovation fund, aimed at attracting global talent and advancing cancer research.

Alberta Cancer Foundation, chief executive officer, Wendy Beauchesne says, “This is a major leap forward for cancer care in Alberta and will fuel vital cancer research. We’re proud to be a partner in moving the needle here at home and a catalyst for bringing more effective, personalized treatments to patients sooner. This is a truly remarkable day for Alberta.”

Officials say the partnership will strengthen Alberta’s role as a leader in oncology research and innovation while addressing the increasing demand for cancer care due to a growing and aging population.

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