Notes
Community organizations: n/a
Future research / gaps identified:
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Future research: Continue to analyze healthcare access and health disparities between Albertans born inside or outside of Canada as a result of the COVID-19 pandemic.
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Gaps: The survey only collected data from a snapshot in time, and the survey results can’t be generalized to the overall Albertan population.
Integration timeline: not defined
Key populations: Albertans 16 years or older who used healthcare during the COVID-19 pandemic (COVID or not COVID-related).
Key findings:
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Canadian-born respondents reported better virtual care experiences than Canadians born outside of Canada.
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Canadian-born respondents were more likely to report worse mental and physical health status, and higher stress, anxiety, and depression during the pandemic than those born outside Canada.
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Reported negative health impacts were associated with healthcare delays during the pandemic and vaccine hesitancy for COVID-19.
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Healthcare delays and vaccine hesitancy was not significantly different between Canadian-born respondents and respondents born outside of Canada.
Key recommendations:
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Develop a clear cost-effective community-based intervention, including better mental health care for everyone, to promote and enhance improved access to healthcare for all.
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Expand investment in technology, training for the workforce in primary care settings, and educating patients about the virtual care process to enhance the quality of virtual care improve access.
Location: Survey was administered across Alberta.
