Living with endometriosis in Alberta can mean navigating referrals, regional differences in care, and variable access to specialist services. This page outlines common care pathways, available supports, and practical next steps if you are encountering delays or barriers.

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🏥 Hospital-Based Clinics & Programs

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In Alberta, endometriosis care is primarily provided through public, hospital-based gynecology and women’s health services, particularly within larger urban and academic centres.

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Care may be available through:

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• Hospital gynecology clinics

• Women’s health programs

• Chronic pelvic pain or multidisciplinary pain services (where available)

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In some regions, services are delivered through Alberta Health Services (AHS) facilities, particularly in larger centres such as Calgary and Edmonton.

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Availability, scope of services, and wait times vary by zone and referral pathway.

Examples are provided for awareness only and do not represent endorsements or guarantees of access.

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For a broader overview of providers across Canada, visit the Endometriosis Canada Care Directory.

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👉 Explore the Canada Care Directory

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🧭 Referral Pathways in Alberta

 

Access to gynecology and endometriosis-related care in Alberta typically requires a referral.

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Common referral routes include:

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• A family physician

• Primary care clinics or urgent care centres

• Referrals routed through centralized intake systems in some regions

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In larger zones, referrals to gynecology may be triaged centrally, while in other areas referrals may go directly to hospital-based clinics. Wait times and triage processes vary by region and service availability.

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Health Navigation Support

 

Health Link (811) can provide general health information and help guide patients within the Alberta health system.

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👉 Health Link (811)

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Helpful tips when requesting a referral:

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• Clearly explain symptom severity and impact on daily life

• Ask that suspected endometriosis or chronic pelvic pain be documented

• Inquire about pelvic pain or women’s health services, where available

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Delays and multiple referrals are common experiences and do not reflect the seriousness of your symptoms.

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♿ Disability & Income Supports in Alberta

 

Some people with endometriosis may qualify for provincial income or disability supports, depending on functional impact.

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Assured Income for the Severely Handicapped (AISH)

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AISH provides financial and health-related benefits to eligible Albertans with long-term disabilities.

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👉 Learn more about AISH

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Eligibility is based on functional limitations and long-term impact, not diagnosis alone. Medical documentation is generally required as part of the application process.

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✈️ Travel & Out-of-Region Care

 

In some cases, individuals may need to travel outside their local area for specialized care.

Important considerations:

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• Coverage and approvals vary depending on the service and situation

• Some referrals are coordinated through Alberta Health Services

• Travel and accommodation costs may not be fully covered

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If you are considering care outside your region, discuss this early with your healthcare provider and ask about any required approvals or documentation.

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🧩 Local Supports & Community Resources

 

Community-based endometriosis support resources in Alberta vary by region and are not always formally connected to the healthcare system.

Local supports may include:

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• Peer-led support groups

• Community health or advocacy organizations

• Pain management or wellness programs

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📩 If you run a verified support group or clinic-based program in Alberta, contact Endometriosis Canada to be considered for inclusion.

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🏫 Work & School Accommodations

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In Alberta, you may be entitled to reasonable accommodations at work or school under provincial human rights protections.

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Examples of accommodations may include:

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• Flexible or modified work schedules

• Remote or hybrid arrangements, where possible

• Academic accommodations or medical leave

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Accommodations are based on functional limitations, not solely on diagnosis.

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💛 Need Help Navigating Care?

 

If you are feeling overwhelmed, facing long wait times, or unsure where to turn next, you are not alone.

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Endometriosis Canada is here to help you navigate care, supports, and next steps.

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👉 Contact Endometriosis Canada
👉 Explore the Canada Care Directory