The Insurance Brokers Association of Alberta (IBAA) is urging the provincial government to finalize regulations for the proposed care-first auto insurance model, warning that every week of delay prolongs Albertans' wait for lower premiums and faster access to medical treatment after collisions.
Care-First Model Promises Major Savings and Better Care
According to Jhnel Weller-Hannaway of the IBAA, the care-first model is expected to reduce auto insurance costs by more than $830 million across Alberta. Under this system, injured drivers would receive unlimited medically necessary treatment and access to benefits within weeks instead of months or years. The model shifts focus from costly disputes to timely medical treatment, rehabilitation, and recovery.
"Those expectations are reasonable. They are also at the heart of Alberta's proposed care-first auto insurance model," Weller-Hannaway wrote in an opinion piece published in the Edmonton Journal.
Consumer-Focused Reform Supported by Brokers
The IBAA has consistently supported the government's auto insurance reform process, emphasizing solutions that put consumers first. The association believes care-first focuses on two key outcomes: better care and greater affordability. For families facing continued affordability pressures, the promised premium savings are significant, and for injury victims, faster access to treatment is critical.
"Success should not be measured by how efficiently the system processes claims, but by whether Albertans recover faster, return to work sooner and have confidence that their insurance is there when they need it most," Weller-Hannaway stated.
Urgent Need for Regulatory Certainty
While the IBAA supports the policy direction, the association warns that good public policy depends on effective implementation. The greatest current risk is the absence of final regulations needed to bring the care-first model to life. Every week regulations remain outstanding delays improved access to care for Alberta drivers.
"We have now reached the point where immediate regulatory certainty is essential if Care-First is to be implemented successfully," Weller-Hannaway wrote.
Brokers Ready to Educate Consumers
Insurance brokers will play a critical role in the transition, serving as trusted advisors to help Albertans understand the new product, explain coverage options, answer questions, and ensure families purchase appropriate protection. However, this responsibility requires time to prepare, train staff, update systems, and properly educate consumers.
The IBAA's call comes as Alberta continues its push to rein in auto insurance costs, with the care-first model seen as a key reform to deliver both affordability and improved care for injured drivers.
