Calgary’s bariatric care expansion to ease acute hospital strain by 2026
Specialised bariatric care in Calgary is set to expand after a major funding boost. Alberta Health Services (AHS) and Calgary Health Foundation have backed upgrades at two Carewest facilities. The investment will enhance services for Albertans living with severe obesity while easing pressure on acute care beds.
Calgary Health Foundation has pledged $1 million to Assisted Living Alberta (ALA) for the project management. The funds will upgrade seven existing bariatric spaces at Carewest Garrison Green and add a new bariatric bed at Carewest Sarcee.
The improvements aim to provide long-term rehabilitation and support for community discharge. By shifting patients to specialised care, the project management will free up acute care beds across the system. Construction at Garrison Green is expected to finish by summer 2026, with Sarcee’s upgrades completed by fall 2026. Leaders have welcomed the initiative. Dr. Sayeh Zielke, Executive Chair of ALA, thanked the Calgary Health Foundation for improving access to bariatric care. Paul Rossmann, the foundation’s President and CEO, called the project a key step in reducing hospital wait times. Barb Kathol, Chief Operating Officer of Carewest, added that the upgrades would cut unnecessary hospital stays and improve patient flow. A formal event will mark the completion of the upgrades in fall 2026.
The expanded facilities will offer better rehabilitation for patients with severe obesity. They will also return acute care beds to the system, helping to reduce congestion in hospitals. The project’s completion is scheduled for 2026, with operational benefits expected soon after.
