The Nurse Practitioner Primary Care Program (NPPCP) is a Government of Alberta program designed to improve access to primary care by enabling nurse practitioners to provide ongoing, comprehensive care to patients across the province.
Expanding Access to Primary Care for Albertans
Through the NPPCP, nurse practitioners can work as primary care providers—either by operating their own clinics or practising independently within team-based care settings—helping more Albertans connect with regular, consistent care when they need it.
Applications Submitted
Applications Approved
NPS enrolled in the NPPCP
How The NPAA Fits In
As Alberta’s professional association for nurse practitioners, NPAA supports NPs by helping them understand, prepare for, and navigate the program through education, guidance, and advocacy-informed resources.
The NPAA also works closely with multiple Ministries of the Government of Alberta and healthcare stakeholders to ensure the successful implementation of the program and provide input into system-level adjustments to support the success of the program.
Stay up to date
NPPCP 18 Month Review Report
NPPCP 18 Month Review Report | NPAA October 2025
The Nurse Practitioner Primary Care Program (NPPCP) has made significant strides since its launch, demonstrating strong potential for improving access to primary care in Alberta. Early evidence highlights both successes and challenges, revealing barriers that could affect the program’s long-term sustainability and the province’s competitiveness in attracting and retaining Nurse Practitioners.
This report outlines the systemic challenges NPs face under the current Ministerial Order, including compensation gaps, inflexible work hours, and the lack of locum coverage or parental leave. Legislative restrictions further impact NP practice and patient access to care. Emerging interprovincial competition, with more attractive reimbursement models in other provinces, underscores the urgency of addressing these issues. The report also emphasizes the importance of explicitly including all NP practice streams—Adult and Pediatric—within the NPPCP framework to ensure Alberta’s population needs are fully met.
Why the Nurse Practitioner Primary Care Program Matters
Alberta’s primary health care system is under pressure. Many people struggle to find a regular primary care provider, especially in underserved areas.
The NPPCP helps address this by:
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Expanding the number of primary care providers
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Supporting new and existing NP-led clinics
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Increasing patient access to timely, comprehensive care
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Strengthening community-based primary health services
The program is part of Alberta’s broader primary care reforms and is informed by recommendations from the Modernizing Alberta’s Primary Health Care System (MAPS) initiative.
Getting Started
Build a Strong Foundation for Your NP Practice by Understanding the Program & Resources
Embarking on your journey with the NPPCP starts with understanding the program, identifying your needs, and gathering essential information. This stage ensures you have a clear vision and the right tools to move forward.
Resources & Links
Key Considerations
- Learn about eligibility and benefits.
- Understand funding opportunities and support.
- Review FAQs and program guidelines.
- Explore foundational webinars and training sessions.
- Connect with mentors and professional networks.
For Nurse Practitioners
Go Deeper with Membership PLUS
While general information about the NPPCP is publicly available, nurse practitioners can access additional, practical supports through NPAA Membership PLUS.
Membership PLUS includes exclusive access to:
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Step-by-step guidance related to the NPPCP
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Webinars and education sessions
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Practical tools, templates, and checklists
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Alberta-specific business, billing, and operational resources
- Access to Health and Professional Liability Package
- One-to-one support
- Advertising your clinic space on the NPAA Find a NP directory
These supports are designed to help NPs move forward with clarity and confidence.