How Much Does a Sick Note Cost in Alberta?
Sick notes in Alberta cost $20-$50 at walk-in clinics, plus 2-4 hours of waiting time. Online services like MedLetter charge $49 with same day delivery and no wait. Alberta Health Care does not cover sick note fees.
Alberta Sick Note Pricing Breakdown
Here's what you'll pay for a sick note in Alberta:
- Walk-in clinic: $20-$50 (plus 2-4 hour wait)
- Family doctor: Often free during appointment (but weeks-long wait for appointment)
- After-hours clinic: $40-$75
- Online service (MedLetter): $49 (same day, no wait)
- Emergency room: Free but 6-12 hour wait (not recommended)
Hidden Costs of Clinic Visits
The sticker price of a clinic sick note doesn't tell the full story. Factor in: transit/gas/parking ($10-$25), lost wages from waiting 2-4 hours, exposure to other illnesses in the waiting room, and the energy cost of traveling while sick. The true cost of a clinic visit often exceeds $100.
Does Alberta Health Care Cover It?
No. Alberta Health Care Insurance Plan does not cover sick note fees. These are considered 'uninsured services' — administrative rather than medical. The fee comes out of your pocket regardless of where you get the note.
Can Your Employer Reimburse You?
Some Alberta employers reimburse sick note costs, especially if they're the ones requiring the documentation. Check your employee handbook or ask HR. Major Alberta employers like the provincial government and AHS sometimes cover these costs.
Best Value: MedLetter at $49
MedLetter provides Alberta sick notes from CPSA-registered physicians for $49 flat. Same day delivery, no hidden fees, no waiting room. When you factor in time savings, it's the most cost-effective option for most Alberta workers.