How Much Is a Doctors Note in Alberta? Complete 2026 Price Guide

A doctors note in Alberta costs between $20 and $100 depending on the provider. Here's a complete breakdown of what you'll pay in 2026.

Price Comparison Table

ProviderCostWait TimeConvenience
MedLetter (Online)$49Same day deliveryFrom home, no video call
Walk-In Clinic$20-$1002-4 hours in clinicMust attend while sick
Maple (Telehealth)$49-$6930-60 min wait for videoVideo call required
Tia Health$30+Limited availabilityAppointment based
Family Doctor$20-$50Days to weeks for appointmentExisting patients only
Emergency RoomFree (OHIP)6-8+ hoursNot recommended

Hidden Costs of Walk-In Clinics

The sticker price of a walk-in clinic note ($20-$50) doesn't reflect the true cost. Factor in: 2-4 hours of lost wages ($50-$200 for most workers), transportation costs, parking fees, exposure to other sick patients, and the physical toll of waiting while unwell.

Why Online is the Best Value

Frequently Asked Questions

How much does a sick note cost in Alberta in 2026?

A sick note in Alberta costs between $20 and $100 depending on the provider. MedLetter charges $49 with same-day delivery. Walk-in clinics charge $20-$100 plus 2-4 hours of waiting. Family doctors charge $20-$50 but require an appointment days to weeks in advance.

Are sick notes free in Alberta?

Sick notes are NOT covered by Alberta Health Insurance. They are classified as uninsured professional services, meaning physicians can charge for them. Some family doctors include the note fee in a regular visit, but most walk-in clinics charge separately ($20-$100).

Why do doctors charge for sick notes in Alberta?

Sick notes are uninsured services under Alberta Health. The physician's time spent reviewing your case, writing the documentation, and signing the note is not covered by public health insurance. The CPSA permits reasonable fees for uninsured services.

Is MedLetter cheaper than a walk-in clinic for a sick note?

Often yes. While some walk-in clinics charge as low as $20 for the note, you also lose 2-4 hours of your day waiting. For workers earning $25-$50/hour, the time cost of a walk-in visit ($50-$200 in lost wages) far exceeds MedLetter's $49 flat fee with same-day delivery from home.

Can my employer reimburse me for a sick note in Alberta?

Some employers reimburse sick note fees as part of their benefits or expense policy. Check with your HR department. If your employer requires the note, some employment lawyers argue they should cover the cost.

New sick-note requests are temporarily paused while we review our service. We are not accepting new orders at this time.