Alberta doctors call for investigation, apology over decision about Hinshaw

More than 100 Alberta doctors have signed an open letter to express concern about a decision to revoke a job offer to the province's former chief medical officer of health.

More than 100 Alberta doctors have signed an open letter to express concern about a decision to revoke a job offer to the province's former chief medical officer of health.

Dr. Deena Hinshaw had reportedly been hired and then removed from a role with Indigenous Wellness Core, a program in Alberta Health Services focused on Indigenous health.

CBC News reported last week that it led to the resignation of the group's medical director, Dr. Esther Tailfeathers, who said she left out of frustration with the move.

The doctors sent a letter Monday to Dr. John Cowell, the chief administrator of Alberta Health Services, and Premier Danielle Smith raising their concerns.

“Revoking Dr. Hinshaw's contract has caused significant harm,” said the letter, which was posted on social media and confirmed by The Canadian Press.

The letter said it not only hurts Hinshaw, Tailfeathers and the relationship between doctors and the province, but all Albertans - particularly those who are Indigenous.

“Dr. Hinshaw has been prevented from working for AHS,” said the doctors. “This is entirely unfair and unprofessional. Further, it signals to all physicians in this province that their positions are unsafe and could be targeted for political gain.