Rocky Primary Care Network settles into new space

The Rocky Primary Care Network (PCN) has moved into its bright new space on the east end of Rocky Mountain House.

The PCN — which acts as a bridge between patients and their doctor — will continue to offer many services in the new building, such as its women’s health and maternity clinic.

Dr. Anwar Haq, executive director of the Rocky Mountain House Primary Care Network, says patients and staff have been in the new location for about a month.

“Our staff and patients are liking the new space,” he says. “The lobby area is nice and open; there’s a nicer view as well.”

He says it is a marked improvement over the previous location, which the PCN had outgrown.

For example, the former site had only one exam room, while the new space has two, with room to add more. Additional office space will also allow physicians and nurses to work closer to their patients.

That will be a significant advantage, Haq says, as the Alberta government has signalled nurse practitioners may soon have more latitude to work even more closely with patients.

Launched in 2024, Alberta Health Minister Adriana LaGrange said the new Primary Care Alberta will focus on supporting integrated teams of family physicians, nurse practitioners and pharmacists to provide patients with the best care possible.

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As the primary care model in Alberta remains fluid, Haq says the team is hesitant to put up things like permanent signage on their building, as the eventual role of the organization could change under new provincial guidelines.

View from the new lobby at the Rocky Primary Care Network (PCN) (Dr. Anwar Haq/Rocky Primary Care Network)

The building, which began construction in 2024, will also become the future home of the Rocky Medical Clinic.

Haq says the PCN is very excited to have both services operating under one roof. In a social media post, the Rocky Medical Clinic says it hopes to be in the new space next to the PCN in early 2026.

Rocky is unique, he says, because many communities have one PCN but multiple medical clinics. Once construction is complete, patients will be able to access PCN and clinic services in one stop.

The previous PCN location on 47 Ave — a five-minute walk to the clinic — often proved challenging for patients who had appointments at both the clinic and the PCN — especially those with mobility issues or who do not drive.

Haq notes it will also reduce confusion, as patients with PCN appointments would often show up at the medical clinic, and vice versa.

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The new PCN location is located at 5020 44 St in Rocky Mountain House, just south of Sobeys.