Horizon health - St. Albert, Alberta

Yvonne

I have never had any issues with this clinic. The staff at the front desk are always very friendly and helpful.
I love my doctor and her dietician, they really listen and make time for me.

Cristina S.

We’re switching clinics due to repeated disappointments, mainly because of the consistently rude front desk staff. Every encounter with them has been frustrating. Something feels off—while the doctors seem nice once you finally reach them, I suspect they’re aware of this behaviour.

Once, I was in the waiting room when someone called asking for a prescription change after having an allergic reaction to medication prescribed by the clinic. The front desk immediately dismissed them, telling them to either go to the ER or make another appointment weeks later. I expected them to notify the doctor, but they didn’t. Initially, I felt bad for the doctors, thinking they were stuck with a bad front desk, but after multiple rude encounters, I realized this behavior is intentional. They lack an emergency system, making it nearly impossible to see a doctor.

When I requested my child’s blood work, they refused to print it, citing office policy. The manager, one of the longest-serving employees and possibly the rudest person I’ve dealt with, made it clear that the policy is set by the doctors, so there’s no point in discussing it with them.

And these are just a few of the situations I’ve witnessed—the list goes on.

Josh D.

I see Dr. V Shaker here and she is an amazing physician but the clinic unfortunately suffers from the poor scheduling and reception. I regularly have to book appointments nearly a month in advance to see her, and have been rescheduled or cancelled multiple times the day before or even the day of my appointment. It seems this is a recurring issue from what I've heard from my family whom also go here and the other reviews. The reception staff could improve their people skills as well, after one receptionist audibly sighed in annoyance over the phone at me having to check my schedule, as well as calling me without leaving a message, then telling me there is nothing they need to speak with me about, then soon after calling again to reschedule my appointment. However, the team of doctors here deliver top notch care and come highly recommended by myself to others.

Roger R.

I am feel fortunate to have a primary care provider at this clinic. The staff have always done their utmost in providing timely access - this may even include having one of their other physicians assist you, if my own family doctor is not available. I have tried to get other family members to come here but none of the docs are able to take on you new clients. Perhaps the ones who have left negative reviews have moved on so that they can actually take on clients that appreciate the great health care service delivery that I have experienced 🙂

Anne K.

Dr V Shaker is a good MD however my experience with her front end staff leaves a lot to be desired. I rec’d 2 confirmation emails and responded to both. When I arrived at the appointed time, the office was dark and locked. I get that the roads were horrendous but I risked life and limb to get there. The least they could do is inform patients that the clinic was closed. So not impressed by the management of this clinic. I speak as someone who has done this for 20+years.

Jo F.

I would love to give this clinic a better review, but I can’t. Dr. V Shaker is such an amazing doctor, but the front end staff is quite lacking. In particular, the male receptionist is beyond rude, and should be educated on how to treat patients. Additionally, I make appointments 4-6weeks in advance, yet three times in a row they call and have to reschedule the date or time. Why bother making an appointment, oh because you can’t get in otherwise. It is crazy that you must book 4+ weeks in advance to see your doctor. I am lucky I don’t get seriously ill ever.

K T.

I've been going to Horizon Health for years and have always loved my experience there. I usually see Doctor V. Shaker and she's absolutely wonderful! Always listens, never brushes you off. Sometimes due to availability I see another Doctor and I've had great experiences with the others as well. Front staff is so kind and helpful - on the phone and in person! Wait times are also reasonable.

Leanne P.

This clinic and its staff have been incredibly helpful and kind to me over the years. I've never had an issue with scheduling or excessive wait times and the staff have always been pleasant. I travel here from Edmonton to see Dr. Holm-Jhass and she is definitely worth the drive as she is knowledgeable, professional and never makes me feel rushed. I absolutely recommend this clinic if you're lucky enough to find a Doctor here that is accepting new patients.