Can I charge a patient directly if they do not have a valid Alberta Health Care number?

Yes, if the visit is for elective services. However, you can not refuse to treat or accept a patient in an emergency situation if you have the required skills to provide care.

Note: Alberta has a reciprocal billing agreement with every other province and territory except Quebec. If you treat a patient from another province or territory (except Quebec) who has been in Alberta for less than three months, you can go ahead and bill Alberta Health Care for that patient.