Sindi Hawkins, British Columbia's minister of health planning, has extended the consultation period on controversial new legislation after groups representing several health care professions accused the province of trying to undermine self-regulation.
“We understand government's stated objectives concerning the protection of patient care,” the British Columbia Medical Association (BCMA) stated. “However, [this legislation] is deeply flawed and will not meet [these objectives].”
The Registered Nurses Association of BC was worried the law would allow the province to take over operation of a regulatory body. “Of particular concern are the new powers the minister would have to inquire into the functioning of a college and to direct a board of a college to act.”
The BCMA went further, saying that the law would give politicians powers similar to those enjoyed by HMOs in the US. These powers “tend to insert organizational priorities between physicians and patients to the detriment of quality care.”
The changes to the Health Professions Act were proposed following a detailed examination of the 15 regulated health care professions by a 3-member council. The council's 1400-page report, presented in March, was followed 4 months later by a consultation paper in which the government asked for input. Under the draft legislation, the 6 acts governing physicians, optometrists, dentists, podiatrists, chiropractors and registered nurses would be replaced by a uniform regulatory framework.
In late September, Hawkins told cabinet that input from health workers had prompted her to extend the consultation period. The legislation may be introduced in the spring. “The proposed amendments are not in any way intended to interfere with the day-to-day operations of colleges,” Hawkins said. — Steven Wharry, CMAJ