- What is the purpose of the Registry?
- Who is eligible to be on the Registry?
- How do I apply?
- How long does it take for initial review?
- How much does it cost to apply?
- I am a health care assistant employed in a private facility in BC. Can I register?
- I’m an LPN and I work full-time (or part-time) as a health care assistant. Am I eligible to register?
- How can I check the status of my application?
1. What is the purpose of the Registry?
Care aides and community health workers are also now known as Health Care Assistants (HCAs). By creating a Registry for all care aides and community health workers in BC, the Ministry of Health is establishing and improving standards of care. The Registry was also created to serve and protect vulnerable patients, residents and clients receiving care from health care assistants in the province.
2. Who is eligible to be on the Registry?
- Graduates of Health Care Assistant programs in BC
- Graduates of Health Care Assistant programs in Canada (outside of BC)
- Licensed Practical Nurses, Registered Nurses and Registered Psychiatric Nurses who are licensed to practice in Canada. (Nurses educated outside of Canada and not licensed to practice in Canada must apply as internationally educated health care professionals.)
- Students enrolled in nursing programs in Canada
- Internationally educated health care professionals (IEHCPs)
3. How do I apply?
You will need to submit an online application to register. This creates an account for you so that your application can be submitted to the Registry for review. An email will automatically be sent to you with further instructions. You must open the email and click on the link to activate your account. (If not, your application will not be submitted.) When you have activated your account, you can log in to check your application status at any time.
If your application status has been changed to “ACTIVE”, you will be given a registration number. This is the number that employers will be requesting.
For a smoother process and to avoid delays, we recommend that you use a PC desktop or laptop computer to submit your application. This site has not been optimized for tablet/ipad/Mac computer or smart phone/other mobile devices (due to attachment compatibility).
4. How long does it take for initial review?
The application review takes 5-10 business days. However, depending on the complexity of the application, some may take longer.
5. How much does it cost to apply?
Currently, it is free to apply and remain on the Registry (no annual fee). However, depending on application category, there may be a fee(s) for assessments and/or transition education.
6. I am a health care assistant employed in a private facility in BC. Can I register?
You must submit an online application with evidence of your HCA training credentials and/or successful completion of a recognized HCA program in BC.
7. I'm an LPN and I work full-time (or part-time) as a health care assistant. Am I eligible to register?
Yes, anyone classified and working as either a full-time or part-time health care assistant is eligible to register by providing the requested credentials.
8. How can I check the status of my application?
You will need to submit an online application towards registration. This creates an account for you so that your application can be submitted to the Registry for review.