It was recently announced that the Health Professions and Occupations Regulatory Oversight Office (the Oversight Office) will be initiating a designation assessment of health care assistants (HCAs) under the Health Professions and Occupations Act (HPOA). This will be the first non-regulated professional group to be assessed under the HPOA.
The assessment will review the risk of harm to the public and will recommend whether it is in the public interest to regulate HCAs as either a profession or occupation. There will be a consultation and assessment period, after which a report and recommendation will be provided to the Minister of Health for consideration and decision.
For more information and details, please read the full announcement from the Oversight Office.
The Oversight Office is seeking input from the public and other impacted groups through a survey to assist with the consultation and assessment process.
Survey link
This engagement will explore the work of HCAs, including the settings where they provide care, the nature of their roles and responsibilities, and the potential risks and types of harm that could occur. It also seeks input on how HCAs are currently overseen and the potential impacts of regulation under B.C. health law.
More ways to participate in the engagement
If you have any questions or feedback about this designation assessment, please contact the Oversight Office.
Key contact
Health Professions and Occupations Regulatory Oversight Office
Nicola Crosbie
Nicola.Crosbie@hporoo.ca
250 893-6483
