Province looking into umbrella legislation to regulate professionals such as medical lab technologists and respiratory therapists
Prince Edward Island is holding consultations this summer as it contemplates creating umbrella legislation for health professionals seeking regulation.
Many unregulated health professions have previously sought, or are currently seeking, to become regulated in P.E.I., including:
•medical laboratory technologists
•medical radiation technologists
•naturopathic doctors
•respiratory therapists
•resident care workers
•midwives
•massage therapists.
The province said preparing standalone legislation and regulation for every regulated health profession is inefficient. Across the country, many jurisdictions have taken an umbrella legislation approach to supporting health professions seeking regulation, it said.
Carolyn Bertram, P.E.I.’s health and wellness minister, said “extensive” consultations with those health professionals will take place throughout the summer and fall months.
“We hope to have drafted umbrella health professions legislation prepared by spring of next year,” said Bertram. “Health professions legislation is a valuable tool for government in protecting Islanders by ensuring these professionals are competent in their skills and services.”
Each of these professions who have come forward seeking regulation will be contacted to take part in the consultation process. Through these consultations, the province will be able to clarify the criteria and develop a formal process for assessing requests for regulation, it said.
Additional health professional groups interested in taking part in the consultation process can contact the Department of Health and Wellness.
