BC HPA Flashcards
(24 cards)
How many health professions does the HPA regulate?
In British Columbia, there are 26 regulated health professions, of which 25 are governed by 6regulatory colleges under the Health Professions Act. The act provides a common regulatory framework for health professions in British Columbia.
What does Reserved Titles in Section 12.1 of the HPA specify?
Reserved Titles in Section 12.1 of the HPA prescribes specific titles for the exclusive use of registrants of regulatory colleges, and are a central and critical public protection element of British Columbia’s health professions regulatory framework. It is to protect the public by ensuring only qualified, registered individuals use professional titles. It expressly prohibits a person other than a registrant of a health professions regulatory college from using a reserved title, an abbreviation of the title or an equivalent of the title in another language to describe the person’s work or to imply that the person is a registrant or associated with the regulatory college. Contravention of this prohibition is punishable by a fine of not more than $2000 or imprisonment for not more than 6 months, or both.
Profession: Acupuncture
Regulatory College: College of Complementary Health Professionals of BC
Reserved Title: Acupuncturist
Profession: Traditional Chinese Medicine
Regulatory College: College of Complementary Health Professionals of BC
Reserved Titles:
* traditional Chinese medicine practitioner
* traditional Chinese medicine herbalist
* doctor of traditional Chinese medicine
* doctor
What is the regulatory authority for Acupuncture and TCM practitioners in BC?
The College of Complementary Health Professionals of British Columbia (CCHPBC), established under the Health Professions Act and the Traditional Chinese Medicine Practitioners and Acupuncturists Regulation.
Since when has Acupuncture been a designated health profession under the Health Professions Act in BC?
Acupuncture been a designated health profession under the Health Professions Act in BC since April 1, 1996
When did Traditional Chinese Medicine become a designated health profession under the Health Professions Act?
Traditional Chinese Medicine become a designated health profession under the Health Professions Act on December 4, 2000.
What is the main purpose of the Health Professions Act regarding regulated health professions?
To protect the public by ensuring only qualified and registered practitioners provide health services.
What is the scope of practice for an acupuncturist under the Regulation?
Performing acupuncture, using TCM diagnostic techniques, and recommending dietary guidelines or therapeutic exercise.
What therapies are included in the definition of Traditional Chinese Medicine under the Regulation?
Acupuncture, moxibustion, suction cup, manipulative therapy (Tui Na), energy control therapy (Qi Gong), rehabilitation exercises (Tai Ji Quan), herbal formulae, and food cure recipes.
What is required before an acupuncturist or herbalist can treat an active serious medical condition?
The client must have consulted with a medical practitioner.
What is the purpose of the public register maintained by the College under the Health Professions Act?
To allow the public to confirm that an individual providing TCM or acupuncture services is properly registered.
What is the penalty for practicing as an acupuncturist or TCM practitioner without registration?
It is an offense under the Health Professions Act to practice a designated health profession without being registered.
What must a registrant do to maintain their registration with the College?
Meet continuing competency requirements, renew registration annually, and comply with all bylaws and standards.
What is the College’s responsibility regarding patient privacy?
To protect personal information in accordance with the Freedom of Information and Protection of Privacy Act and other legislation.
What authority does the College have to create classes of restricted or provisional registrants?
The College may establish restricted or provisional registration classes under section 19(1)(i) of the Act and section 4.1 of the Regulation.
What is required for an acupuncturist to use TCM diagnostic techniques?
Authorization in the College’s bylaws is required.
What happens if a practitioner breaches the standards of practice or code of ethics?
They may be subject to investigation and discipline by the College, including suspension or revocation of registration.
What is the role of bylaws under the Health Professions Act?
Bylaws set out detailed rules for registration, standards of practice, continuing education, and professional conduct.
What must be done if a practitioner ceases practice or relocates?
They must ensure secure transfer or disposal of patient records as required by College bylaws and privacy legislation.
What is the College’s duty regarding public safety?
To regulate the profession in the public interest, ensuring practitioners meet standards of competence and ethics.
What is the process if a complaint is made against a TCM or acupuncture practitioner?
The College investigates complaints and may take disciplinary action if standards are breached.
What is the role of the Health Professions Act in regulating TCM and acupuncture?
It provides the legal framework for designation, registration, regulation, and discipline of practitioners.
Can a person use the title “doctor” if authorized by another enactment?
Yes, if authorized by another law regulating a health profession or as an academic designation.
Why is evidence-based practice important under the Health Professions Act?
To ensure that public health services are safe, effective, and in the best interest of patients.
When is an acupuncturist required to refer a patient to a medical professional in BC?
An acupuncturist in British Columbia is required to refer a patient to a medical professional under the following circumstances:
• If there is no improvement in the patient’s condition within 2 months of receiving acupuncture treatment, the acupuncturist must advise the client to consult a medical practitioner, naturopath, dentist, or doctor of traditional Chinese medicine
• If the client’s condition does not improve after an additional 2 months (total of 4 months) following the initial referral advice, or if the condition worsens or new symptoms develop, the acupuncturist must discontinue treatment if the client has not consulted with an appropriate regulated health professional.
• Acupuncturists and herbalists must not treat active serious medical conditions unless the client has already consulted with a medical practitioner, naturopath, dentist, or doctor of TCM, as appropriate
These requirements ensure that patients receive appropriate care and that acupuncturists work within their professional scope and in collaboration with other health professionals when necessary.
