Features Finance Management
B.C. promotes health regulators with new campaign

The campaign dubbed, “Our purpose, your safety,” is spearheaded by the
B.C. Health Regulators, an alliance of more than 20 regulatory colleges –
including the College of Massage Therapists of B.C. – governed by the B.C.
Health Professions Act.

"British Columbia’s health regulators
protect patients by ensuring consistent standards for regulated health
professions – from nurses and physicians to audiologists and
dietitians," said Minister of Health Terry Lake. "This awareness
campaign will help ensure that the public is aware of the important role
B.C.’s health regulatory colleges play in patient safety and our health
care system."

Colleges ensure their registered professionals
practise safely, ably and ethically. By setting and enforcing standards
of practice, colleges ensure that residents can count on their health
professional to deliver safe and acceptable care.

"Regulatory
colleges exist for the protection of the public," says Dr. Heidi Oetter,
Registrar and CEO of the College of Physicians and Surgeons of BC. "We
make sure that anyone who uses the designation of any of the more than
20 regulated health professions is registered with their respective
college and meets all of the required standards."

The conditions
include graduation from a recognized school and successfully completing a
rigorous examination process before being granted the privilege to
practice. Health professionals must also complete criminal record
checks, provide proof of good character, renew their registration each
year and keep their skills and knowledge up to date. That is why it is
so important that British Columbians ensure their health professional is
registered and licensed.

"Health professionals are dedicated to
their patients’ well-being," says Oetter. "But if there is a concern,
patients need to know they can come to us. All complaints are
investigated, and may lead to remedial or in some cases, disciplinary
action. This campaign is about letting the public know that we’re here
for them."

The campaign launched Sept. 16 and includes bus
shelter and newspaper advertising, a website in nine languages
(www.bchealthregulators.ca ) and select television spots.