The EC2024-224 Regulated Health Professions Act Allied Health Professionals Regulations Amendment introduces changes to the regulations governing allied health professionals in Prince Edward Island (PEI). These amendments aim to streamline examination requirements and clarify the qualifications necessary for registration across various health professions.

One of the primary changes involves terminology adjustments, particularly the replacement of the plural term “examinations” with the singular term “examination” in several clauses, specifically Clauses 5(b), 19(b), and 33(b). This modification signifies a shift towards recognizing a singular, standardized examination for relevant professions. Additionally, the amendments introduce revisions to certification examination requirements. For Medical Laboratory Technology, Section 12 is revoked and replaced, stating that the required examination will now be the certification examination administered by the Canadian Society for Medical Laboratory Science. Candidates must achieve the established pass mark within a maximum of three attempts. Similarly, Subsection 26(1) has been updated for Medical Radiation Technology to indicate that the required examination will be conducted by the Canadian Association of Medical Radiation Technologists, removing the provincial examination requirement and emphasizing that only a competency examination approved by the Council is necessary for general registration. For Respiratory Therapy, Section 40 also undergoes revocation and replacement, stipulating that the national respiratory therapy examination established by Health Professionals Testing Canada is required, with successful completion criteria aligned with other disciplines.

Moreover, the amendments modify Clause 25(b) to empower the Council to assess whether an applicant’s qualifications are substantially equivalent to those previously outlined. This change allows for greater flexibility and a more comprehensive evaluation of qualifications, ensuring fair consideration for applicants from diverse educational backgrounds. Additionally, changes to Subclause 45(1)(d)(ii) update the reserved activities for respiratory therapists, expanding their scope of practice to include actions that extend beyond the pharynx, thus enhancing their capabilities and responsibilities in clinical settings.

These amendments, which will come into force on April 1, 2024, provide stakeholders and relevant professionals with adequate time to adapt to the revised requirements. The overall implications of these changes reflect a modernization of the regulatory framework for allied health professionals in PEI. By removing provincial examination requirements and replacing them with standardized national examinations, the regulations promote consistency and ensure that all practicing professionals meet a common standard of competence. This shift is particularly crucial in a healthcare landscape increasingly recognizing the need for a unified approach to qualifications and professional standards across provinces.

Furthermore, the Council’s ability to evaluate the equivalency of educational qualifications broadens opportunities for international graduates and professionals relocating to PEI, highlighting a commitment to inclusivity and recognition of diverse educational pathways in health professions.

Prince Edward Island (EC2024-224) March 23, 2024