The Newfoundland and Labrador Regulation 97/25, Medical Regulations, 2023 (Amendment), made under the Medical Act, 2011, introduces a set of updates to the province’s medical licensing framework. The amendments mark a significant modernization of the regulatory framework, particularly through the formal recognition and regulation of physician assistants. By refining definitions, creating new categories of registration and licensing, and expanding provisions for learners, provisional registrants, and continuing professional development, the regulation aims to bring the province’s medical governance in line with evolving healthcare delivery models and interprovincial agreements.

One of the changes is the introduction of physician assistant registration and licensing under new sections 13.1 and 13.2. For the first time, physician assistants are given a defined regulatory pathway, requiring applicants to complete a council-approved application, meet standards set out in section 14, and demonstrate training and certification approved by the council. Recognition is also extended to physician assistants licensed in other Canadian jurisdictions under the Canadian Free Trade Agreement, provided their credentials are deemed equivalent. Once registered, physician assistants must hold a valid licence to practice in the province, and their eligibility depends on proof of employment in a council-approved position with clearly outlined duties.

The amendments also adjust the definitions and categories of medical licences. Terms such as “associate licence,” “clinical assistance licence,” “full licence,” and “provisional licence” are updated, while new recognition is given to “virtual care,” defined as the practice of medicine when the physician and patient are not in the same location. This addition reflects the growing importance of telemedicine and remote care, ensuring that regulatory standards explicitly cover digital healthcare delivery.

Scope of practice rules are refined for both physicians and physician assistants. Medical practitioners and physician assistants must work strictly within the boundaries of their respective licences, with the council empowered to prescribe restrictions and exemptions from education, training, certification, and professional development when a registrant’s scope excludes direct patient care. Importantly, a physician assistant’s scope may only be altered in accordance with regulations and with explicit council approval.

Provisions surrounding applications, emergency licences, licence renewals, and restrictions are also modernized to account for physician assistants. Application requirements and emergency licensing now expressly apply to both medical practitioners and physician assistants. Licence renewals require compliance with professional development obligations, adherence to licence conditions, and proof of ongoing competence. A renewal must be applied for within 12 months of expiry; otherwise, the applicant must reapply as if seeking a new licence. The registrar is also given authority to notify relevant parties if a licence has expired, ensuring transparency and preventing unauthorized practice.

Newfoundland and Labrador (97/2025) August 27, 2025
Disclaimer: Insights are for informational purposes only and do not reflect RRI’s official position or constitute legal opinion.