News release

Act Supports Collaboration Among Health Professions

Health and Wellness

More collaboration among health professionals will mean better care for Nova Scotians under legislation introduced today, Nov. 22, by Health and Wellness Minister David Wilson.

The Regulated Health Professions Network Act will allow health professionals to better benefit from each other's experience, knowledge and specialized skills.

"There is a strong history of collaboration among regulated health professions in Nova Scotia. This act better reflects, supports and fosters the collaborative model of care that exists, which means better care for Nova Scotians," said Mr. Wilson.

There are 20 self-regulated health professions in Nova Scotia covered by separate acts.

The new Regulated Health Professions Network Act will enhance voluntary opportunities for collaboration, and support quality improvements. It will allow better sharing of information, best practices and resources such as policies, standards and training materials.

Under the new law, health professions will be able to agree to modify or interpret scopes of practice without legislative amendments.

"The network is extremely pleased with this new legislation," said Donna Denney, executive director of the College of Registered Nurses of Nova Scotia and chair of the working group of the Nova Scotia Regulated Health Professions Network. "It reflects a high level of commitment to public protection and regulatory excellence, and will provide health professions with better tools to support the delivery of quality health care."

"Over and over again the research shows collaborative health care is better care," said Dr. Peter Vaughan, CEO of South Shore Health and chair of the province's Quality and Patient Safety Advisory Committee. "This new legislation is one of the most important health policy changes since the advent of collaborative health care teams and stands to significantly enhance the quality and patient safety agenda in Nova Scotia."