Advocacy Update: Ongoing Dialogue and the Need for Greater Clarity

BCPA continues to engage in active and ongoing dialogue with both the College of Health and Care Professionals of BC (CHCPBC) and the Superintendent’s Office regarding the implementation of the College bylaws and the Health Professions and Occupations Act (HPOA). While discussions have been constructive, uncertainties remain, and we are urging for clear, accessible, and timely information to support psychologists and protect the public.

Our advocacy work is focused on addressing several areas that continue to raise concern among members. These include:

• Confidentiality and Privacy: Questions remain about whether regulators or government officials could access confidential client files under certain HPOA provisions. We are strongly advocating for explicit assurances that patient–psychologist confidentiality will remain protected.
   
• Penalties and Investigative Powers: Members have expressed concern about the expanded investigative and penalty powers under the HPOA. We continue to seek clarification to ensure due process protections are maintained.
   
• Other Apparent Changes Under the HPOA: Certain provisions remain unclear, and we are actively requesting detailed explanations so psychologists can understand how these changes may affect their practice.
   

BCPA will continue to advocate for clarity, transparency, and consistency, and we remain committed to ensuring the voice of psychologists is heard throughout this transition. As information becomes available, we will keep members updated and provide guidance to support your practice.

If you have questions or concerns you’d like us to raise on your behalf, please reach out at any time to Laura Darch, Executive Director at laura.darch@psychologists.bc.ca.