Historic Amendments to Registered Nurses Act Defines the Imperative Role Played by Regulator in the Lives of Newfoundlanders and Labradorians
This week the Honorable John Haggie, Minister of Health and Community Services introduced Bill 57, An Act TO AMEND THE REGISTERED NURSES ACT, 2008. On March 21st, 2019 the Bill was sent to third reading and supported unanimously by all parties in the House of Assembly.
One of the most significant amendments will see the Association of Registered Nurses of Newfoundland and Labrador become The College of Registered Nurses of Newfoundland and Labrador. This major development will reaffirm the public protection mandate of the regulator and come into effect September 1st, 2019.
“For 65 years ARNNL has been one of the primary pillars from which the foundation of our provincial heath care system is based. As the largest group of health professionals in the province, our presence is paramount to the delivery of top-quality care in Newfoundland and Labrador. This is a transformative process which will define the vital role we play in the lives of Newfoundlanders and Labradorians.”
Elaine Warren
President, Association of Registered Nurses of Newfoundland and Labrador
Additional changes to the legislation include removing the requirement to have a legislated standards committee approve a nurse practitioner’s scope of practice and clarifies the quality assurance process with respect to the authority to address concerns before they become more serious. These amendments are a positive means of ensuring that registered nurses continue to provide the highest level of care and services.
“In following national trends and changing from an association to a college we are redefining our identity and reaffirming our mission. While our name may change, our mandate to the public remains steadfast. The changes to the Registered Nurses Act will give rise to a renewed and modernized regulator that will become synonymous with top quality care, protection of public health, and excellence in the profession of nursing.”
Lynn Power
Executive Director, Association of Registered Nurses of Newfoundland and Labrador
THE REGISTERED NURSES ACT, 2008 regulates Registered Nurses and Nurse Practitioners, of which the Association of Registered Nurses of Newfoundland and Labrador (ARNNL) is the regulatory body. In representing over 6,500 RNs and NPs, ARNNL is the largest group of health professionals in the province.
To view the status of Bill 57 please visit: https://assembly.nl.ca/HouseBusiness/Bills/ga48session3/bill1857.htm
To view PDF: Click Here
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