CSHBC has been working closely with other BC health profession regulatory colleges, the Ministry of Health, and consultants, on planning and preparation for amalgamations of the colleges to take place in mid-2024.
As a result of the extensive work on amalgamation that happened throughout the summer and that is continuing through the fall and beyond, there are several updates to share.
Amalgamation background
The Ministry of Health has confirmed that legal amalgamations of the following existing colleges will happen by June 28, 2024:
The creation of a new college through the amalgamation of:
- College of Dietitians of BC
- College of Occupational Therapists of BC
- College of Optometrists of BC
- College of Opticians of BC
- College of Physical Therapists of BC
- College of Psychologists of BC
- College of Speech and Hearing Health Professionals of BC
The creation of a new college through the amalgamation of:
- College of Chiropractors of BC
- College of Massage Therapists of BC
- College of Naturopathic Physicians of BC
- College of Traditional Chinese Medicine Practitioners and Acupuncturists of BC
The Ministry is providing financial support for the amalgamating colleges to implement the amalgamations.
Updates
- There is an amalgamation plan in place to identify and implement key priorities for the new college that CSHBC will be part of. As planning and preparations continue, in the interim, CSHBC is committed to business-as-usual delivery of the College’s services.
- In July 2023, the Ministry of Health appointed Allan Seckel, K.C., to lead the amalgamations. Mr. Seckel has a diverse background spanning public service, private legal practice, and work in the not-for-profit sector. His appointment establishes a clear decision-maker with respect to amalgamation-related decisions. With his appointment, Mr. Seckel assumes the powers of the college boards for matters directly relating to the amalgamation. He is working closely with the current college boards to make amalgamation decisions.
- Core services for registration and renewal, complaints and discipline, and practice support set out by the Health Professions Act remain the responsibility of the current colleges. The appointment of Mr. Seckel does not currently have any impact on these services. If there are changes, they will be communicated promptly.
- In August 2023, the Ministry of Health undertook a consultation process with the existing colleges to propose names for the amalgamated colleges. Considering input from the colleges, the Ministry will make a final decision on the new college names.
CSHBC will continue to communicate amalgamation updates as more information is confirmed.