More safety and transparency for patients

Alberta Government is working to protect Albertans from sexual misconduct and abuse from regulated health professionals by introducing a bill that increases survivor supports and requires more transparency for regulatory colleges.

After hearing from survivors and their allies, the government is taking action with An Act to Protect Patients. The bill would make penalties mandatory for sexual abuse and sexual misconduct by regulated health professionals, would require disciplinary actions to be clearly and consistently posted online, and would provide survivors with access to treatment, counselling and patient-relations programs.

“Women, and all Albertans, deserve to feel safe when they put their trust in health-care professionals. For too long, Albertans were left in the dark about disciplinary histories, as we continued to hear disturbing stories of offending professionals being allowed to practise again. I’m proud our government is taking action to increase transparency, support survivors and strengthen protections for patients in Alberta,” said Sarah Hoffman, Minister of Health.