NLMA Opposes Ministerial Regulation Power in Amendments to Medical Act
Dear Colleagues:
Yesterday, on behalf of the Board of Directors, I sent a letter to Minister Tom Osborne and Premier Andrew Furey expressing our opposition to the new amendments to the Medical Act which would give the government new powers to set qualifications for the provisional licensure of physicians.
This new power would be a breach of the principle of self-regulation of the medical profession, which has been a cornerstone of protecting patients and the public in the area of medical practice.
There were other options that the government could have pursued to achieve the same recruitment objectives in this time of crisis. The NLMA shares these objectives. We need more flexibility and less “red tape” in the licensing process. We need more physicians, and we need them fast. But creating this new ministerial power does not properly balance the need for action with the need to preserve professional self-regulation.
Since sending the letter over the weekend, discussions have started with the Minister on this issue. We will keep you advised of developments.
My complete letter is attached to this President’s Letter. I welcome your feedback on this issue.
Sincerely,
Kris Luscombe
President
President's Letter Archive
