A Significant Transition for Health Regulation in BC
In just a few days, on April 1, 2026, the Health Professions and Occupations Act (HPOA) will come into force, replacing the Health Professions Act (HPA) and introducing a new regulatory framework for the regulation of health professions in British Columbia.
This new legislation was introduced by the Government of BC in 2022 and represents a major shift for CPBC and all health profession regulatory colleges in BC. For many of us in regulation, this is likely the most significant legislative change we will see in our careers.
We’ve been preparing for this transition for almost three-and-a-half years. For the most part, the changes introduced by the HPOA will be felt most by regulators in how we carry out our work.
So far, at CPBC, this has involved developing new bylaws, updating our systems and processes, and making the operational changes needed to support the new framework. Our focus has been on making sure we are ready to regulate effectively under the new HPOA, by developing new HPOA bylaws and updating bylaws under the Pharmacy Operations and Drug Scheduling Act, which have been revised to align with the new framework. As always, our goal throughout has been to both maintain and strengthen our ability to serve in the public interest.
This new legislation also reflects a stronger commitment to reconciliation and anti-discrimination in health profession regulation. This is closely aligned with CPBC’s own commitment to being an inclusive and collaborative regulator, dedicated to supporting public safety, optimal health, and culturally safe, equitable care – free from Indigenous-specific and other forms of racism
As we move past the April 1st HPOA in-force date, our attention will shift to the work ahead. That includes continuing to strengthen and modernize our ethics standards and practice standards and engaging with partners across the health system to inform our work. This will help us remain agile and grounded in the public interest as we navigate a rapidly evolving, technology-driven healthcare system.
I want to sincerely thank the current and past Board members for their commitment and guidance throughout this transition, and I look forward to working with our newly appointed HPOA Board starting April 1st.
We will continue sharing information and updates as this work progresses. More information about the HPOA is available on our website at bcpharmacists.org/HPOA as well as on the Ministry of Health’s website.
Sincerely,
Suzanne Solven
Registrar and CEO