As 2024 comes to a close, we reflect on the activities and events that took place in the past year. We compiled a “2024 Year in Review” so that you may have an accurate and current understanding of the state of regulation of our profession. We look forward to continued dialogue and collaboration with the BC Ministry of Health.
Best wishes for a fruitful 2025,
Nicole Le Bihan
Chair, FACTBC
Movement Toward the Health Professions and Occupations Act
The Health Professions and Occupations Act (HPOA), which passed Royal Assent in November 2022, is not yet in force. However, several key steps were taken by the Ministry of Health in 2024 to lay the groundwork for the HPOA.
In early June 2024, Sherri Young was appointed to lead the Office of the Superintendent of the Health Professions and Occupations Oversight (also known as the Superintendent’s Office).
On June 28, 2024, the Ministry of Health completed the amalgamation of existing colleges, creating the College of Complementary Health Professionals of BC and the College of Health and Care Professionals of BC under the BC Health Professions Act.
In August 2024, Benson Cowan was appointed Director of Discipline to lead an independent discipline tribunal established under the HPOA within the new Office of the Superintendent of the Health Professions and Occupations Oversight.
Psychotherapy Designated as a Health Profession
In early July this year, the recommendation to designate psychotherapy as a health care profession under the Health Professions Act was brought to Cabinet and the proposal was approved. The announcement is welcomed news and the process continues forward, however, no tangible changes have occurred at this point. The creation of a draft regulation is the eagerly anticipated next step.
GST/HST Exemption for Counselling Therapists and Psychotherapists
Federal Bill C-59 received Royal Assent on June 20, 2024 and the measures are now law. Members of regulated Colleges (in Ontario, Nova Scotia, New Brunswick, PEI, and Quebec) can stop charging GST to clients. Individuals practicing in provinces with no regulatory body who have the equivalent qualifications required to meet the licensing requirements in a regulated province may also stop charging GST, though some further clarification from Canada Revenue Agency may be required. Confirm this change with your accountant.
BC Appoints a New Minister of Health
Following the provincial election in October, Honourable Josie Osborne was sworn in as the new Minister of Health.