Health

B.C. proposes change to allow physician assistants to work in emergency rooms

By Amy Judd Global News

Posted September 27, 2023 3:30 pm

Updated September 27, 2023 10:05 pm

1 min read

If you get Global News from Instagram or Facebook - that will be changing. Find out how you can still connect with us.

This article is more than 3 years old and some information may not be up to date.

Click to play video: 'B.C. physician assistants to work in ER’s' — WATCH: The province and the B.C. College of Physicians and surgeons are proposing changes that would allow physician assistants to work in the emergency rooms. As Aaron McArthur reports, critics say it's a good first step, but doesn't go far enough – Sep 27, 2023

The B.C. government is making another move to add resources to the health-care system.

The College of Physicians and Surgeons of British Columbia (CPSBC), in consultation with the Ministry of Health, has posted a proposal for bylaw changes that would enable physician assistants to work in emergency departments across the province.

Public consultation and feedback can be provided for the next seven days. If approved, the amended bylaw will allow physician assistants to work in emergency departments under the direction of physicians.

“The Ministry of Health has been working with the College of Physicians and Surgeons to introduce physician assistants into B.C.’s emergency departments,” Adrian Dix, Minister of Health, said in a statement. “This will support health-care workers to provide services to patients and help patients access the services they need as we continue to build out team-based care across the health-care system.”

Story continues below advertisement

Click to play video: 'Rally for better health care in Surrey'

1:54 Rally for better health care in Surrey

Physician assistants can provide a broad range of services, including patient exams, ordering laboratory and diagnostic tests, prescribing medications, managing treatment plans and advising patients on preventative care and optimal health practices.

Get weekly health news

Receive the latest medical news and health information delivered to you every Sunday.

By providing your email address, you have read and agree to Global News' Terms and Conditions and Privacy Policy.

The B.C. government estimates about 30 to 50 physician assistants are living in the province and training generally takes about 24 months before writing the certification exam.