The College of Practical Nurses is evolving. New doors are opening, thanks to our steady focus on the future and continued commitment to patient care. The contributions of practical nurses and the CLPNA are increasingly recognized and valued. Our influence is growing, as is our goal: a transformed health system with LPNs recognized as integral partners in care.
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MESSAGE FROM THE PUBLIC MEMBERS
Alberta’s Health Professions Act requires self-regulated professions such as the College of Licensed Practical Nurses of Alberta to include public representation on their councils. The reason is to provide balance, transparency and of course, to ensure the public interest is protected. Balance is provided, in the case of CLPNA, by the ratio of eight LPNs to three members of the general public as voting members on Council. The public members examine issues through a “public interest filter” that is not rooted within the profession. Consequently, our contribution to Council debate is often based on perceptions of equity.
The CLPNA has been assuming an ever-increasing leadership role within the health system. In 2014, the CLPNA organized a Think Tank presenting leading thinkers and practices related to dementia care. Attendees included the Minister of Health, leading decision makers and, of course, a large number of LPNs. Presenters came from Canada and Europe. The result was that Alberta’s decision makers were informed of trends in dementia care and LPNs were inspired by examples of success. The CLPNA and profession demonstrated its leadership and commitment to Albertans and increased its public profile.
We confirm that under the leadership of President Jo-Anne Macdonald-Watson and Executive Director/Registrar Linda Stanger, the CLPNA is very well regarded, managed and directed. The College and Council have effectively fulfilled their roles to serve and protect the public. The result is the delivery of high quality healthcare for Albertans.
Respectfully submitted,
Gary Christopherson on behalf of the Public Members
The CLPNA and profession demonstrated its leadership and commitment to Albertans and increased its public profile.