Equity, Diversity, Inclusion, Reconciliation, and Accessibility (EDIRA)
The Nova Scotia Regulator of Paramedicine is committed to creating a respectful, equitable, and inclusive workplace environment that fosters an experience of belonging, is representative of Nova Scotia’s diversity, and promotes culturally aware, safe, and equitable treatment of the public they serve.
We recognise that equity-deserving groups, particularly those with significant cultural histories within Nova Scotia, have experienced health disparities, poorer health statuses, and valid distrust in the healthcare system. Our journey toward eliminating racism and oppression in our health system starts by acknowledging these truths. But it doesn’t end there. As a contributor to regulating a health profession, we are holding ourselves accountable by deepening our commitment to advancing equity, diversity, inclusion, reconciliation, and accessibility to help improve health outcomes and ensure all Nova Scotians, and those travelling through our province, receive the high-quality of care they deserve. We exist to protect the public by licensing and overseeing qualified paramedicine practitioners who are committed to growth and deepening their skills and knowledge to provide culturally responsive and respectful care.
Inception
With the passage of the Order-in-Council 2024-181 on May 30, 2024, the College of Paramedics of Nova Scotia (CPNS) was continued as the Nova Scotia Regulator of Paramedicine (the “Regulator” or “NSRoP”) under the Regulated Health Profession Act, SNS 2023, c 15 and continued to be entrusted with the responsibility of regulating the practice of paramedicine.
History
The College of Paramedics of Nova Scotia (CPNS) was established as a statutory body corporate (corporation) pursuant to Bill No. 123 of the 2 nd Session 62 nd General Assembly Nova Scotia 64 Elizabeth II, 2015 Government Bill, Paramedics Act, on April 1, 2017 and assumed responsibility for regulating the practice of paramedicine from Emergency Health Services Nova Scotia (EHSNS).
NSRoP Mandate:
Our mandate is derived from legislation. Per Section 6 (1) of the Regulated Health Professions Act;
protect the public from harm;
serve and promote the public interest;
subject to the public interest, preserve the integrity of its profession;
and maintain public confidence in the ability of the regulatory body to regulate its profession.
To fulfill our mandate, we:
• Are accountable to the public and Minister.
• Set the criteria, and the recognition process, for paramedic programming in Nova Scotia.
• Establish the essential competencies for each category of licence.
• Establish registration and licensing processes to ensure only qualified registrants are permitted to practice.
• Establish, monitor, and enforce the Code of Ethics and Standards of Practice.
• Promote competent practice through the development and maintenance of a continuing competence program.
• Investigate, on its own initiative or on the complaint of a person, alleged instances of misconduct, conduct unbecoming the profession, incompetence or incapacity and, where appropriate, dispose of the matter in accordance with this Act, the regulations and the bylaws.
Use of Protected Titles & Practices:
Please refer to Sections 14-19 of the Paramedicine Regulations linked here.