Our thoughts are with those in Jasper and beyond who have been evacuated due to the fires in Alberta. We have heard from the College of Health and Care Professions of BC that their practice across jurisdictions policy is now available. Notably, if your Alberta clients have been evacuated and are now in BC temporarily, you are able to provide virtual follow up care. Specifically:
If the client is not a resident of BC but is visiting or vacationing in BC for 45 days or less, the occupational therapist is not required to register with the College to provide virtual care; however, if the client’s stay in BC exceeds 45 days, temporary registration would be required. If their stay exceeds 90 days, full registration would be required.
If the Alberta-registered OTs need to provide in-person care, they have an option for temporary registration (https://chcpbc.org/for-professions/occupational-therapists/applicants/#temporary ). An OT can apply for either a 45 day permit or 90-day permit. The application is online and will require notarized ID, authorization and fee for a criminal record check, and evidence of professional liability insurance.
This support for continuity of care will be helpful to all of those who are impacted.