Practice standards and professional guidelines
The College develops practice standards, professional guidelines and legislative guidance to assist physicians and surgeons in meeting high standards of medical practice and conduct. The topics addressed focus on specific issues that are relevant to the practice of medicine.
Registrants are encouraged to become familiar with these documents and review them regularly as they are routinely updated over time.
Practice standards
A practice standard reflects the minimum standard of professional behaviour and ethical conduct on a specific topic or issue expected by the College of all physicians and surgeons in British Columbia.
Standards also reflect relevant legal requirements and are enforceable under the Health Professions Act, RSBC 1996, c.183 (HPA) and College Bylaws under the HPA.
Interim guidance
Interim guidance from the College provides information to express or clarify the College’s view on a particular matter. It is intended as guidance for registrants in areas where research and current practice are evolving or changing rapidly, the implementation of processes and procedures may be premature, or it is timely to communicate the College’s stance on an issue before a practice standard or professional guideline is developed.
Are you a registrant looking for guidance on how to apply relevant standards and guidelines? Learn more about registrant support coaching.