Physicians and surgeons have a professional and ethical duty to ensure that all patients can access medical care without discrimination. Providing equitable care—regardless of a patient’s background, identity, or circumstances—is a fundamental expectation of medical practice in BC.
To support equitable access to care and reinforce CPSBC’s broader commitment to patient safety, the Access to Medical Care Without Discrimination practice standard has been updated to reflect an evolving health-care landscape and to promote equity across the entire patient journey, not just at the initial point of care.
Revisions to the standard followed a comprehensive review and consultation process. CPSBC engaged with subject matter experts (including registrants), health system partners, and individuals and organizations who work closely with patient groups that often face systemic barriers when trying to access care. Their lived experience and expertise shaped the standard to ensure it is both relevant and applicable in medical practice today.
More information about the consultation process is available in the recently published engagement report.
To support registrants in critically assessing their clinical practice and applying the standard, CPSBC has developed several resources:
- A list of frequently asked questions (FAQs)
- Learning resources to reinforce key principles
- A self-directed online course that takes approximately 10–15 minutes to complete
- Connecting the Dots podcast episodes that explore relevant issues
The online course content draws on real clinical encounters shared by registrants during the consultation process and offers practical tips for ensuring equity in practice. For instance, to reduce the risk of miscommunication with patients who may not speak English, consider using professional interpretation services, which are both free and readily accessible for most clinics. Simple actions can aid in fostering a more inclusive, equitable and safe environment.
The practice standard emphasizes that registrants are not obligated to accept every patient into their practice or fulfill every patient request. It clearly outlines situations where it may be appropriate to decline a patient’s request, work within a defined scope of practice, or exercise a conscientious objection. Importantly, the standard does not impose new requirements. Instead, it reaffirms and refines existing expectations, supporting registrants in fulfilling their professional responsibilities.
Thank you for your continued dedication to providing safe, accessible, and equitable care.
Patrick Rowe, MD, CCFP (EM), FCFP
Registrar and CEO
Comments on this or any other article published in the College Connector can be submitted to the communications and public affairs department at communications@cpsbc.ca.