Quebec’s professional order of physicians is expressing support for a new provincial bill that aims to enhance the roles of healthcare professionals such as nurses and midwives. While pleased with the potential expansion of nurses’ abilities to prescribe medications and conduct tests, the Collège des médecins emphasizes the need for further details in the legislation, particularly concerning specific training requirements.
Currently, nurses in Quebec have limited authority to prescribe for certain health issues, such as wound care, since 2016. The proposed bill could grant them broader prescribing powers and the ability to order tests and examinations.
During special consultations on the legislation, known as Bill 15, the provincial association of pharmacy owners and the professional order of psychologists in Quebec are also expected to share their feedback. The order of doctors is putting forward 12 recommendations, stressing the importance of aligning regulations and practice standards across different healthcare professions, especially in areas where responsibilities overlap, such as prescribing medications and monitoring test results.
