As you may know, the Code of Ethics sets out the basic ethical commitments that guide all regulated members of the paramedic profession in Alberta. Each regulated member is required to understand and comply with this Code, but how does this translate in the day-to-day work of EMRs, PCPs and ACPs?
The following scenario addresses responsibility to the profession:
4.1 Support self-regulation of the profession by recognizing that self-regulation of the profession is a privilege and each member has a continuing responsibility to merit this privilege.
Scenario:
A Primary Care Paramedic (PCP), Sarah, works at an industrial worksite in northern Alberta. The company employs several EMRs and paramedics who provide emergency medical response, first aid and occupational health services to employees and contractors.
During a shift change, Sarah overhears a conversation between two coworkers suggesting that another employee, Alex, who identifies themselves as an EMR, may not actually be registered with the Alberta College of Paramedics (College). Sarah has worked alongside Alex for several months and has always understood that Alex was a registered EMR.
Initially, Sarah is unsure whether the information is accurate. She recognizes that workplace rumours should not be treated as facts and that making unverified accusations could unfairly affect a colleague’s reputation. However, she also understands that public confidence in the paramedic profession depends on individuals practicing within the regulatory framework and meeting the requirements of registration.
Rather than relying on workplace gossip, Sarah visits the College’s Verify a Member page. She searches Alex’s name and is unable to find an active registration record.
Sarah recognizes that this is a concern worth bringing to the College’s attention. She understands that self-regulation is a privilege granted to the profession and that regulated members have a shared responsibility to protect the integrity and credibility of that privilege.
Sarah contacts the College to make them aware of her concern. She provides Alex’s name, explains what she has personally observed and shares the information that led her to question Alex’s registration status. She is careful to distinguish what she knows firsthand from what she has heard from others.
Sarah does not confront Alex publicly, spread the information among coworkers or attempt to investigate the matter herself. Instead, she brings the concern forward so the College can review the information, verify registration status and determine whether further action is necessary.
By taking these steps, Sarah demonstrates her responsibility to support self-regulation. She recognizes that maintaining the privilege of self-regulation requires regulated members to take an active interest in protecting the profession, supporting accountability and bringing legitimate concerns to the attention of their regulatory College.
Supporting self-regulation means:
- Recognizing that self-regulation is a privilege and not an entitlement.
- Understanding that each regulated member has an ongoing responsibility to uphold the integrity and credibility of the profession.
- Recognizing the importance of appropriate registration and authorization to practice.
- Using the College’s Verify a Member directory when there is a legitimate reason to confirm an individual’s registration status.
- Bringing concerns about individuals who may be representing themselves as registered EMRs or paramedics without appropriate registration to the College’s attention.
- Providing factual information and distinguishing between personal observations, information received from others and assumptions.
- Avoiding speculation, public accusations or actions that could unnecessarily damage another individual’s reputation.
- Understanding that reporting a concern does not mean determining whether misconduct has occurred; the College is responsible for reviewing the information and determining whether further action is appropriate.
This scenario demonstrates that supporting self-regulation is a shared responsibility. The privilege of regulating the paramedic profession depends on the willingness of its members to act with integrity, accountability and professionalism. When a regulated member becomes aware of a concern that may affect the integrity of the profession, bringing that information to the College is one way to demonstrate their commitment to maintaining public confidence and meriting the privilege of self-regulation.
If you have a concern about someone who may be practicing or representing themselves as a registered paramedic without appropriate registration, contact the College and make us aware. You do not need to investigate the matter or establish that a violation has occurred before raising your concern.