Government Ignores BCCA Budget Proposal — Dr. Don Nixdorf, Executive Director
Last fall, the BCCA forwarded recommendations to Government regarding medical funding and DC payment for the April 1, 1999 - March 31, 2000 fiscal year budget. Without reason, the Minister of Finance later replied that they would not be considering our proposal.
Despite repeated attempts to discuss these issues with Government, we have yet to receive a response. Since practitioners continue to receive payment for services, a budget obviously exists. In addition, the freeze on Medicare premiums ends March 31, 1999. We expect to receive meeting information shortly, as Government must present a financial plan for the upcoming fiscal period. Members are encouraged to contact Dr. Doug Wright to participate in MLA discussions.
The Health Professions Council advises that the preliminary scope of practice review for each health profession begins in early June. In addition to chiropractic, the HPC has designated the reserved act of "manipulation" to include medicine, physiotherapy and naturopathy. This stance is inconsistent with the Act's terms of reference. Reserved Acts should not be assigned to professions that do not have an adequate core competency to perform procedures that are potentially harmful to the public. We will continue to lobby the HPC regarding this matter.
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