POLICY MATTERS
Physicians are expected to :
Prepare for the occurrence of public health emergencies . This includes engaging in training and simulation exercises .
Make reasonable efforts to stay informed during public health emergencies .
Be available to provide medical care and / or other physician services during public health emergencies .
Document patient encounters to the extent to which the specific circumstances allow .
Only practise outside of their scope of practice on a temporary basis during public health emergencies when specific circumstances are met .
mends that physicians participate in simulation exercises and other emergency planning and preparation activities , and take advantage of training offered to them for tasks which they may be required to perform during a public health emergency ,” states the policy . The policy defines a public health emergency as “ a current or impending situation that constitutes a danger of major proportions with the potential to result in serious harm to the health of the public , and is usually caused by forces of nature , a disease or other health risk , an accident or an act whether intentional or otherwise .” Such an emergency would be declared by governments and public health authorities at the federal , provincial and municipal level . Throughout the consultations on the policy , participants raised a number of related issues , such as temporary licensure and hospital privileges , death and disability insurance , compensation , and the role of residents and medical students . These topics will be addressed in a companion document to the policy which will be posted on the website . MD
WE WANT YOUR FEEDBACK
Closing a Medical Practice Policy – Consultation
A draft of the Closing a Medical Practice policy has been approved by Council for external consultation . This draft policy is an update to the current policy and sets out expectations for physicians when permanently closing a medical practice .
We are now inviting feedback on the draft policy from all stakeholders , including members of the medical profession , the public , health-system organizations , and other health professionals . Visit the dedicated consultation page at www . cpso . on . ca to view further information and provide your feedback .
You can also email your thoughts to : practicemanagement @ cpso . on . ca
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DIALOGUE ISSUE 1 , 2018