POLICY MATTERS
Second Batch
of Redesigned
Policies
Now Posted
Expectations are more clear, concise
C
ouncil has approved its second batch
of policies redesigned to enhance their
readability for physicians.
The nine policies set out expectations
in a clear and concise manner and better distinguish
between mandatory and permissive expectations. As with
the first batch of redesigned policies approved by Council
in May, the expectations articulated within the policies
have not changed.
“We know physicians want to do the right thing and
these redesigned policies will make it easier for physicians
to understand what the College expects,” said Craig Rox-
borough, Manager of the College’s Policy Department.
While the content of the policies is unchanged, the
approved policies use design techniques to enhance read-
ability. This includes using numbered/bulleted list for-
mat, using formatting (i.e., bold font) to better identify
and delineate mandatory and permissive expectations,
and adding a statement of purpose and definitions of key
terms to help clarify the College’s expectations.
The policy redesign strategy reflects the “keep it
simple” approach inherent in right touch regulation.
Avoiding complexity will lead to a greater impact.
Companion advice documents have also been devel-
oped, as needed, to capture important contextual infor-
mation or rationale that was removed from the policies
and to provide general advice regarding the policy expec-
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DIALOGUE ISSUE 3, 2019
tations. Some of these companion documents include
Frequently Asked Questions.
While all existing mandatory and permissive expecta-
tions are contained in these policies, we will be re-eval-
uating the use of permissive expectations as part of the
normal review process on a go-forward basis.
THE REDESIGNED POLICIES INCLUDE:
1. Dispensing Drugs
2. Mandatory and Permissive Reporting
3. Medical Expert: Reports and Testimony
4. Physician Behaviour in the Professional
Environment
5. Physicians' Relationships with Industry: Practice,
Education and Research
6. Physician Treatment of Self, Family Members, or
Others Close to Them
7. Professional Responsibilities in Postgraduate
Medical Education
8. Professional Responsibilities in Undergraduate
Medical Education
9. Third Party Reports