Dear Colleagues:

On March 11 and 12, your ACAC Council met for its quarterly meeting. Here is an overview of the decisions and information received at this meeting.

Medical officer of health discussion

Dr. Hu, a medical officer of health from Alberta Health Services—who was part of the COVID-19 vaccine information webinar for members in late February—addressed Council on his support for the work chiropractors have done during the pandemic, and to show his support for continuing advancements for chiropractors to engage with and support public health initiatives.

Regulatory and research information

Council discussed how the impact of decisions made in other jurisdictions, or research findings, should be part of ongoing ACAC deliberations to review standards from a continuing competence standpoint as well as enhancing patient safety. No decisions have been made at this point.

Annual General Meeting changes

Recognizing the changes that are happening within the ACAC as a result of Bill 46, the ACAC Council has decided that the 2021 annual general meeting will be virtual, like it was in 2020. Additionally, Council decided to not include the introduction or discussion of resolutions—as those are purview of the association, which will become a standalone entity within the next operational year—at this AGM.

Advocating for chiropractic

ACAC Council agreed to send a letter to Minister Shandro signaling the ACAC support for public health efforts, and that if the Minister chooses to expand the number of professions that could be provided with the authority to administer the COVID-19 vaccine to Albertans, there are some members that would be interested in the training and approval to do so.

Bill 46 impacts

Council continued work to prepare for the separation of the regulatory college and the association as required under Bill 46. More details will be shared in an association update to be sent to members in the coming weeks.

New public board members expected April 1, 2021

Council is preparing to welcome new public board members on April 1, 2021. Only one public member has been named to date, but more are expected prior to the end of March.

As always, if you have any questions, please reach out to you Council contact, which can be found in your members' centre.

Best regards,