Ontario government underscores commitment to expanded scope of practice for RPNs
MISSISSAUGA, ON, March 24, 2017 /CNW/ - Ontario Premier Kathleen Wynne and Health Minister Eric Hoskins showed their support this week for the excellent work of Registered Practical Nurses (RPNs) with their attendance at the Registered Practical Nurses Association of Ontario (RPNAO) Queen's Park Day.
A group of approximately 60 RPNs were welcomed to Queen's Park Wednesday by Premier Wynne, Minister Hoskins and about 50 Members of Provincial Parliament to highlight the role RPNs play in the province's health care system and to discuss ways to further improve access to timely, high-quality care for Ontarians.
"The Ontario government has sent a strong signal about the vital role Ontario's RPNs play in our health care system," said Dianne Martin, Chief Executive Officer of RPNAO. "We look forward to working with the province on important changes that will enhance the ability of RPNs to deliver safe, evidence-based care in a more timely, efficient manner."
Minister Hoskins underscored the "outstanding" work performed by RPNs across the province on a daily basis and said the government is committed to removing barriers to help improve care for all Ontarians.
"RPNAO has been clear that scope-of-practice changes would help address certain barriers and ensure patients receive faster access to the right care and our government agrees," Minister Hoskins said. "We know that by working together on increasing RPNs' scope, we can further improve access to care for Ontarians and reduce wait times even further."
The visit to Queen's Park was organized by RPNAO and included a reception for MPPs and meetings with government leaders. There are approximately 50,000 RPNs registered to practice in Ontario, the second largest group of regulated health professionals in the province.
"We value the work that each and every one of those RPNs does in this province," said Minister Hoskins.
About RPNAO
Founded in 1958, RPNAO is the voice of registered practical nursing in Ontario. For more information about RPNAO, its mandate and how RPNs contribute to Ontario's health care system, please visit rpnao.org.
SOURCE Registered Practical Nurses Association of Ontario
Warren Weeks: [email protected] or 416-238-6361
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