HCA News

Important information for Health Care Aides

As part of the College of LPNs and HCAs of Alberta (CLHA) registration renewal process, Health Care Aides (HCAs) will need to answer specific questions, called “declarations.”

It is important to read these questions carefully and answer them honestly. As regulated professionals, HCAs are accountable for their behaviour. Answering dishonestly could be grounds for a complaint of unprofessional conduct.

What Declarations Will HCAs Need to Make?

When HCAs complete the registration renewal form, (deadline April 30), they will make the declarations in the areas listed below.

The CLHA will evaluate any concerns on a case-by-case basis. The most important thing is to answer all questions honestly so that appropriate actions can be taken.

Criminal Records

You will need to declare whether you are currently charged with a criminal offense or whether you have pleaded or been found guilty of a criminal offense. Having a criminal record does not automatically disqualify you from being an HCA. If you answer yes to having a criminal record, the CLHA will reach out to discuss your situation.

Note that all HCAs will be required to submit a criminal record check in the future. If you are found to have answered this question dishonestly, this will be treated as unprofessional conduct.

Fitness to Practice

According to the Standards of Practice for HCAs in Alberta, HCAs are required to assess and maintain fitness to practice. “Fitness to practice” means having the physical, mental, and emotional health required to provide safe, competent, and ethical care.

To meet this requirement, HCAs will need to declare whether they have physical or mental condition or disorder that may impair their ability to practice safely, competently, or ethically.

The CLHA will be in touch if you answer yes to this question to discuss your situation. You will not be required to share a specific diagnosis.

Previously Registered with Another Regulator

The CLHA requires all HCAs to answer a set of questions about being previously registered with another regulator in Canada or internationally. This includes being registered in a profession other than HCA.

If you have never been registered with another regulator, you can answer no to all of these questions.