What does a Councillor do?
Simply put, Councillors are responsible for governing CPSA and fulfilling its legislative mandate, making policy decisions that help CPSA meet its obligations to Albertans. Councillors also develop and monitor CPSA’s Strategic Plan, and ensure the Plan is being implemented by the Registrar (CEO), who is responsible for running the entire organization.
Councillors are not involved in running CPSA programs or day-to-day operations.
"Whether a physician or public member, the real value is having constructive conversations with various opinions and the opportunity to learn from others."
- Stacey Strilchuk, 2023 CPSA Council Chair
We want your unique perspective so we can fully represent both public and regulated members’ interests. Together, we can impact the future of medicine in Alberta.
Are you up for the challenge?
We understand and recognize it may appear to be challenging to balance Council work and your other responsibilities. Your expertise and time commitment enable CPSA to protect the public by guiding the medical profession in Alberta. As you contemplate taking on this meaningful work, we ask you to consider the potential impact such commitment could have on you, your professional responsibilities, and your personal life.
Council members must:
- Have an understanding of the healthcare system as well as CPSA’s mission, priorities and mandate as outlined in the Health Professions Act to provide strategic direction, oversight and guidance for the organization and the CEO.
- Uphold high standards of integrity and accountability, ensuring transparency in all actions for the best interest of the public.
- Contribute to Council meetings by carefully reading and considering meeting materials, consistently attending and exercising best judgment when voting on decisions.
- Approve and adopt regulations and bylaws in accordance with the HPA in addition to documents aimed at regulating and directing the practice of regulated members, such as standards of practice, code of ethics, any other documents or resources the Council deems necessary to achieve its mandate under the Act.
- Maintain confidentiality on Council matters
What is the time commitment?
Being a member of CPSA Council provides you with many opportunities to connect with other leaders, gain experience in regulation and strengthen your leadership and governance skills.
The following list details time commitments to expect as a CPSA Councillor:
- Council Meetings:
- Two full days, four times a year (generally in March, May, September and December), usually at CPSA’s office in Edmonton.
- Socialization opportunities to connect with fellow Councillors frequently occur after meetings.
- Council Committees:
- Depending on governance needs and each Councillors’ interests and backgrounds, there are opportunities to serve on Council committees.
- Committees usually meet about four times a year, independent of Council meetings.
- Council Appeals:
- A panel of four Council members (two public and two physicians) is required to adjudicate each appeal to Council (an average of three per year).
- A Councilor will support the appeal process through preparation, meetings and deliberations.
- Council Learning:
- Councillors are given the opportunity to engage in scheduled and self-directed learning activities designed to strengthen leadership and governance skills while enhancing core and technical competencies.
Are Councillors paid?
Yes. Councillors are paid an honorarium plus travel, accommodation and meal expenses for each Council-approved meeting attended. The amount paid does not represent full compensation for lost earnings, but rather reflects a reasonable payment for one’s time and service.
In addition, CPSA, as a learning organization, highly values professional development and sets aside a designated budget for professional learning and training opportunities for Councillors.
Questions about becoming a CPSA Councillor?
Reach out to one of our existing Councillors to ask them your questions.