Transfer Of Care

Standard of Practice

Under Review: No
Issued by Council: January 1, 2010
Reissued by Council: October 1, 2016


  1. A regulated member transferring full or partial responsibility for a patient’s care to another healthcare provider(s) must:
    1. communicate clearly with the accepting healthcare provider(s) and provide a timely, written summary that includes the following information:
      1. identification of the roles and responsibilities of the regulated member and other healthcare providers involved in the patient’s ongoing care;
      2. pertinent clinical information, including outstanding test results and active consultations;
      3. treatment plans and recommendations for follow-up care;
    2. have a discussion with the patient to:
      1. identify the roles and responsibilities of the regulated member and other healthcare providers involved in the patient’s ongoing care; and
      2. explain treatment plans and recommendations for follow-up care.
  2. A regulated member discharging a patient from a healthcare facility must:
    1. complete a timely discharge summary consistent with the policies of the facility; and
    2. provide relevant healthcare providers with pertinent clinical information, including, but not limited to:
      1. discharge medications;
      2. outstanding investigations, including responsibility for requisitioning follow-up; and
      3. active consultations.

About the Standards of Practice

The CPSA Standards of Practice are the minimum standards of professional behaviour and ethical conduct expected of all physicians registered in Alberta. Standards of practice are enforceable under the Health Professions Act and will be referenced in the management of complaints and in discipline hearings.

Questions?

For questions or archived standards, policies and guidelines contact our Standards of Practice Advisor.

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