Most programs have adopted professional practice standards, and clinical resource nurses are available to all programs. Professional practice leaders are being established for each discipline, as is a multidisciplinary professional practice council. Each site has a representative who provides advice on registered nursing practice issues. Program or department chiefs are responsible for defining and delineating physician accountability. An annual reappointment and credentialing process is in place.
New physicians complete a probationary period of one year.
The board approves recommendations for appointment and reappointment. The chief of staff and president of the medical staff association advise the board regularly. This team underwent restructuring in order to support the program management structure which, in turn, supports the organizational structure for team based decisions. Other processes used for collaboration, problem solving and decision making include committees, departmental staff meetings, union and management meetings, community forums, population advisory group, and the medical advisory committee. Occupational health and safety is promoted at the regional level, as well as at each site.