Dear Colleagues,
Our families, our patients and our practices face an unprecedented challenge with COVID-19. This crisis has gripped our planet in a generational struggle to protect the public that health-care providers are sworn to serve as regulated health professionals. The situation is dire and the road ahead is unclear.
For many years, the ACAC has set the benchmark for public protection and advocacy for the profession nationally and internationally. The global response to COVID-19 has presented a significant challenge to all mandates. I am so proud of the tireless effort the ACAC has shown in facing the unknown future before us.
During this crisis, there have been questions about whether or not we should continue to serve Albertans or close our clinics. Council and staff have listened and consulted and the direction we’ve set forth is grounded in this message: We are an essential part of the health-care system for Albertans and we provide an important service for the public.
Our members are following Alberta Health Services and public health guidelines and ensuring a safe and sterile environment for patients to seek our expertise for disorders of the spine, muscle and nervous system. Our patients understand that the public health-care system is strained and appreciate the MSK option we provide so that fellow Albertans with respiratory symptoms get the care they need faster. Our services are important during this time.
At the same time, it is important that all members understand that despite the ability to practise safely, members are not required to keep their clinics open should they wish to close their clinic in this situation. The ACAC fully supports any chiropractor who chooses to close their clinic, as we have full faith and confidence in each chiropractor’s decision.
The ACAC and the profession stands in solidarity with our partners at Alberta Health Services in the preservation of our health-care system and all Albertans. I assure you, the ACAC is in daily contact through this time in an effort to provide you with responsible guidance.
As practitioners ourselves, Council is well aware of the challenges we all face. Council has asked staff to develop options to manage the upcoming renewal, including the CC requirement, in recognition of the disruption to practice. We will have details shortly.
The coming weeks will be filled with uncertainty and worry about our practices, our patients, our families and our way of life. It’s important that we understand that we will overcome this crisis in solidarity. It’s time we rolled up our sleeves like chiropractors have always done and come together to rebuild Alberta. I’m asking you to have purpose, set your course and do what we do best: exceed expectations.
You can find resources on the ACAC website and over at Alberta Health Services. The situation will change daily and it’s imperative that our members stay current and informed.
To all of us, I wish you a rapid recovery. Your Council is here to help, whenever you need.
In health,