Speaking up about experiences involving sexual misconduct, sexual abuse, or discrimination by a regulated health professional—and participating in the regulatory complaint process—can feel overwhelming and difficult.
Health regulatory colleges in B.C. offer programs designed and available specifically to support individuals who bring forward such a complaint. These programs are designed to ease the emotional or practical challenges associated with coming forward and participating in the regulatory complaint process.
These support programs have been established under the Health Professions and Occupations Act (HPOA), which came into force on April 1, 2026. They are part of broader efforts across B.C. to address barriers people may encounter when raising concerns in health-care settings. Particular attention has been given to advancing equitable access to safe, distinction-based, culturally responsive care by trauma-informed supports focused to the priorities and lived experiences of Indigenous individuals.
Read more about support for Indigenous individuals making a complaint to BCCNM.
These programs are available to eligible complainants at no charge and are completely optional.
There are three types of support:
Information Services: Providing information about the process of making a complaint, your rights under the HPOA, what to expect at each stage of the process including the investigation and disciplinary stages), how to access available support programs, and other relevant HPOA processes.
- Support Services: Access to trauma informed counselling services that are intended to reduce any harm from going through the complaint process.
- Support Worker: Access to someone who can help you understand and navigate the regulatory complaint process.
Support Workers and counsellors play distinct roles in the complaint process. They do not investigate complaints or decide outcomes, and they cannot act as your advocate or legal representative.
Mitigating harm from the complaint process
Taking part in the regulatory complaints process can be difficult, and especially so when the complaint involves sexual misconduct, sexual abuse, or discrimination. You may be asked to share personal information, recall past events, or read and discuss material that can be upsetting.
The available services can provide clear information and practical support to help you understand and participate in the process. The goal is to reduce additional distress that may arise from the steps in the process, the questions you may be asked, or the issues under review, while you participate as the complainant.