Nurses Registration Act of Dominica
The Nurses Registration Act of Dominica is the primary legislation that governs the registration, licensing, and regulation of nurses and midwives across the island. Enacted to ensure the safety, competence, and professionalism of those practicing in the health sector, the Act provides the legal framework for nursing practice, establishes the regulatory authority, and sets standards for education, ethics, and discipline.
Objectives and Principles
The core objectives of the Nurses Registration Act are:
- To regulate the nursing and midwifery professions in Dominica.
- To establish and maintain a Register of Nurses and Midwives.
- To ensure that only qualified and competent individuals are allowed to practice.
- To provide for examinations, licensing, and continuing regulation.
- To protect patients and uphold standards of ethical practice.
The principles of the Act emphasize professionalism, accountability, and safeguarding the health and welfare of the Dominican public.
The General Nursing Council
The Act establishes the General Nursing Council of Dominica, which is tasked with:
- Maintaining the official Register of Nurses and Midwives.
- Setting entry requirements for registration and licensing.
- Administering examinations for local graduates.
- Recognizing qualifications earned abroad.
- Investigating complaints and disciplining members for professional misconduct.
- Advising the Minister of Health on matters related to the nursing profession.
The Council serves as the regulatory body ensuring that nurses are not only technically qualified but also meet high ethical standards.
Registration and Licensing
The Act specifies the requirements for becoming a registered nurse or midwife:
- Completion of an approved nursing or midwifery program, such as those offered by the Dominica State College or recognized foreign institutions.
- Successful passing of examinations prescribed or recognized by the General Nursing Council.
- Submission of required documentation, including birth certificate, proof of training, and good character references.
- Payment of the registration and licensing fees.
Foreign-trained nurses must submit their credentials for evaluation and may be subject to adaptation programs before registration.
The Act also makes provision for enrolled nursing assistants, allowing for tiered entry into the profession under supervision.
Renewal and Discipline
Licenses issued under the Act must be renewed annually. Nurses are required to pay renewal fees and maintain active practice. The Council may remove names from the Register for non-renewal, misconduct, or criminal conviction.
Disciplinary procedures under the Act include warnings, suspension, or cancellation of registration. These safeguards protect public safety while ensuring that the profession remains accountable.
Significance and Future Reforms
The Nurses Registration Act has provided a robust legal framework for nursing practice in Dominica for decades. However, reforms are under discussion to modernize the Act. Proposed updates include:
- Requiring continuing professional development (CPD) as a condition of renewal.
- Digitizing the registration process.
- Aligning with OECS harmonized health regulations to improve regional mobility of nurses.
- Strengthening enforcement of professional standards to address modern healthcare challenges.
The Act is critical to maintaining the integrity of the Health Sector of Dominica, ensuring that Dominican nurses meet both national and international expectations.