MyCLHA
LPNs
What Requirements Will Regulated Health Care Aides Have to Meet?
Health Care Aide regulation comes into force on February 2, 2026
An important part of being regulated is following the requirements set by the government and the regulatory college. In this article, we will share with Health Care Aides (HCAs) a few of the documents that they will need to follow when they are regulated.
Please note that the final versions of standards of practice and code of ethics have not yet been approved. Once approved, these documents will be posted on the CLHA website. Versions of these documents for LPNs are viewable on the Knowledge Hub.
In This Article
<h3>What Is the <em>Health Professions Act</em>?</h3>
The <em>Health Professions Act</em> is the law for Alberta’s regulated health professions, which includes providers such as doctors, nurses, and dentists. This law allows health profession colleges such as the College of LPNs and HCAs of Alberta (CLHA) to establish requirements for registration, standards of practice, continuing competence and the complaints process.
HCAs will be officially included as a regulated profession in the <em>Health Professions Act</em> on February 2, 2026.
What Is a Code of Ethics?
The Code of Ethics for HCAs will lay out the ethical principles of the profession, which HCAs uphold and demonstrate as part of their practice. Examples of these principles may include:
- Person-centered care
- Physically, mentally, and emotionally safe care
- Client advocacy
- Self-reflection and well-being
- Working respectfully with others
What Are Standards of Practice?
Standards of practice for HCAs will lay out legal and professional expectations to support safe, competent, and ethical care. When regulated, these are some of the standards of practice that HCAs will have to follow.
- Standards of Practice for HCAs in Alberta
- Standards of Practice on Restricted Activities and Supervision Requirements
- Standards of Practice on Professional Boundaries
- Standards of Practice on Sexual Abuse, Sexual Misconduct, and Female Genital Mutilation
How Will These Requirements Change My Practice?
HCAs currently follow their employer requirements and any legislation that might apply to their workplace (for example, Protection for Persons in Care Act).
When regulation comes into force, the standards of practice and code of ethics will be common, province-wide requirements that all HCAs will need to follow, in addition to employer requirements and other legislation.
Employers, other health professionals, and members of the public will be able to view these standards on the CLHA’s website and know that HCAs are accountable professionals.
More Information Coming Soon
We will continue to share updates on HCA practice and responsibilities after regulation. Please contact us if you have any questions.