Representing You @ the HSA Professional Associations Meeting

June 2013- CAOT-BC represented occupational therapists at the June meeting of the Health Sciences Association (HSA) professional associations. 

HSA represents over 17,000 professionals who work in health care and community social services. Almost 1000 of these professionals are occupational therapists.

Present at the meeting were representatives from most of the health science professions represented by HSA including: occupational therapists, social workers, physiotherapists, medical laboratory technologists, medical imaging technologists, respiratory therapists, pharmacists, speech language pathologists, cardiology technologists and psychologists. 

CAOT-BC raised the issues of inclusion of occupational therapy services in extended medical benefits plans, support for fieldwork placements, reduced access to education funding as well as pay differences between occupational therapists (MOT vs Bachelor OT).

The issue of reduced access to education funding from the employer was echoed by other health science professionals as was concern for the shift to the 37.5 hour work week.  Regarding access to professional development, HSA indicated that they offer funding through a Professional Development Fund and members can find out more at the HSA website. The deadline for applications is September 30, 2013.

HSA reported that in the most recent bargaining, the issue that was most raised by members was a desire for increase in pay, not an increase in benefits. It was reported that the employer demonstrated little interest in adding benefits to extended health plans.

CAOT-BC was advised that if HSA members wish to raise concerns for consideration during bargaining, they should contact their local chapters. It was reported that the next bargaining proposal conference is scheduled for November 2013 and any comments should be forwarded over the next couple of months.

To find out more about recent HSA activities, please review the April 2013 newsletter. 

CAOT-BC will continue to represent occupational therapists at the next HSA meeting scheduled for December 2013. If you have any comments or suggestions, please leave a note on this post or send us an email.