In November 2023, the Nova Scotia Government developed a legislative framework requiring all health profession regulators to transition to the new Regulated Health Professions Act (RHPA) over a two-year period. In January 2024, the Government notified the Midwifery Regulatory Council of Nova Scotia (MRCNS) and the Nova Scotia College of Nursing (NSCN) they would also be required to amalgamate to create a multi-profession regulator for both the midwifery and nursing professions. Both of these initiatives are expected to take place in June 2026.
While directed by government to amalgamate, the work required to create the new regulator has been a shared and mutual commitment by MRCNS and NSCN.
“The regulatory environment is ever-changing, and it enables us to evolve and strengthen the work we do to benefit the public,” says Douglas Bungay, NSCN CEO & Registrar. “The amalgamation between NSCN and MRCNS will enable us to come together and provide the public with greater consistency, transparency, and efficiency as one regulator versus two.”
Midwives and nurses are autonomous health care professionals and distinct professions. What unites both regulators in their pursuit of the new multi-profession regulator is their shared mandate to regulate in the public interest and promote public safety.
“While the amalgamation is anticipated to take place in mid-2026, the work to prepare for the new Act and migration has been ongoing for well over a year,” says MRCNS Executive Director and Registrar, Jenny Wright. “I am proud that the entire process has been very collaborative at both the Council, Board and staff levels, and this partnership will well position the future regulator for the health care community and all Nova Scotians.”
Have questions about the future of the new multi-profession regulator? Let us know by emailing communications@nscn.ca.
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