Common questions about the peer review process are answered below. If you can't find the information you need, please email np-review@bccnm.ca or call 604.742.6540 (1.866.880.7101 ext. 6540 toll-free in Canada only).
- Does the review happen virtually or in-person?
- Most peer reviews are completed virtually. Onsite reviews will only be scheduled if a virtual review is not possible.
- Can I request a deferral?
- The Quality Assurance team will consider requests to defer a peer review if:
- You are not working as a NP.
- You have not practised for a full year (e.g. you registered more than a year ago but only recently obtained NP employment).
- You have been on extended leave of absence (e.g. parental or medical leave, sabbatical).
If any of these apply to you, please contact BCCNM Quality Assurance at
np-review@bccnm.ca to request a deferral and describe why it is needed.
- Does the peer review include an observation of client encounters or patient care?
- No. The peer review is a review of your documentation using the
Chart Review Guidelines. The assessor will discuss the chart review results with you, including opportunities for practice improvement.
- What criteria will the assessor use to review my practice?
- The charts will be reviewed using
Chart Review Guidelines based on BCCNM
Practice Standards,Professional Standards,
NP Scope of Practice and
Entry-level competencies for NPs in Canada. As the tool is competency and standards-based, it can be applied to all streams of NP practice and in all practice settings.
- Who will know my results?
- Your results are for your use to support your professional development. We will not provide your results to your employer.
Quality Assurance program information is protected under the
Health Professions Act. Your assessment results are confidential and only available to you, the Quality Assurance Committee and authorized BCCNM Quality Assurance employees and assessors.
- Where does BCCNM get its legal authority to perform a review?
- Reviews are carried out in accordance with the
Health Professions Act,
BCCNM Bylaws, and BCCNM Quality Assurance Program policy. If you require further information please contact us.
- How will I know if I have a conflict of interest with my assessor?
- When an NP has a review, it's very important that the assessor is objective. We ask both the NP and the peer assessor to declare any actual, perceived or potential conflict of interest before scheduling a review. If a conflict of interest exists, a new assessor will be assigned.
Not sure if you have a conflict? Review the
Conflict of Interest Practice Standard for examples. If you need further guidance or assistance, please contact the
Quality Assurance team.