Posted on: May 31, 2023
The following has been sent to all Island Health Staff and Medical Staff on behalf of Sharon Torgerson, VP People
Speaking up when you are concerned about a problem in your workplace is the right thing to do. It supports Island Health’s C.A.R.E. Values, and the safety and well-being of our patients, communities and colleagues.
Employees have several pathways to report concerns in the workplace now. Effective June 1, 2023, new legislation called the Public Interest Disclosure Act (PIDA) will apply to all B.C. health authorities to provide an additional, optional pathway for reporting serious wrongdoing that is in the public interest.
WHAT IS HAPPENING
PIDA is B.C. legislation for current and former employees (including medical staff) of public sector organizations, including health authorities. PIDA provides mechanisms for investigating allegations of serious or systemic wrongdoing and for addressing any such wrongdoing that may be found. PIDA also provides legal protection from reprisal if you speak up about wrongdoing within your organization and protects your identity.
This legislation supports Recommendation #11 in the In Plain Sight report, that the B.C. government continue efforts to strengthen employee “speak up” culture throughout the entire health care system so employees can identify and disclose information related to Indigenous-specific racism or any other matter.
Please review Island Health’s PIDA resources on the new Report Wrongdoing Intranet page, including: Policy, Procedure and Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs).