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2010 ANNUAL REPORT

ALBERTA COLLEGE OF MEDICAL LABORATORY TECHNOLOGISTS

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3 President and Executive Director Message

4 Public Members’ Report

5 College Foundation Policies

6 College Council and Staff

7 Structural and Functional Organization Charts

8 Governance

9 Registration of College Members

13 Continuing Competence Program

17 Complaints and Discipline

18 Other Activities

19 Financial Information

Table of Contents

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Upon reflection, 2010 was a year marked by change as

is customary for regulatory health care Colleges. Many

changes were compelled by government and legislation,

such as the Health Information Act amendments, the

Ministers Advisory Committee on Health recommendations,

and the Foreign Qualification Recognition Plan (FQR

Plan). However, there were also internal changes driven

by the shift in the Alberta College of Medical Laboratory

Technologists (College) Council to focus primarily on a

culture of regulatory commitments and a less prominent

focus on member services, or those services offered by

member-based organizations.

In relation to government changes, of particular note for

the College is the advancement of the FQR Plan. The

FQR Plan was launched in November 2008 and Medical

Laboratory Technologists (MLTs) were one of eight targeted

professions selected to meet the Pan-Canadian framework

criteria by December 31, 2010. This framework for foreign

qualification recognition is principle-based (practices must

be fair, transparent, timely, and consistent), collaborative,

and results-focused.

The College has long partnered with our national

certification body, the Canadian Society for Medical

Laboratory Science (CSMLS) to evaluate and assess the

professional portfolio of Internationally Educated Medical

Laboratory Technologists (IEMLTs). The Prior Learning

Assessment process (PLA) established by the CSMLS in

1999 has been adopted nationally and provides a single

point of access for the standardized assessment of

academic credentials, language proficiency, clinical training,

and work experience. The CSMLS has also made significant

advancements to provide immigrants tools to aid in their

integration into the Canadian workforce. For example,

individuals are permitted to initiate the PLA process from

their home country, the creation of a loan library program,

the development of an online self-assessment tool for

readiness, and research on language assessment tools and

benchmarks necessary for success of IEMLTs. The new

reporting requirement for the College is contained in the

Registration Report on page 10.

The College has worked closely with Alberta Employment

and Immigration to ensure IEMLTs have access to current,

accurate, and understandable information about the

College and the process for MLT registration in the

province. MLT fact sheets are posted on the Alberta-

Canada Immigration web portal and can be viewed at

www.alberta-canada.com/immigration/working/

occupations-regulated-professions.html.

A second area of considerable change and discussion in

2010 for College Council was the topic of “dual agency”

or the combined role of a regulatory body and an

association. This dual role was assumed by the College

when it morphed from the Alberta Society of Medical

Laboratory Technologists to the Alberta College of Medical

Laboratory Technologists in 2002 pursuant to the Health

Professions Act. College Council endeavoured to fulfill

its newly acquired public-interest functions of enforcing

registration standards, monitoring continuing competence,

and adjudicating complaints of unprofessional conduct

while trying to balance the expectations members had of

their former society. Each year it has become increasingly

difficult to maintain the delicate ethical and moral balance

between the sometimes competing interests of the

members and the public. Self-regulation is a privilege

granted by government and it is based on the premise that

determining the qualifications to ensure a practitioner is

practicing safely, competently, and ethically is best done

by other members of that profession. However, there is

increasing concern by government and the public that

professions are self-interested and regulate considering the

interests of their fellow professionals rather than the best

interests of the public. Furthermore, there are increasing

financial costs associated with investigations and hearing

tribunals in complaints of unprofessional conduct which

necessitates the movement of the College towards a

strictly regulatory organization with limited human and

financial resources remaining for member services. In the

other regulated provinces across the country, MLTs have

created associations and societies independent from

their regulatory College to promote and advance their

self-interests. Is there the potential for the creation of an

Alberta society.......only time will tell?

The contents of this Annual Report have developed under

the direction of and approved by College Council. The

information and data contained in the Annual Report is

reflective of College activities from January 1 to December

31, 2010 inclusive.

This report can be viewed or downloaded from the

College website at www.acmlt.org under Member Access

> Publications > 2010 Annual Report or a copy may be

requested at info@acmlt.org.

Darcy Gara, MLT

College 2010 President

Lori Kmet, MLT, BSc (MLS), MBA

Executive Director/Registrar/

Complaints Director

President and Executive Director Message

Members of the Alberta College of Medical Laboratory

Technologists (College) are well versed in the challenges

facing Alberta’s healthcare system. Whether it is

centralization of administration, operational transformation,

or the adage of “do more, with less”, any change

contributes to the complex nature of providing patients

with excellent health care. In conjunction with elected

College Council members, the College’s government-

appointed Public Members have taken an active role in

reviewing and responding to initiatives put forth by Alberta

Health Services and Alberta Health and Wellness.

In addition to our governance role on the College

Council, Alberta’s Public Members have an additional

responsibility to support public safety and protection by

observing, questioning, and challenging issues related to

the regulation of Medical Laboratory Technologists (MLTs)

and to ensure public accountability and consultation on all

relevant matters. We have been impressed with the efforts

made by the College to promote patient safety within

the membership by fostering a culture of awareness and

professionalism for all medical laboratory professionals,

including MLTs and Medical Laboratory Assistants (MLAs).

Moving forward, our College’s 2400 MLTs need to continue

to pursue improvements to quality patient care and

to demonstrate a strong commitment to professional

excellence. We are inspired by the many volunteers who

already give so willingly of their time and energy to support

the profession; however, more MLTs are needed to serve on

Council and committees. There is never a better time than

right now for members to step forward and take an active

role in the College and its future.

Another focus for excellence must be a commitment to

support refinement and continuous improvement of the

Continuing Competence Program (CCP), which sets out a

process to ensure every laboratory professional meets the

standards of practice that will ensure public and personal

safety. MLT expertise and involvement is paramount to

incorporate developing and advancing fields in laboratory

medicine where the MLT skill set is necessary and the

CCP is reflective of this. MLTs are indeed fortunate and

privileged to be able to directly monitor their professional

development and practice, and set and maintain high

standards for the profession.

Finally, the shortage of qualified professionals remains a

great threat to patient safety. We must identify innovative

means to attract young people, ensure the training is

relevant, the work is fulfilling, and the compensation is

competitive. Once individuals join the profession, we

need to help them remain committed by allowing them

to experience realistic challenges, encouraging them to

grow, inviting them to share their skills and potential, and

mentoring them in career advancement.

Without question, the College and its membership have

dedicated themselves to the task of providing excellent

health care to Albertans and we acknowledge the high

quality we have observed.

As Public Members, we can attest MLTs, MLAs, other health

care professionals, and indeed, the general public are well

served by Council, members, and staff of the College. We

commend our colleagues for their endeavours.

Public Members’ Report

Barry Finkelman Kenneth Gall Victor Fernandez

Public Member Jan – Mar 2010 Public Member 2010 Public Member 2010

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VisionThe Alberta College of Medical Laboratory Technologists is a recognized leader

in the regulation and governance of healthcare services. As a trusted partner in

healthcare regulation, the College enhances safety and public protection for all

Albertans, and fosters pride and professionalism among its members.

MissionTo ensure public protection through the regulation of Medical Laboratory

Technologists and to provide leadership for the advancement of the profession.

Core Values

Integrity – We adhere to the

College’s Code of Conduct.

Respect – We treat others with

fairness and dignity.

Accountability – We take

responsibility for our actions.

Sustainability – We exercise

responsible resource management.

Commitment – We are dedicated to

providing excellent service.

Openness – We are accessible,

approachable, transparent, and clear

in our actions.

Innovation – We build on successful

ideas, and explore and implement new

ideas.

College Foundation Policies

2010 College Council

2010 College Staff

Back Row: Ken Gall - Public Member,

Judy Welke, Mik Mousouliotis, Leila

Kipke, Dan Woods

Front Row: Christina Dixon – Past

President, Darcy Gara – President,

Myron Pilip – President Elect

Avaleen Petryk

Executive Assistant

Sharon Semeniuk

Finance Manager

Lori Kmet

Executive Director/

Registrar/Complaints

Director

Gloria Graham

Hearings Director

Larissa Fadish

Manager of

Professional Practice

and Competence/

Deputy Registrar

Missing: Marlene Cairney, Victor

Fernandez – Public Member, Barry

Finkelman – Public Member, Melody

Montgomery, Dixie Nielson – MLA

Representative

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Structural Organizational Chart

Functional Organizational Chart

Minister of Health

Registration Committee

Legislation Sub-Committee

Hearings Director

Hearings Director

Executive Assistant

Competence Committee

Executive Assistant

9 Elected COUNCILORS 1 Appointed MED LAB

ASSISTANT

MEMBERSHIP

Admin Support Payroll

College Publications Benefits Program

Registration Database

Accounts Payable / Receivable

College Website Finance Audit

Finance Manager

Finance Manager

3 Appointed PUBLIC COUNCILORS

PUBLIC

MLT Regulation

COLLEGE

COLLEGE

COUNCIL

COUNCIL College Bylaws, Policies, Procedures

Manager of Professional Practice and Competence / Deputy Registrar

Manager of Professional Practice and Competence / Deputy Registrar

Continuing Competence Program

Membership Registration

Professional Development Program

Executive Director / Registrar Complaints Director / Privacy Officer

Executive Director / Registrar Complaints Director / Privacy Officer

Health Professions ActRegulated Member

Resource List

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Governance

College Council manages and conducts the activities of

the College and exercises its rights, powers, duties, and

privileges to ensure regulatory compliance in all matters.

The 2010 College Council was comprised of the president,

president-elect, past-president, nine elected councilors,

three public members as appointed by the government in

accordance with the Health Professions Act (HPA), and a

Medical Laboratory Assistant (MLA) representative as an

advisor to Council on MLA-related matters. The Legislation

Sub-committee comprised of five regulated members

including the president-elect and past-president, reviewed

and recommended revisions to College Bylaws and policies

in consultation with the Executive Director/Registrar and

legal counsel for College Council approval. The following

regulatory changes occurred in 2010:

• CollegeCouncilapprovedchangestotheSubstantial

Equivalency route to MLT registration application

requirements

• CollegeBylawswereamendedandapprovedbythe

membership at the 2010 Annual General Meeting in

September

In January 2008, the College submitted a proposal to the

provincial government for the regulation of MLAs. This

report was prepared by the MLA Regulation Steering

Committee as per sections 25 and 26 of the HPA. The

College position stated the designation of MLAs as a

category of medical professionals served the interests

of public protection and safety. Feedback and direction

was pending at the close of 2010 as the government was

in the process of creating a general policy to guide the

regulation of all assistants under the HPA. Until this policy

was in place, the government would not review the College

proposal, and would not seek direction from the Minister

regarding regulation of MLAs under the HPA.

In March 2008, the College submitted a proposal to the

provincial government for revisions to the restricted

activities list in the Government Organization Act (GOA).

Laboratory medicine, like other health disciplines, has

become increasingly complex over the last ten years since

restricted activities were first drafted. This document

highlighted a list of specific restricted activities to be

added to the GOA and the MLT Profession Regulation,

including reporting an ABO blood group for the purposes

of transfusion or transplantation; performing and reporting

manual cell identification of fixed cell samples and

cerebral spinal fluid samples; selecting appropriate and/

or representative tissue or cell samples for investigation;

reporting antibiotic susceptibility; drawing venous blood;

and the addition of a definition for reporting (to release a

test result verbally, electronically, or in writing to another

health care professional for the purposes of patient

diagnosis or treatment). The government had tentatively

planned stakeholder working group sessions for early 2010,

but these discussions have not occurred.

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The College annual practice permit renewal process

was in its fifth year running concurrently with the

annual submission of documents in compliance with the

Continuing Competence Program (CCP). The College

renewal process is on-line and as a result captures

membership demographics for both Alberta Health and

Wellness and their Alberta Provider Directory (ABPD)

Source Uptake Project and the Canadian Institute of Health

Information (CIHI) as part of their Health Human Resources

Databases Development Project (HHRDDP) which includes

MLTs from across Canada. The HHRDDP addresses

information gaps through the development of national,

supply-based databases and reporting systems for five

regulated health professions, including Medical Laboratory

Technologists, Pharmacists, Physiotherapists, Medical

Radiation Technologists, and Occupational Therapists.

The effective management of health human resources

requires access to accurate, comparable, and timely data

on medical professionals; therefore, the College invested a

significant amount of resources in 2010 to further modify

the existing database, including the on-line annual practice

permit renewal process to capture additional demographic,

educational, geographical, and employment information.

Description/Register Number Explanation

Full Standing Regulated MLT Practice Permits· General MLT Register· Diagnostic Cytology Register· Clinical Genetics Register· Provisional Register· Courtesy Register (Canadian Blood Services pandemic workload)

219510939(47)4

May be included on the Full Standing Register

Conditional Practice Permits (18) May be included on the Full Standing Register

Substantial Equivalence (SE) Route to MLT Registration· Applicants approved with practicing restrictions· Applicants denied· Applications in process· Applications withdrawn

7020

Voluntary Members· Associate· Retired· MLA

3720136

Honorary Members 0

Initial Applicants 100 May include new grads, out of province, out of country

New Graduates 69

Reinstatements (individuals returning after a one year or more absence)

19 May include out of province, out of country

Out of Province Applicants 15

Out of Country Applicants 10

TOTAL COLLEGE MEMBERS (includes full standing members, conditional practice permits, successful SE applicants, voluntary members, and honorary members) 2610

Registration Application Decision Appeals to Council 0

The following table summarizes registration data from the 2010 membership year.

Registration of College Members

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Description Number Explanation

Extended Leave 4 Educational, long term disability, etc.

Cancelled 96 No communication, no payment of annual dues

Left the MLT Work Environment 14

Moved 20 Moved out of province or country

Retired 21

Deceased 0

TOTAL 155

The following table summarizes reasons for 2009 MLT practice permits not renewed for the 2010 membership year.

The following table summarizes age demographic data from the 2010 membership year and also includes historical data highlighting trends in the medical laboratory profession (note: values are expressed as percentages).

AGES 20-29 AGES 30-39 AGES 40-49 AGES 50-54 AGES 55-59 AGES 60-70 TOTAL MLTs

2005 9 24 35 16 11 5 2267

2006 9 24 34 17 11 5 2351

2007 11 20 33 15 15 6 2358

2008 12 21 33 18 11 5 2394

2009 11 21 30 30 8 0 2443

2010 11 20 29 16 15 9 2416

Internationally Educated Medical Laboratory Technologists Working in AlbertaThere was a new reporting requirement in 2010 under the

Foreign Qualifications Recognition Plan (FQR Plan) for the

College to gather data on MLTs formally educated outside

of Canada. The College worked with Alberta Employment

and Immigration to develop a standardized reporting

template that would accurately capture key elements

related to the assessment and licensing of foreign-qualified

applicants or Internationally Educated Medical Laboratory

Technologists (IEMLTs). Various government departments,

such as Alberta Employment and Immigration and Alberta

Health and Wellness will use this data to support ongoing

improvements to the foreign qualification assessment

system for IEMLTs including:

• Identifyinginformationresourcesandsupports

on specific countries and qualifications that could

support professional regulatory organizations in the

assessment of foreign credentials;

• Developingappropriate“bridgetolicensure”

programs to assist foreign-qualified applicants to

meet the standards in Alberta;

• Implementingstrategicsupportservicesfor

immigrants during the registration/licensing process;

and,

• Supportingasystem-widediscussionandsharing

of information on best practices related to foreign

qualification assessment and approaches and

procedures.

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Country of Education Egypt, Guyana, India, Iran, Nigeria, Pakistan, Philippines*, South Africa, Sri Lanka, Zaire *Highest number of applicants.

Number of New Applications Received in 2010

33

Total Number of Applications Open (New and Ongoing)

20 applicants from 2010 (all require additional documentation to be forwarded to assessment)

Total Number of Applications Forwarded to Assessment

13 applicants from 2010 were assessed for the first-time

29 first-time assessment were processed (including ongoing applicants from previous years)

40 applicants were reassessed (required coursework completion, appeal in process or consideration of supplemental documentation, or reactivation of expired assessment)

Number of Applicants Meeting ALL Requirements

1 applicant from 2010 deemed equivalent upon first assessment

35 applicants (upon completion of refresher courses) deemed equivalent upon reassessment

Number of Applicants NOT Meeting ALL Requirements

12 applicants from 2010 were required to complete refresher coursework (did not meet educational standards and/or minimum work/clinical experience)

1 (of the 12 applicants) did not meet English language proficiency

28 of the 29 first-time assessments processed required refresher coursework

Registration as an IEMLT in Alberta is a two-step process

which involves the Canadian Society for Medical Laboratory

Science (CSMLS) and the regulatory College. Initially

IEMLTs are directed to the CSMLS to undergo a Prior

Learning Assessment (PLA) which involves the submission

of documentation and the assessment of academic

credentials, language proficiency, clinical training, and

work experience. Depending upon the length of time

an individual needs to obtain documentation (including

original transcripts from country of formal post-secondary

education), and the number of refresher courses required

to address outstanding competencies, the PLA process can

extend 2-3 years, averaging 18 months for most applicants.

The following tables summarize data on IEMLTs and represent figures obtained from the CSMLS. CSMLS data refers to 2010 applicants, but also includes those individuals who initiated the PLA process preceding 2010 as the process usually spans multiple calendar years.

Number of Applicants Who Did NOT Pass CSMLS Certification Examination

Number of Applicants Who Did Pass CSMLS Certification Examination

prior to 2010 30 15 (three passed on first attempt)

2010 0 0

*Note: Applicants can challenge the CSMLS certification examination three times and are then required to complete a learning plan and refresher coursework. Applicants can challenge the examination an additional three times. If an individual is unsuccessful in six attempts, he/she must complete an accredited formal MLT training program of study from a recognized Canadian educational institution.

Once an IEMLT has successfully completed the PLA and

is granted permission to challenge the CSMLS national

certification examination, he/she is eligible to apply for a

one-year Provisional Practice Permit with the College. Prior

to the expiry of this one-year period, an individual must

provide proof of CSMLS certification and 900 MLT hours

to the College, and upon receipt of this documentation an

individual will be upgraded to a full-standing MLT Practice

Permit. If an individual has successfully challenged the

CSMLS certification examination prior to applying for

registration with the College, he/she can apply for a one-

year Conditional Practice Permit to obtain the 900 MLT

hours required in the initial registration year.

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The following table summarizes College data regarding 2010 MLT Practice Permits issued to IEMLTs.

*Note: Applicants that upgrade from an alternate class of registration to a full standing permit have the ability to practice without limitations/conditions. As IEMLTs are given Provisional and Conditional Practice Permits valid for one year most meet conditions and upgrade in the subsequent calendar year.

Pursuant to section 31(1) of the Health Professions Act,

applicants have a formal appeal process which states “an

applicant whose application for registration is accepted

subject to conditions or whose registration is deferred or

whose application is refused by the registrar, registration

committee, or competence committee may, within 30

days after being given a copy of the decision, request a

review by the council in accordance with subsection (3)”.

Furthermore, section 31(3) states “a request for review must

be in writing, set out the reasons why the applications for

registration should be approved with or without conditions,

and be given to the registrar, who must give a copy of the

request to the council”. In 2010, the College did not receive

any requests for registration decision appeals from IEMLTs.

Registration CommitteeThe Registration Committee is a standing regulatory

committee whose purpose is to determine eligibility for

MLT registration and voluntary membership with the

College for those applications that do not clearly meet the

registration criteria as provided for in current legislation.

The Registration Committee is comprised of seven

regulated MLT members, including MLT educators and two

MLA representatives. This committee is primarily involved

in decisions regarding individuals that apply for registration

with the College via the Substantial Equivalence (SE)

route as provided for in the Health Professions Act and

the MLT Profession Regulation. These individuals are not

eligible for the primary route to registration; therefore, they

cannot challenge the national certification examination as

administered by the CSMLS as they have not completed an

accredited medical laboratory training program. Applicants

seeking SE MLT registration with the College must satisfy

Registration Committee requirements and demonstrate

a combination of formal education (minimum Bachelor

of Science), work experience/practice, professional

development, and other qualifications are at the

competence level required for registration as a regulated

member.

In 2008, the College also partnered with the Southern

Alberta Institute of Technology (SAIT) to create an

examination for individuals seeking SE MLT registration

as an alternative to successful completion of multiple

supplemental courses to satisfy the Registration Committee

requirements. This examination focused on specimen

collection and handling, safety and infection control, and

quality management. These areas were identified as core

competencies in a MLTs formal education training program

not addressed sufficiently by an undergraduate degree

in the science field. In 2009, 28 SE applicants challenged

this examination and only two were unsuccessful in

their attempt. In 2010, 8 SE applicants challenged this

examination and 1 was unsuccessful.

Number of Applications

Registrations Denied

Registrations Approved

Full Standing Registrations

Alternative Classes of Registrations (Practice Permit)

Number of Applicants Upgraded to Full Standing Registrations*

10 0 10 2 2 Provisional (required CSMLS certification and 900 MLT work experience hours)

6 Conditional (required 900 MLT work experience hours)

0

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The College implemented the MLT Continuing Competence

Program (CCP) in 2007 in compliance with provisions set

out in section 50 of the Health Professions Act and sections

12.2, 12.3, and 12.4 of the MLT Profession Regulation,

as proclaimed, and which authorizes implementation,

compliance, and enforcement. The CCP ran concurrently

with the annual MLT practice permit renewal process

from September 15 to December 31 and resulted in the

simultaneous submission of annual practice permit dues

and member demographics with completed Learning

Plans for the current year and new Learning Plans for the

upcoming membership year. The College established an

escalating fee system to encourage early renewal to ensure

all practicing MLTs were in possession of valid registrations

prior to January 1st of the upcoming membership year.

In 2010, the College instituted Version II of the CCP for

the 2011 MLT practice permit renewal season. This version

incorporated feedback from stakeholders and members

and was approved by Alberta Health and Wellness in

May 2009. New initiatives and developments in Version

II include updates to the Self-Assessment form and MLT

Competence Profile (new competencies, such as Quality

Management and Laboratory Information Systems),

additional examples of acceptable completed Learning

Plans and Recording Log Sheets, and enhancements to the

annual College review and audit process.

The following charts summarize practice permit renewal statistics. The renewal year captures data for the upcoming practice permit year as MLT practice permits are issued prior to January 1 (e.g. 2010 data is reflective of 2011 practice permit renewals).

Percentage of Members

Completing Renewal Process

78%September 15 – October 31

17%November 1 - 30

5%December 1 - 31

Continuing Competence Program

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Renewal Year Type of Renewal Process Percentage of Members Percentage of Learning Plans without Error

Percentage of Learning Plan Requiring Correction

2008 On-line 89 84 16

Hard-copy 11 52 48

2009 On-line 100 91 9

2010 On-line 100 96 4

Note: In 2009, the College instituted mandatory on-line renewal for all MLT practice permits and hard-copy documents were no longer accepted. The decreased error rate for 2009/2010 is attributed to the standardized on-line reporting format and suspension of hard copy renewals. Corrective actions for Learning Plans were due to learning objectives not clearly identified, learning activities used for multiple learning objectives with an identical focus, learning objectives that did not correlate with the identified area of competence, and identical learning objectives simply restated from the previous year.

The following table summarizes the top ten competence profile areas (as identified by members) of learning and development for 2010 (2009 provided for comparison). The profile areas are in descending order of total responses received for on-line renewals (fall 2009 and 2010).

Cluster 2010 Profile Area Cluster 2009 Profile Area

A-3 Professional Development A-3 Professional Development

H-1 Routine Chemistry C-4 Analytical Principles and Procedures

I-1 Routine Hematology A-2 Communication and Interpersonal Skills

A-2 Communications and Interpersonal Skills C-2 Anatomy and Physiology

D-2 Quality Management B-1 General Laboratory Safety

B-1 General Laboratory Safety A-4 Leadership

J-1 Routine Bacteriology D-2 Quality Management

C-5 Equipment/Instrumentation C-5 Equipment / Instrumentation

C-2 Anatomy and Physiology A-5 Management Skills

A-5 Management Skills I-1 Routine Hematology

Note: The College received 9 requests to change Learning Plans throughout 2010 as members’ areas of practice and responsibility changed. All requests were approved by the College.

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Description 2007 2008 2009 2010

Total Number of CCP Participants** 2225 2236 2358 2264

Number Audited 67 68 77 81

% Audited (rounded) 3% 3% 3% 3%

Number with Successful Initial Audit (pass) 22 38 53 69

Number Requiring Remedial Work 38 25 21 10

Reasons for Remedial Work:

· Failure to Submit Documentation 11 10 7 4

· Incomplete Documentation 26 15 14 6

Number Forwarded to Complaints Director for Non-Compliance

0 0 0 n/a*

Extenuating Circumstances 1 0 0 1

Cancelled Audits 7 5 3 1

Average Annual CE hours/Audited Member 95 102 106 61

Continuing Competence Committee and the Annual Audit ProcessThe Continuing Competence Committee (CCC) is

a standing regulatory committee whose purpose is

to evaluate, assess, and monitor regulated member

compliance with the mandated Continuing Competence

Program as set out in current legislation via the annual

audit process. The CCC reviews cases that fall outside

of the established criteria for Continuing Competence

Program (CCP) compliance, provide direction to the

Registrar and Manager of Professional Practice and

Competence/Deputy Registrar (when required), and also

facilitate consultation with College members regarding

competence, professional development programs, and

continuing education opportunities. The CCC is comprised

of ten regulated MLT members representative of diverse

geographic areas throughout the province, multiple core

areas of practice, and a variety of workplace environments,

including educational institutions and public and private

laboratories.

College policy outlines the CCP operational framework

including an annual review which consists of the

compilation of program reports and documentation,

member file maintenance, and aggregate data reporting to

government. Three percent of practicing MLTs have been

audited in detail during each audit period. The annual audit

process is guided by the Manager of Professional Practice

and Competence/Deputy Registrar and relevant member

information, such as completed learning plans and evidence

of continued learning activities, is reviewed by the CCC. For

future audits, the College hopes to increase to five to eight

per cent of the membership to garner a better sense of

general overall compliance.

The following table summarizes audit statistics for the Continuing Competence Program for 2007 - 2010.

* 2010 participants will be audited in February 2011 (some results are unavailable at time of print)

** Total number of CCP participants is not reflective of total MLT membership as CCP participation is not required for Initial MLT Practice Permit applications

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The future focus for member’s continuing education and

competence will involve:

• Ongoingimplementation,monitoring,evaluation,and

reporting of the Continuing Competence Program

pursuant to legislation

• Collaboratingwithstakeholderstoincorporatenew

areas of practice and competence development

Professional Development Certificate ProgramThe College supports professional development (PD)

and continuing education programs that meet members’

learning needs in order to:

• Performdailytasksefficientlyandeffectively

• Protectthepublic

• Remaincurrentwithleadingedgetechnological

advancements

• Transitionintootherareasofpractice

• ComplywithconditionsonMLTpracticepermits

The following table summarizes the number of Professional Development Certificates from 2005 to 2010:

Year Number Issued Percentage Issued as a Requirement for Conditional Practice Permits

2005 82 18

2006 72 21

2007 65 14

2008 32 23

2009 23 17

2010 23 0

The College supports members’ continuing education by:

• ApprovingBursaryAwardstoqualifyingapplicantson

an annual basis

• PromotingeducationalofferingsinCollege

publications and on the College website at no charge

• SupportingandadministeringthevoluntaryPD

Certificate Program

• ProvidingfinancialsubsidyfortheCollegeAnnual

General Meeting/Professional Development

Symposium

Note: Professional Development Certificates were a requirement of some Conditional MLT Practice Permits. Once PD Certificates were issued, practice permits were upgraded to full standing without conditions and/or restrictions.

• ProvidingprogramcontentfortotheCollege

Professional Development Symposium

• Promotingpersonalandprofessionalportfolio

development of the general membership

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Description Number Explanation

Files Carried Forward From 2008

Files Carried Forward from 2009

3

3

Pending Hearing or written Hearing Tribunal decision.

New Complaints Received in 2010 7

Employer Complaints 13

Peer Complaints 0

Public Complaints 0

Complaints Dismissed 2 Insufficient evidence of “unprofessional conduct” as defined by the HPA.

Files Referred for Assessment Under Section 118 HPA 0

Files Referred to Investigation 11

Files Referred to Hearing Tribunal 9

Files Referred to Alternative Complaint Resolution (ACR) 0

Hearings Closed to Public 0

Complaint Review Committee Appeals 0

Files Closed During Year 5

The following table summarizes complaint data from the 2010 membership year.

The number and nature of cases of unprofessional conduct

for the College in 2010 were consistent with those reported

in 2008 and 2009. Many complaints involved members that

no longer reside in Alberta and/or Canada which resulted

in lengthy and costly investigations and hearings due to

long distance travel and communications. Additionally,

the complexity of the complaints increased with many

members having multiple charges against them and

Hearing Tribunals tasked with making difficult, multifaceted

decisions. In 2010, the College retained independent

legal counsel for the Hearing Tribunals to assist them in

addressing administrative and jurisdictional issues raised by

opposing legal counsels.

Complaints and Discipline

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Other Activities

The following Hearing Tribunal decisions were rendered

in 2010 and findings have been presented without the

publication of identifying information. The discipline

summaries are not intended to provide comprehensive

information on the complaint, details of the investigation,

or Hearing Tribunal proceedings; they are for educational

purposes only.

Case 1A Hearing Tribunal made a finding of unprofessional

conduct against a member who demonstrated inadequate

knowledge and competency to perform basic laboratory

procedures to minimum acceptable standards. The member

admitted to the unprofessional conduct and signed an

Agreed Statement of Facts and a Joint Submission on

Penalty in conjunction with the College. The Hearing

Tribunal ordered a formal reprimand be placed on the

member’s file for a period of four years. There were no fines

or cost orders. The Hearing Tribunal gave the following

reasons for the sanctions as: (i) member accepted full

responsibility for actions; (ii) member continues to take

actions to improve professional knowledge and abilities; (iii)

member cooperated throughout the investigation; and (iv)

member’s first finding of unprofessional conduct.

Alberta Federation of Regulated Health ProfessionsThe College has been a member of the Alberta Federation

of Regulated Health Professions (AFRHP) since 2005.

The AFRHP is a voluntary member-based organization

comprised of 24 health regulatory Colleges in the province.

Independently, each College is a public body created

by government to oversee Alberta’s regulated health

professions and protect the public by implementing,

administering, and enforcing health care legislation.

Collectively, members of the AFRHP promote leading

practice initiatives that foster public awareness and

professional accountability of our practitioners.

Case 2 A Hearing Tribunal made a finding of unprofessional

conduct against a member who demonstrated an inability

to perform basic Medical Laboratory Technologist duties

with some independence and accuracy. The member did

not attend the Hearing Tribunal Hearing to defend the

charge, but generally acknowledged the charges were

based on accurate facts. The Hearing Tribunal ordered

a reprimand in the form of the Hearing Tribunal decision

to be placed on the member’s file, completion of an

interpersonal communications course to be completed by

a specified date, and costs of $1,000 for costs associated

with the hearing and investigation.

Case 3 A Hearing Tribunal made a finding of unprofessional

conduct against a member who removed a blood specimen

from hospital premises without authorization, performed a

laboratory test on the specimen without a physician order,

violated an employer’s Code of Conduct and/or College

Standards of Practice and/or Code of Ethics by utilizing

employer resources for personal and/or family benefits, and

conveyed a laboratory test results to a family member to

secure treatment for another family member. The Hearing

Tribunal ordered the member to complete a professional

ethics course at their own personal cost, costs of $1,500,

and fines totaling $3,000 to be paid within six months from

the date of the Hearing Tribunal decision.

AFRHP members have established networks nationally and

internationally, and have developed a communal body of

knowledge, expertise, and information sharing to advance

the operations of each individual College. In 2010, the

College was also a member of the AFRHP’s Coordinating

Committee. In this capacity, the College was actively

involved in facilitating the management of all business

aspects of the AFRHP by coordinating meeting agendas

and activities, speaker presentations, and all financial affairs

of the AFRHP.

ALBERTA COLLEGE OF MEDICAL LABORATORY TECHNOLOGISTS

FINANCIAL STATEMENTS For The Year Ended December 31, 2010

and

AUDITOR’S REPORT To The Members

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INDEPENDENT AUDITOR’S REPORT

To the Members of Alberta College of Medical Laboratory Technologists:

We have audited the accompanying financial statements of Alberta College of Medical Laboratory Technologists which consist of the statement of financial position at December 31, 2010, and the statements of changes in net assets, operations, and cash flows for the year then ended, and a summary of significant accounting policies and other explanatory information.

Management’s Responsibility for the Financial Statements

Management is responsible for the preparation and fair presentation of the financial statements in accordance with Canadian generally accepted accounting principles, and for such internal control as management determines is necessary to enable the preparation of financial statements that are free from material misstatement, whether due to fraud or error.

Auditor’s Responsibility

Our responsibility is to express an opinion on these financial statements based on our audit. We conducted our audit in accordance with Canadian generally accepted auditing standards. Those standards require that we comply with ethical requirements and plan and perform the audit to obtain reasonable assurance about whether the financial statements are free from material misstatement.

An audit involves performing procedures to obtain audit evidence about the amounts and disclosures in the financial statements. The procedures selected depend on the auditor’s judgment, including the assessment of the risks of material misstatement of the financial statements, whether due to fraud or error. In making those risk assessments, the auditor considers internal control relevant to the entity’s preparation and fair presentation of the financial statements in order to design audit procedures that are appropriate in the circumstances, but not for the purpose of expressing an opinion on the effectiveness of the entity’s internal control. An audit also includes evaluating the appropriateness of accounting policies used and the reasonableness of accounting estimates made by management, as well as evaluating the overall presentation of the financial statements.

We believe that the audit evidence we have obtained is sufficient and appropriate to provide a basis for our audit opinion.

Audit Opinion

In our opinion, the financial statements present fairly, in all material respects, the financial position of Alberta College of Medical Laboratory Technologists as at December 31, 2010, and its financial performance and its cash flows for the year then ended in accordance with Canadian generally accepted accounting principles.

Edmonton, Alberta

March 12, 2011 Chartered Accountants

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ALBERTA COLLEGE OF MEDICAL LABORATORY TECHNOLOGISTS STATEMENT OF FINANCIAL POSITION AS AT DECEMBER 31, 2010

2010 2009

ASSETS

CURRENT ASSETS: Cash $ 386,388 414,896

Guaranteed investment certificates 1,944,132 1,542,475

Accounts receivable 600 5,145

Prepaid expenses 15,050 22,351

Total current assets 2,346,170 1,984,867

PROPERTY AND EQUIPMENT (Note 3) 68,180 51,598

TOTAL $2,414,350 $2,036,465

LIABILITIES AND NET ASSETS

CURRENT LIABILITIES: Accounts payable and accrued liabilities $ 58,239 74,126

Unearned membership fees 1,281,520 1,246,010

Total current liabilities 1,339,759 1,320,136

NET ASSETS: Invested in property and equipment 68,180 51,598

Internally restricted (Note 4) 800,068 300,068

Unrestricted 206,343 364,663

Total net assets 1,074,591 716,329

TOTAL $2,414,350 $2,036,465

Approved by Council:

Darcy Gara, 2010 President

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ALBERTA COLLEGE OF MEDICAL LABORATORY TECHNOLOGISTS STATEMENT OF CHANGES IN NET ASSETS FOR THE YEAR ENDED DECEMBER 31, 2010

Invested Internally In Property Restricted and Equipment (Note 4) Unrestricted 2010 2009

Balance at beginning of the year $ 51,598 $300,068 $364,663 $716,329 $ 682,203

Excess of (expenses) revenue

for the year (28,567) - 386,829 358,262 34,126

Proceeds on disposal of equipment (1,105) - 1,105 - -

Purchase of equipment 46,254 - (46,254) - -

Transfer to internally restricted - 500,000 (500,000) - -

Balance at end of the year $ 68,180 $800,068 $206,343 $1,074,591 $716,329

TOTAL

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ALBERTA COLLEGE OF MEDICAL LABORATORY TECHNOLOGISTS STATEMENT OF OPERATIONS FOR THE YEAR ENDED DECEMBER 31, 2010

2010 2009

REVENUE: Membership fees $1,331,462 $ 994,835

Sponsorships - annual general meeting 25,000 -

Convention - 101,043

Interest 27,564 27,285

Advertising and processing fees 10,831 16,231

Total revenue 1,394,857 1,139,394

EXPENSES: Amortization 28,567 28,747

Annual general meeting 59,546 8,377

Bank and credit card charges 44,634 51,422

Communications 10,043 3,537

Computer 15,108 17,184

Conduct - net of recoveries of $4,000 (2009 - $1,000) 182,100 106,359

Continuing competence 8,577 45,083

Convention - 148,612

Council 41,117 47,947

Deputy registrar 2,263 5,240

Insurance 5,420 4,081

Office 32,947 23,297

Postage and copying 27,374 32,355

Professional fees 27,200 23,632

Publications 8,358 11,223

Registrar 7,509 11,278

Registration 5,965 21,195

Rent and common area costs 76,310 56,419

Salaries and benefits 447,912 454,738

Telephone 5,645 4,542

Total expenses 1,036,595 1,105,268

EXCESS OF REVENUE (EXPENSES) FOR THE YEAR $ 358,262 $ 34,126

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ALBERTA COLLEGE OF MEDICAL LABORATORY TECHNOLOGISTS STATEMENT OF CASH FLOWS FOR THE YEAR ENDED DECEMBER 31, 2010

2010 2009

OPERATING ACTIVITIES: Cash from operations:

Excess of revenue for the year $ 358,262 $ 34,126

Items not involving cash for operations:

Amortization 28,567 28,747

Amortization of deferred lease inducement - (3,675)

386,829 59,198

Increase (decrease) in non-cash working capital balances

related to operations:

Accounts receivable 4,545 (3,685)

Prepaid expenses 7,301 (15,380)

Accounts payable and accrued liabilities (15,887) (62,648)

Unearned membership fees 35,510 390,850

Net cash from operating activities 418,298 368,335

INVESTING ACTIVITIES: Purchase of equipment (46,254) (13,991)

Proceeds on disposal of equipment 1,105 -

Increase in guaranteed investment certificates (401,657) (239,388)

Net cash used in investing activities (446,806) (253,379)

(DECREASE) INCREASE IN CASH DURING THE YEAR (28,508) 114,956

CASH AT BEGINNING OF THE YEAR 414,896 299,940

CASH AT END OF THE YEAR $ 386,388 $ 414,896

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ALBERTA COLLEGE OF MEDICAL LABORATORY TECHNOLOGISTS NOTES TO THE FINANCIAL STATEMENTS DECEMBER 31, 2010

1. PURPOSE OF COLLEGE:

The College regulates the practice of medical laboratory technology in a manner that protects

and serves the public interest. In fulfilling this role, the College establishes, maintains and enforces

standards for registration and continuing competence, standards of practice and a code of ethics

for the profession and investigates and acts on complaints.

2. ACCOUNTING POLICIES:

These financial statements have been prepared in accordance with Canadian generally accepted

accounting principles. The significant accounting policies are as follows:

Revenue recognition:

The College follows the deferral method of accounting for contributions. Restricted contributions

are recognized as revenue in the year in which the related expenses are incurred. Unrestricted

contributions are recognized as revenue when received or receivable if the amount to be received

can be reasonably assured.

Membership revenue is recognized in the year to which the membership fees relate. Revenue

from special activities is recognized when the function to which the revenue relates to has been

presented or completed. Conduct recoveries are recognized when received.

Interest revenue is recognized as it is earned.

Donated services:

The work of the College is dependent on the voluntary service of many individuals. Since these

services are not normally purchased by the College and because of the difficulty of determining

their fair value, donated services are not recognized in these financial statements.

Guaranteed investment certificates:

Guaranteed investment certificates are classified as held to maturity financial instruments and are

stated at the purchase amount plus accrued interest.

Property and equipment:

Property and equipment are stated at cost. Amortization is provided at the following

annual rates:

Computer hardware 30%

Computer software 50%

Office equipment and furniture 20%

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ALBERTA COLLEGE OF MEDICAL LABORATORY TECHNOLOGISTS NOTES TO THE FINANCIAL STATEMENTS DECEMBER 31, 2010

2. ACCOUNTING POLICIES (continued):

Cash and cash equivalents:

Cash and cash equivalents consist of balances with banks and short-term investments with

maturities not exceeding 90 days.

Use of estimates:

The preparation of financial statements in conformity with Canadian generally accepted

accounting principles requires management to make estimates and assumptions that affect the

reported amounts of assets and liabilities and disclosure of contingent assets and liabilities at the

date of the financial statements and the reported amounts of revenue and expenses during the

reporting period. Actual results could differ from those estimates.

3. PROPERTY AND EQUIPMENT:

The major categories of property and equipment and related accumulated amortization are as

follows:

Accumulated Net Book Value Cost Amortization 2010 2009

Computer hardware $ 18,986 $ 12,011 $ 6,975 $ 9,242

Computer software 140,018 112,838 27,180 23,159

Office equipment and furniture 62,623 28,598 34,025 17,722

Leasehold improvements 14,755 14,755 - 1,475

$236,382 $168,202 $68,180 $51,598

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ALBERTA COLLEGE OF MEDICAL LABORATORY TECHNOLOGISTS NOTES TO THE FINANCIAL STATEMENTS DECEMBER 31, 2010

4. NET ASSETS - INTERNALLY RESTRICTED:

By resolution of Council, funds have been internally restricted as follows:

2010 2009

Operating reserve $490,209 $290,209

Conduct contingency reserve 300,000 -

Bursary fund 9,859 9,859

Total $800,068 $300,068

The funds can only be expended upon approval by Council.

5. LEASE COMMITMENTS:

The college has committed to the rental of business premises under a lease agreement expiring

July 31, 2020. The minimum monthly rent payable is $6,233 to July 31, 2015 and $6,800 from July

31, 2015 to July 31, 2020.

The College is also responsible for its proportionate share of common area costs.

The College has also committed to a lease for office equipment requiring quarterly payments of

$2,130 to July, 2013.

6. FINANCIAL INSTRUMENTS:

The College’s financial instruments consist of cash, guaranteed investment certificates and

accounts payable and accrued liabilities. It is management’s opinion that the College is not

exposed to significant interest, currency or credit risks arising from these financial instruments.

The carrying values of the financial instruments approximate their fair values.

7. INCOME TAX STATUS:

The College is a non-profit organization within the meaning of the Income Tax Act (Canada) and

is exempt from income taxes.

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“Continuity gives us roots; change gives us branches, letting us stretch and grow and reach new heights.” P. R. Kezer