Disciplinary Panel of the Newfoundland and Labrador College of Optometrists

Department

Authority

Remuneration

Purpose:

This Panel will hear complaints regarding licensed practitioners.

Structure:

The composition of the Disciplinary Panel shall reflect the cultural, ethnic, and regional diversity of the province.

The Panel shall consist of:

• Not less than six practitioners, who are not directors appointed by the Council
• Not less than three persons, who are not practitioners, who shall be appointed by the Minister to represent the public interest

Competency Profile:

Diversity in the backgrounds, skills, knowledge, and experience of appointed Disciplinary Panel members can enhance the effectiveness of a Panel by bringing a wider range of perspectives and knowledge. Examples may include:

• Knowledge of professional regulation
• Knowledge of the Optometric Act, 2012
• Ability to read, analyze, and critically evaluate evidence to render a decision as per the Legislation
• Ability to listen and work collaboratively as a team member
• Familiarity with the principals of good governance, including accountability, transparency, and ethical conduct
• Understanding the principals of fairness, maintaining confidentiality, and avoiding conflict of interest
• Flexibility and willingness to have a wider perspective on issues, and to consider others’ opinions
• Technological competency
• Backgrounds: governance, human relations, human resources, health care, legal expertise

Qualifications:

The following attributes are important considerations in selecting members:

• Demonstrated understanding of professional regulation
• Expressed interest in health care
• Experience with administrative decision-making, and decision writing
• Previous board/disciplinary panel experience
• High ethical standards and integrity
• Appreciation of the responsibilities to the public
• Flexible, responsive and willing to consider others’ opinions
• Capable of a broad perspective on issues, and to listen and work as a team member
• No direct or indirect conflict of interest
• Strong reasoning skills

Time Commitments:

Panel members are only required if there is a disciplinary matter or upon the call of the Chair.  A disciplinary matter will require approximately six to eight hours over a one-month period (hearing, deliberations and writing of the decision).

Term:

Members to the Disciplinary Panel shall be appointed for a term of three years.

Notwithstanding the expiry of their term, a member of the Disciplinary Panel continues to be a member until they are re-appointed, or their replacement is appointed. Persons appointed to the Disciplinary Panel may be reappointed.