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.

Vacancy Profile:

The Disciplinary Panel of the Newfoundland and Labrador College of Optometrists is seeking to fill at least three positions to represent the public interest. Expressions of interest are being sought from individuals who possess the background, experience and skill set identified in the board profile above and who can bring unique perspectives to the table. Consideration will also be given to a variety of demographic factors to ensure the College is representative of the population they serve.