Health Professional Regulation Modernized
The Ministry of Health recently announced the launch of an initiative for the Modernization of Health Professional Regulation, a “comprehensive reform designed to enhance Bermuda’s health professional regulatory framework.”
A spokesperson said, “On 25th September, the Ministry in collaboration with the Bermuda Health Council hosted a kick-off meeting with statutory board and committee members to announce the official launch of Modernization. The initiative marks the first major update to Bermuda’s health professional regulatory structure in decades. With several laws dating back to the mid-20th century, the current system is fragmented, overly complex and inconsistent across professions, leading to inefficiencies and, at times, frustration for patients, professionals, and the public.”
Tiara Carlington, Senior Programme Manager, Bermuda Health Council; Elisabeth Kast, Project Manager, Bermuda Health Council; Eshe Coleman, Programme Manager, Bermuda Health Council; The Hon. Kim N. Wilson, JP, MP, Minister of Health; Keechia Tuckett, Permanent Secretary, Ministry of Health; and Dr. Ricky Brathwaite, Chief Executive Officer, Bermuda Health Council. The group is pictured outside Brock Hall, Bermuda College, following the Modernization of Health Professional Regulation kick-off event held on 25th September 2025.
Kim Wilson, Minister of Health, stated: “We are working together to modernise our framework for health professional regulation so that it reflects the needs of our community and remains fit for purpose in the years ahead. This will be a collaborative, transparent process shaped by the expertise of our health regulator and our health service providers.
“The Bermuda Health Council is best positioned to lead this work, bringing the technical expertise, data insight, and regulatory experience needed to ensure reform is both effective and sustainable. The Ministry fully supports the Council in this important endeavour as we work together to strengthen accountability, improve quality, and build a health system that truly serves the people of Bermuda.”
The spokesperson said, “Reform will focus on five key areas:
- Health professional legislation and policy
- Board governance and operations
- Regulatory oversight and transparency
- Health professional standards and competencies
- Workforce strategy and capacity
Chairpersons Terricca Smith [Diagnostic Imaging Technologists], Nicole Blades [Occupational Therapists], and Shawnette Smith [Council for Allied Health Professions], recipients of appreciation gift baskets presented to the longest-serving statutory board members during the Modernization of Health Professional Regulation kick-off event held at Bermuda College on 25th September 2025.
“The initiative is a component of the Ministry’s broader efforts to strengthen the health system and achieve Universal Health Coverage [UHC]. Modernizing Bermuda’s regulatory structure aims to enhance efficiency and support UHC goals—such as improving patient outcomes, expanding access to care, strengthening the health workforce, promoting data-driven decision-making, and advancing integrated care.
“The Health Council will coordinate implementation support and work alongside the Ministry and statutory boards to guide the transition process. A collaborative process will guide the initiative, with input sought from health system regulatory authorities, health professionals, patients, and the public. Engagement opportunities will include focus groups, written submissions, and open consultations.
“Initial consultation with key stakeholders will commence in early 2026, with public consultation to follow.”
At the kick-off event in September, Minister of Health Kim Wilson noted: “This will not be reform imposed from above. It will be a collaborative, transparent process where the expertise of our health regulators and the voices of our people directly shape the new framework.”
The spokesperson said, “For more information and updates on the Modernizing Health Professional Regulation initiative, please visit healthcouncil.bm/engage, Open Consultations tab.”
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