At its May meeting, the Engineers Canada Board approved a new National Position Statement addressing professional practice in the field of biomedical engineering.
Biomedical engineering is a rapidly evolving field, and there is an increasing need for licensed biomedical engineers who can apply their knowledge of engineering principles and practices to the planning, design, development, and evaluation of medical devices, equipment, materials, and therapies. For example, with the aging Canadian population, there is increased demand for medical devices and associated treatments that can help older individuals maintain their independence and quality of life. Additionally, advancements in technology enable the development of new therapies and devices. Consequently, this drives demand for licensed biomedical engineers who can help to plan, design, develop, and evaluate these new therapies and devices.
The new National Position Statement emphasizes the importance of regulating the field of biomedical engineering to ensure the safety and efficacy of medical devices and associated therapies protecting the public from any potential harm. Recognizing the authority of the 12 provincial and territorial engineering regulators, who have been delegated the responsibility of regulating the engineering profession by their respective governments, is crucial for serving the Canadian public effectively. The licensing of biomedical engineers by these regulators ensures that only qualified and competent individuals can practice in the field and provides a mechanism for disciplining those who engage in unethical or unsafe practices. This helps maintain the integrity of the profession and protects the public.
Given that biomedical engineering is a critical and rapidly expanding discipline with significant potential to greatly enhance healthcare and the quality of life of Canadians, Engineers Canada calls on the federal government to involve professional engineers in the development or revision of legislation and regulations related to biomedical engineering or biomedical engineers.
Engineers Canada’s National Position Statements are consensus positions of the provincial and territorial engineering regulators on key issues that relate to the public interest. These statements serve not only to inform members of the engineering profession about key issues but are also meant to facilitate discussion with government and influence public policy.
Read the full National Position Statement on Engineers Canada’s website.
