Why should I become a member??
Becoming a member of the NPAA means joining a growing and dynamic group of nurse practitioners advocating for role advancement in Alberta. It means joining a network of colleagues across practice settings and geography to strengthen practice, mentor, create opportunities and form lasting relationships. The NPAA is continuously working to be the single, unified voice of NPs in Alberta, and with each new member comes strength in numbers. This hard work has led to the NPAA being a member at the table with both Alberta Health Services and Alberta Health, and are now the first call from these key stakeholders when there are questions or needs.
Join us in this movement to create a system free of barriers, where each Albertan has equitable, full and direct access to NP services. Help us to ensure the next generation of NPs won’t face the same struggles and unlock the full potential we know the NP role holds.
What do my fees support?
Fees are kept as reasonable as possible, as our organization is completely volunteer led with minimal administrative costs. Because of this almost all fees go directly towards role advancement. This includes the hiring of a lobby group to advance the role and optimize interactions with key stakeholders in Alberta. Fees also include exclusive access to discounts, high-quality education opportunities, tool kits for lobbying/media/students and much more!
How can I get involved?
First and most importantly, become a member and ensure auto-enrolment from year to year. Once membership is confirmed, there are many ways to become involved such as:
- Joining one of our committees
- Becoming a board member
- Volunteering at the annual conference or other events
- Attending town-halls and the annual general meeting
- Using the NPAA toolkits to start or strengthen your own lobbying movement.
You can also get involved in the movement by advocating the role to both members of government and the public by using our tools and encouraging the public to create testimonials to showcase our members. Finally, follow us on social media and join the discussion!
How is the NPAA different from CRNA?
The NPAA is the only NP-led organization working hard to advocate for and advance the role of the NP in Alberta. CRNA has minimal NP representation and remain a minority in a sea of RNs, whereas the NPAA is 100% run-by and composed of NPs and student NPs in Alberta. CRNA is first and foremost our regulatory body whose main priority is to protect the public, trumping all other activity. This makes advocacy, even for the RNs, a difficult task due to the risk of conflict of interest. The NPAA on the other hand, works with all key stakeholders in Alberta to advocate for reduced barriers and equitable access to NPs. This is done solely through the hard work of the board with feedback and commitment of individual members and committees within the organization.
How are members kept up to date on the activities of NPAA?
The president reports monthly to the entire board on the activities and meetings that have occurred. The update is then sent out to members by email, social media platforms and posted on the website as well. There is and Annual General Meeting, which all members are invited to attend, typically happening at the end of the annual conference. The board also comes together for a full day just before the conference to onboard new board members and review bylaws, operations and the strategic plan. The AGM is where the NPAA board gives a review of the past year including activities, finances, and education. During the year, the board meets virtually until the conference.