Here are some of the frequently asked questions about registration.
General
How long does the process of registration and licensure take to be completed?
Timelines may vary depending on the complexity of the application and date of
submission. Generally, after your application has been submitted, the Council must then
meet to consider all submitted applications for approval.
The Council meets every second Wednesday of each month. As a result, you may
expect a decision in the days following the meeting.
For specific timelines regarding your application, please contact us directly.
How long does it take to receive approval?
Notification of approval is given once the Council approves the application, and the
requisite licence and registration certificates are completed
What are the requirements for registration?
Requirements for registration may differ based on the registering profession, but
generally you must have a valid:
o Evidence of educational qualification
o Proof of Bahamian citizenship or
Certificate of Permanent Resident Status or
Valid Work Permit
o Licensed health professional statement
o Eligibility requirements of the Council per registering profession.
Why is a health certificate required by the Council from health professionals
applying for registration?
As a requirement for registration as a health professional in The Bahamas, one must be
a fit as stated per Section 21 (1) (c) Health Professions Act. If any registered person
upon inquiry by a Disciplinary Committee is found to be suffering from any illness
rendering him/her unfit to perform satisfactorily, services may be suspended for a period
not exceeding one year or removal of his/her name from the Register.
Is one required to be “licensed” as well as “registered” with the Health
Professions Council?
Yes, every person registered under Section 12 of the Act who desires to practice as a
health professional annually must be registered and licensed. Each licence issued is
valid for the year and will expire on the 31st day of December of that year. (The Act, Part
III, Section 13).
What happens to those health professionals who have not applied for registration
and continue to practice?
Any person who engages in any of the listed professions and is not registered and
licensed by the Health Professions Council will be liable to a penalty as per the Act Part
V, Section 21 (1) (b).
What happens to a person registered under the Act who performs health services
other than those in respect of which he/she is registered?
This person commits an offence and is liable on summary conviction to a fine as per the
Act Part V, Section 21 (2) (a) (b) (c).
What happens to a person not being a health professional who practices as a
health professional?
This person commits an offence and is liable on summary conviction to a fine as per the
Act Part V, Section 21 (2) (a) (b) (c)
How are complaints handled?
Complaints are best handled directly with health professionals in the respective
professional body. If this fails, a person can lobby their complaint to the HPC. A
Complaints and Investigating Committee was established by the Council and will
conduct a preliminary investigation into any complaint rendered. A Disciplinary
Committee was also established in the event of a case that must be referred.
Please contact us directly for further information.
Fees and payments
There are several payment options, HPC accepts bank transfers, in person payments
via cheque and cash or online through our registration portal.
Is there a fee for the Registration and Licensing of Health Professionals?
Is there a fee for the Registration and Licensing of Health Professionals?
How are fees (i.e., Fee Schedule) determined?
The First Schedule of the Health Professions (General) Regulations lists the fees
payable under the Act and Regulations
What happens if a person fails to pay the annual licence fee?
If a health professional fails to renew his/her licence by the 31st day of March, in any
year, they shall be deemed not registered under the Act
