Expedited Alternate Resolution

Expedited alternate resolution (EAR) is a process to resolve a complaint without a hearing, and in some cases, before an investigation. EAR requires that the complainant and the registrant agree to the process [Section 55(2)(a.1) and Section 55(2)(a) of the Health Professions Act (HPA)].  

Most commonly, EAR is resolution by way of a complaint resolution agreement (CRA), which is an agreement between the registrant and the College of Registered Nurses of Alberta (CRNA) [Section 55(2)(a.1)] and [Section 55(2)(a)] . There are two types of CRAs: 

• Non-disciplinary complaint resolution agreement (NDCRA) – a confidential agreement between the registrant and the CRNA that does not amount to a history of discipline.
• Disciplinary complaint resolution agreement (DCRA) – a non-confidential agreement where a summary is posted on the CRNA’s website and that amounts to a history of discipline.  

Either way, the CRA is between the registrant and the CRNA. The complainant is not a party to the CRA. CRAs include:  

• A brief history of the alleged conduct and the complaint management
• Admission and/or acknowledgement of conduct
• Remediation or sanction
• Conditions to be applied to the nurse’s permit
• Terms for noncompliance and other general terms 

Conditions remain on the registrant’s permit until they have been deemed compliant with the requirements of the CRA. Failure to comply with the terms of agreement may result in a referral to a hearing tribunal or to an additional complaint. 

Information provided on this page is provided to outline the complaints process and is not intended to replace legal advice.