NNAS Complete - What Did BCCNM Have to Say?
I received my NNAS report on January 4, 2020. After that, on the same day, I applied to BCCNP.
I created an account on the BCCNP Website and applied for them to review my application. BCCNP responded on THE SAME DAY (January 4) with the next steps to take.
The BCCNP Steps:
The next steps included inputting the number of hours worked I had worked as an RN in the past 5 years. Following this, there was an English fluency requirement and space to type why I should be exempt from an English exam. I informed that I am from England, only speak English etc. Following this, it lead to ask for payment which was $126 (including tax).
BCCNP then emailed me A FEW HOURS LATER (on January 4) informing me that I met the English fluency requirement. Subsequently, they sent a link for me to pay the next part of the application ($504 including tax).
The efficiency of BCCNP had already impressed me!
I then waited for their verdict, of course expecting it to take months. But, to my surprise, BCCNP responded on January 7, this was only 3 days after my initial application!
Their review lead them to refer for me to complete the National Community Assessment Service (NCAS).
My Response:
I was so upset.
I thought the battle was over and I could be a nurse in no time.
But no. I now find out that I have to complete a 2 part exam that costs $2000!
I of course messaged BCCNP to see if they had correctly reviewed my file as I had a comparable NCAS result, and had 4 years RN experience under my belt. In addition, I inquired to whether there were any alternative courses I could complete instead of this $2000 assessment.
They responded with a detailed email which stated that they use NCAS as there are variations in scope of practice. They informed that NCAS is a competency assessment which comprehensively assesses knowledge, skills and abilities against the competencies required for entry level RN practice in BC.
Although I've come to terms with the fact that I will have to sit the NCAS assessment, it still upsets me.
The fact that this process is taking even more of my money and time. In addition, I have found out that even after this assessment, it's very unlikely that I'll be able to be a nurse right away.
I know this because NCAS is there to finds gaps in your knowledge. Once the gaps in your knowledge are identified, BCCNP refer you to complete transitional courses to fill the gaps. These courses can be anywhere from a 1 year bridging course, to individual courses, to completing the whole degree again!
My Thoughts:
Instead of going through the NNAS, NCAS route, I really wish BCCNP offered a transitional course for international nurses to take from the offset! I would have much rather been learning than just sitting, waiting and spending more and more $.
Until Next Time:
The next post will be about NCAS, and the information that I have found out about it so far. Watch this space...