Why RNAO members need PLP and LAP

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RNAO membership renewal season may have passed, but it’s not too late to ensure you have the comprehensive protection you need for your nursing practice.

If you’ve renewed your RNAO membership but haven’t yet enrolled in the optional Legal Assistance Program (LAP®), now is the time to act. While your membership automatically includes professional liability protection (PLP) which is mandatory to practise in Ontario; having LAP protects you from other legal risks.

Here’s a reminder of the key differences between PLP and LAP, and why having both is essential for your professional security and peace of mind.

What does PLP cover?

RNAO’s PLP, automatically included with membership, fully meets the College of Nurses of Ontario’s (CNO) mandatory PLP requirements. It provides essential protection against claims of professional negligence, malpractice or errors in care. It also covers other critical areas, including criminal investigations and prosecutions, statutory offences and public inquiries, and non-party proceedings. RNAO PLP also extends to nursing practice across the country, providing protection whether you practise in Ontario or another Canadian jurisdiction.

Although RNAO’s PLP offers comprehensive protection that exceeds the minimum required by CNO, nurses can face other legal challenges that PLP doesn’t cover. That’s where LAP becomes vital.

What does LAP cover?

LAP is an optional, additional layer of protection that complements PLP. It is designed to protect you in specific legal matters beyond those covered by PLP, offering important support for issues related to your employment, CNO matters and other professional challenges.

Here’s what LAP covers:

Employment disputes: Whether it’s a lay-off, wrongful dismissal, human rights issue or workplace investigation, LAP provides legal assistance to help you navigate employment challenges.
CNO matters: Facing a CNO complaint or investigation into your nursing practice can be stressful – and can threaten your career. LAP covers legal representation for these proceedings, ensuring you have expert guidance and advocacy throughout the process.
Lawyer referral and financial support: LAP provides referrals to lawyers and covers costs for legal representation in several circumstances. This helps ease the burden of hiring a lawyer.

Why you need both PLP and LAP

PLP and LAP work together to provide peace of mind, covering a wide range of legal challenges throughout your professional life. By having both PLP and LAP coverage, you can practise confidently, knowing you’re protected and supported in the event of any covered legal issue.

Take action now for full coverage

If you’ve already renewed your RNAO membership, you have PLP. It is included automatically with your membership. LAP is a discretionary benefit ($60) and we strongly recommend you enroll in LAP. Don’t wait until you’re faced with a legal issue – whether it’s an unexpected employment dispute or a CNO complaint – to realize the value of full protection.

To enroll in LAP, log into MyRNAO.ca or contact the membership and services team at 1-800-268-7199 x1. Don’t miss out on this important coverage. Make sure you’re fully protected as you continue your nursing career.

For more information, visit RNAO’s PLP and RNAO’s LAP.