College or Association - Understanding the Difference

If you’re a denturist, or you’re receiving care from one, you may wonder what the difference is between a regulatory college and a professional association.

Although they both work with the same profession, they have very different roles.

What is a regulator?

The College of Alberta Denturists (College) is the profession’s regulator under Alberta’s Health Professions Act (HPA).

The College does this by:

• setting registration requirements,
• establishing standards of practice and a code of ethics,
• establishing and monitoring continuing competence requirements,
• investigating complaints about regulated members,
• taking action when unprofessional conduct is found, and
• ensuring only qualified individuals are registered to practice.

The College does not promote or advocate for the profession. Instead, its role is to regulate the profession in the public interest under the HPA.

What is a professional association?

A professional association exists to support and advance the profession and its members.

An association may:

• advocate for the profession,
• represent members’ interests,
• provide networking opportunities,
• offer continuing education and professional development,
• negotiate member benefits or discounts,
• promote the value of the profession to the public, and
• provide business and practice resources.

Associations do not manage complaints under the HPA or regulate who may practice.

What’s the Difference?

Why does this distinction matter?

Although both organizations contribute to a strong profession, they do so in different ways. The College regulates denturists in the public interest, while the Association supports and advances the profession and its members.

Together, these organizations contribute to a profession that is both accountable to the public and supported in its ongoing growth.