April 28, 2026
Nurses and Nurse Practitioners of BC (NNPBC) has received a mandate to pursue a comprehensive compensation framework with the Government of British Columbia on behalf of the nurse practitioners. If achieved, this would be the first of its kind in Canada, recognizing the growing, unique and essential role nurse practitioners play in BC’s health system.
A province-wide vote was held from April 13 to 24, 2026, and was open to all nurse practitioners registered to practice in BC. An overwhelming majority of those who participated voted in favour of moving this work forward:
- Yes: 91.9%
- No: 8.1%
- Total ballots cast: 856 of 1,019 registered voters
- Voter turnout: 84%
A significant milestone for the profession
This marks an important moment for nurse practitioners in British Columbia. It signals strong desire among nurse practitioners in having a more formal, NP-led role in shaping decisions related to compensation, supports and the future of NP practice in British Columbia.
It also has broader relevance for the health system. As BC works to improve access to care and strengthen services across communities, nurse practitioners are playing an increasingly important role across all settings, from primary to specialized care. A more coordinated and sustainable framework for NP compensation and supports can help improve recruitment and retention, create greater workforce stability and better enable NPs to practice where patients need care most.
Guided by NPs every step of the way
This initiative has been shaped through an extensive engagement process over more than a year.
Since early 2025, NNPBC has undertaken extensive province-wide consultation to help shape this work. That engagement has included provincial town halls, presentations with NP departments and leadership across health authorities, and meetings with BC’s Ministry of Health and health system leaders.
It has also included conference and student engagement sessions, a dedicated campaign website and resources, a province-wide survey, and ongoing outreach through newsletters, webinars, email campaigns and peer engagement networks.
This work was designed to ensure nurse practitioners had diverse opportunities to learn about the concept, ask questions and help shape the path forward.
What happens next
Today’s result does not create a comprehensive compensation framework, sometimes called a Main Agreement, immediately. It gives NNPBC the mandate to begin the next phase of work required to pursue one.
In the short term, NNPBC will:
- Ensure nurse practitioners across BC understand the vote result and what it means
- Inform government, partners and interest holders about the outcome and path ahead
- Explore fair and practical ways to fund this work properly, including a voluntary contribution model for NPs
- Begin organizing the team, structures and broader NP community representation needed to move this effort forward
Ongoing commitment to NPs
NNPBC extends sincere thanks to every nurse practitioner who took the time to learn about this important question and participated in the vote.
While a strong majority voted in favour, nurse practitioners held differing views throughout this process. Going forward, NNPBC remains committed to representing the entire NP profession inclusively.
For more information, please visit www.npagreement.ca or email npagreement@nnpbc.com.