Patient Relations Program
The Patient Relations Program of the College of Physiotherapists of Ontario aims to enhance and promote the relationship between physiotherapists and patients by providing education and resources to assist both groups.It is the Patient Relations Committee that also ensures that resources, advice, training and supports are available to prevent the sexual abuse of patients.
The information below may help you as a patient understand what happens when you are assessed and treated by a physiotherapist, what are reasonable expectations when seeing a physiotherapist and what to do if you feel you have not received the care you expected or have been sexually abused.
What do Physiotherapists Do?
Physiotherapists assess, treat and prevent physical problems, injuries and pain, to restore movement, function and health status. When you see a physiotherapist you can expect that he/she will do the following:- Carry out an assessment of your condition
- Review and discuss the assessment findings with you
- Develop a plan for your treatment that will meet your needs and goals
- Obtain your consent for the treatment
- Regularly measure your progress and make adjustments to the treatment as needed
- Provide advice and education regarding your condition
- Keep a record of the care provided
Physiotherapy assessment and treatment is often hands-on and usually involves touching. Some of the techniques that a physiotherapist might use include: manual therapy (treatment using the physiotherapist’s hands), exercise instruction, education and/or electro-physical modalities (e.g. heat, ice, ultrasound, laser, acupuncture etc).
In order to assess and treat you, the physiotherapist will likely want to look at how your body moves. You may be asked to remove some of your clothing to allow the physiotherapist to see your muscles, joints, posture, movement etc. The physiotherapist will allow you privacy to change your clothes and provide you with a way to cover yourself if necessary. The physiotherapist may also need to feel how your muscles and body parts move. The use of touch is central to the practice of physiotherapy.
Information on Physiotherapists’ Practice
Code of EthicsEssential Competency Profile
Standard for Professional Practice: Establishing and Maintaining Therapeutic Relationships
Standard for Professional Practice: Managing Challenging Interpersonal Situations When Providing Patient Care
Resources for Patients
Understanding Sexual AbuseThe College's Role When a Patient Has Been Sexually Abused
Funding for Therapy & Counselling
Understanding the Complaints Process
Request a Speaker
College speakers visit many groups to discuss ethical and professional issues. To request a speaker, please click here.For more information about the College’s Patient Relations Program, please contact us at info@collegept.org or tel. 416-591-3828 or toll-free 1-800-583-5885
