Ensuring Public Safety
When you see a physiotherapist, you can expect to receive quality care from a qualified health professional who is registered with the College of Physiotherapists of Ontario.
Every physiotherapist in the province must meet the College of Physiotherapists of Ontario's standards for entry into the profession and standards for professional conduct and practice. The College sets rules and develops programs to ensure that members of the physiotherapy profession practise in your best interests.
Many health professionals provide services similar to those offered by physiotherapists, but only individuals who are registered with the College of Physiotherapists of Ontario may use the title "physiotherapist" or "physical therapist". Physiotherapists are accountable to the College for the quality of care they provide their patients and their professional conduct.
Registered physiotherapists have the expertise to provide safe, effective and professional care.
How does Regulated Health Care protect me?
The College is one of Ontario's 21 health regulatory colleges. These colleges were established to protect the right of Ontarians to safe, effective and ethical health care. All 21 belong to the Federation of Health Regulatory Colleges in Ontario (FHRCO).
Legislation and regulations are in place to protect the public interest. Here are some examples:
Consent: Consent is required for all treatment provided by health practitioners, except when treatment is provided in an emergency situation.
Privacy and Your Health Records: Professional misconduct regulations forbid physiotherapists from giving out your information to anyone but you or someone authorized to represent you. You must consent to the release of your information, unless it is required or allowed by law.
Mandatory Reporting: Physiotherapists are obligated to make mandatory reports relating to sexual abuse of patients, employment terminations due to professional misconduct, incompetence or incapacity, and child abuse.
