Date: 08-Nov-2010

College Council Releases Revised Information On Physiotherapists' Restricted Titles in Wake of Increasing Reports of Misuse

More frequent reports to the College on the misuse and misrepresentation of the title “physiotherapist” or “physical therapist” and any similar abbreviation (PT) have caused the College to revise and reissue its official documents.

Reports to the College on this matter have steadily increased over the past five years, from one matter in 2006 to over 20 in 2010.

In Ontario, the Regulated Health Professions Act (RHPA), and in particular the Physiotherapy Act, authorizes the use of the titles physiotherapist or physical therapist only to those individuals registered with the College of Physiotherapists of Ontario.  Further, individuals who are not registered and mislead the public by using the title, a registration number or employing practice terms that create confusion may be subject to action under the law.

Protecting titles and preventing unauthorized holding out as a registered physiotherapist is important as it ensures the member of the public that he/she is receiving care from a qualified provider.  As an example, when a registration number is used as a billing number by individuals who are not physiotherapists, members of the public are disadvantaged.  Not only may insurance claims be denied, requiring expenses to be absorbed directly by the consumer, but consumers could lose trust in the integrity of health providers more generally. (Are we who we say we are?)

The College makes inquiries into all matters related to use of title that are brought to its attention. Where evidence exists that misuse or misrepresentation has occurred, action will result.

The College’s current public education campaign, “My Title – Your Protection.” reinforces the importance of registration and professional titles to public protection.

Standard for Professional Practice - The Use of Restricted Titles, Credentials and Specialty Designations

Information Bulletin - Non Physiotherapists Use of Restricted Titles and Holding Out




For more information, please contact:

Karin Micheelsen, Director of Communications
Tel: 416-591-3828 or 1 800-583-5885, Ext. 234
Email: kmicheelsen@collegept.org
www.collegept.org

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