Scope of Practice Changes for Physio Announced Today

We are pleased and excited that the Bill tabled today by Minister Caplan and the McGuinty government, when passed, will recognize the competencies and scope that physiotherapists bring to the health system. The Bill will go to second reading before the legislature rises for the summer and will be in committee review over the summer. If all goes well, we would anticipate third reading and passing of the legislation this fall.

These changes will improve access to healthcare for Ontarians, especially those without a family physician. It will help improve the team work and collaboration in health care by making it clear what can be done by physiotherapists.

The changes for physiotherapists include the recognition of the ability to communicate a diagnosis, to treat below the skin for wounds, to assess and treat incontinence and other pelvic disorders, to administer oxygen, order x-rays and other tests.

For some acts like ordering an x-ray, the College of Physiotherapists of Ontario will set standards related to competence and education prior to a physiotherapist performing the specific controlled act.

The initial press release from OPA has been circulated to various media outlets across Ontario and can be accessed here. We are already seeing some interest from local community television and newspapers. Any members contacted by the media to comment on the proposed legislation are asked to contact the OPA office.

We will be reviewing the language of the Bill and developing key messages that members can take to MPPs and other decision makers over the coming months – these will be disseminated via future iBlasts and will be posted on the OPA website.