Hospital & Rehab Archives - Page 3 of 9 - Ontario Physiotherapy Association

Member Spotlight: Venkadesan Rajendran on Working to Full Scope in Stroke Care

Venkadesan Rajendran, Physiotherapist and OPA Member Spotlight seen with a large Recovery After Stroke graphic behind him.

“My journey in the field of physiotherapy began in 1999, when I recognized how many patients were living with pain and disability without timely access to proper care,” says Venkadesan (Ven) Rajendran. “This observation motivated me to pursue a 4½-year Bachelor of Physiotherapy program at The Tamil Nadu Dr. MGR Medical University, which I completed in 2003.”

After graduating, Ven began his career working in rehabilitation settings treating patients with complex medical conditions. It didn’t take long before he identified a significant gap in care: “Within two years, I noticed that individuals with neurological conditions, especially those who had experienced a stroke, faced significant challenges in accessing specialized rehabilitation and assessments. That led me to pursue a master’s degree in advanced physiotherapy in neurology (MPT).”

Ven’s training in the MPT program deepened his expertise in neurological rehabilitation and introduced him to specialized clinical practices. “As part of the program, I gained experience conducting electromyography (EMG) and nerve conduction velocity (NCV) studies and worked closely with neurologists to triage patients with stroke and spinal injuries, bridging the gap between acute care, outpatient clinics, and community rehabilitation,” Ven explains.

Ven eventually brought this expertise to Canada. He joined Health Sciences North (HSN) in Sudbury and began conversations about the possibility of expanding physiotherapy’s role in stroke care, which the leadership team supported. “This role emerged from the unique convergence of personal vision and institutional strategy,” Ven says. Because of Ven’s efforts, Health Sciences North was the first academic hospital in Canada to implement an Advanced Practice Physiotherapist (APP) role specifically for stroke, which has allowed him to extend the boundaries of physiotherapy practice while directly addressing system-level challenges to improve patient outcomes.

Continuing Professional Development

“My professional advancement happened gradually and strategically within the same healthcare system” says Ven. He notes that continuity within Health Sciences North allowed him to build institutional knowledge, trust, and strong interprofessional relationships. Building on these foundations, Ven has continued to pursue ongoing professional development to adapt to the ever-changing Canadian healthcare landscape.

“Even after completing my PhD in Rehabilitation, I felt it was important to stay current” he explains. “I completed a one-year graduate certificate in stroke rehabilitation from the University of Alberta to better understand stroke rehab practices in Canada.”

Evolution of the Role

Over time, the APP role has grown beyond its original scope. “It started with a focus on direct clinical assessment and research, but now it includes leadership responsibilities and managing system-level triage pathways for stroke patients.”

He has also led initiatives that challenge traditional care models. One of these is the ‘MObile TIA and Stroke with AdaptiVE Workflow (MOTIVE)’ project, which utilizes an expert stroke team that tends to patients throughout every area of the hospital setting, not just in the stroke unit.

One of the most innovative aspects of our MOTIVE project involves rehabilitation triage of mild stroke patients in collaboration with stroke neurologists and other interdisciplinary members, ” Ven said. “We were able to triage patients with rehabilitation needs within hours or on the same day, which significantly reduced delays and facilitated faster discharge of patients with TIA/minor stroke.“

Advocacy and System-Level Approaches

To further support this shift, Ven has begun advocating for legislative and regulatory changes.

“I’ve had preliminary discussions with the leadership team at HSN about implementing Bill 179 for stroke care” he explains. “If adopted, physiotherapists could use diagnostic tools like X-rays, CT scans, and MRIs to identify red flags and triage patients for rehabilitation and treat them more effectively. This wouldn’t replace physicians; it would enhance system efficiency and stroke care.”

In addition to his clinical expertise, Ven brings a systems-thinking approach to his role. “I completed Lean Six Sigma Green Belt certification and gained knowledge in Implementation Science. These tools have helped me move beyond individual treatment plans and look at redesigning entire clinical workflows.”

The APP role has proven especially impactful for patients with acute stroke and TIA, where rapid decision-making can dramatically influence outcomes. “This patient group really benefits from quick triage and early discharge planning” says Ven. “By addressing initial system inefficiencies, we can reduce length of hospital stays and direct patients to the right rehab pathway once they’re medically stable.” Ven points to the MOTIVE Project as a clear example of success: “We were able to triage patients within hours or on the same day. Working collaboratively with stroke neurologists, physicians, Occupational Therapists, and Speech Language Pathologists allowed us to significantly reduce delays and support faster discharges.”

Health System Impacts

Ven has seen the significant impacts of his role within the hospital system:

“My role helps reduce hallway medicine by preventing unnecessary admissions and ensuring timely discharges. That improves patient flow, optimizes bed use, and reduces re-admissions.”

Ven believes strongly that the value of APP roles needs to be communicated in system-level terms. “There’s already strong evidence that APPs in musculoskeletal care are a cost-effective way to assess and manage patients. The same applies to stroke. Investing in APPs isn’t just about staffing, it’s an economic strategy. These roles help improve patient flow, reduce hospital admissions, and deliver advanced care at a lower cost compared to relying solely on physicians for triage.”

He emphasizes that APPs are intended to work alongside and not in place of physicians.

“It’s important for other health professionals to know that APP roles are designed to complement, not compete” Ven explains. “In stroke care, our involvement enables timely assessments and planning, so that neurologists and physicians can focus on high-acuity medical needs.”

When asked how the profession can better advocate for APP roles, Ven stresses the importance of aligning with system priorities. “Advocacy needs to go beyond individual clinical outcomes. We need to show the impact on things like ALC days, and length of hospital stays. For example, our MOTIVE project focused on reducing length of stay and readmission risk for stroke patients. If we can connect physiotherapy to government goals like improved flow and reduced wait times, we’ll have a much stronger case.”

For others looking to replicate this model, Ven offers some clear advice: “Effective advocacy for an APP role has to be tied to a specific system issue, not just professional ambition. Focus on solving inefficiencies, like long waits for specialist consults. Use quality improvement methods to measure outcomes and back up your work with data. To ensure sustainability, the role should include clinical practice, leadership, research, and education.”

Ven’s work offers a compelling example of how physiotherapists, when supported to work at full scope, can play a transformative role in patient care and health system design.

Members of the leadership team at Health Sciences North share their perspectives on the importance of the APP role:

“Allowing physiotherapists to order diagnostic tests within their professional scope can enhance patient care by minimizing delays associated with waiting for physician assessments and orders. Advanced Practice roles in internal medicine and stroke care further facilitate collaboration with stroke neurologists and physicians, thereby promoting timely and efficient triage for rehabilitation” – Lisa Zeman, Clinical Manager of Internal Medicine and Acute Stroke, Health Sciences North.

“Advanced Practice Physiotherapist (APP) play a vital role in stroke care, partnering with stroke neurologists to provide expert functional assessments and guide timely, and evidence-based rehabilitation decisions.” – Dr. Ravinder-Jeet Singh, Stroke Neurologist, Health Sciences North; Medical Director, NEO Stroke Network.

“Integrating Advanced Practice Physiotherapy (APP) into our stroke team has greatly enhanced both patient care and system performance. At Health Sciences North, we’ve seen measurable improvements in research, clinical outcomes, access to care, and interdisciplinary collaboration. Our APP has demonstrated exceptional clinical leadership and has been instrumental in strengthening the overall effectiveness of our stroke program” – Chantal Liddard, Administrative Director Medicine Program, Health Sciences North.

Are You our Next Member Spotlight?

Do you want to be featured? Are you in an innovative role? Spoken about physiotherapy in a podcast or the news? Published an article? Or represented the physiotherapy profession through advocacy?

We want to celebrate you as a physiotherapist, PT or PTA student or PTA!

Submit your story

Physio North 2025 – Caring for Oneself – Big Success!

Rhonda Matthews, Northern Ontario District President of OPA, with an attendee from Physio North 2025. — Rhonda Matthews (L) with conference attendee

“I feel encouraged about our profession and am more motivated to get back at it!” – feedback from one Physio North conference attendee

Northern Ontario District members welcomed the physiotherapy community to their district’s bi-annual conference in Timmins.

The event took place over two days, from October 3-4, and included many amazing sessions, a pre-conference course, and a chance to network with the Northern and Northwestern Ontario physiotherapy community, among others.

What a few attendees had to say about the event:

“It was truly a valuable experience for both skill development and networking opportunities. It was great connecting with so many engaged professionals.”

“Amazing coming together of the North.”

When asked what they liked most about the event, attendees shared:

“Networking with colleagues, meeting/interacting with the CEOs of the CPO and OPA”

“Networking with peers and sharing what is important to Northeastern Ontario Physiotherapists with OPA and the College”

Craig Roxborough, Registrar & CEO and Mary-Catherine Fraser Saxena, Manager, Practice Advice (CPO) both echoed there were lots of meaningful conversations, and they appreciated the opportunity to connect with PTs in the North to hear their perspectives.

Courtney Bean, OPA’s President, said he had such a great time and it really filled his bucket. He said he has some good understanding of the challenges of rural care but now realizes the amazing passion of people providing care in rural locations. He also learned a lot about care in the North…a lot more than he ever knew.

Sarah Hutchison, OPA’s CEO, gained a deeper appreciation of the challenges that rural and remote physiotherapists face and how the OPA might advocate further. She also observed that the sense of community was incredible and contagious!

Northern Ontario District of OPA's Physio North Speakers, Jack Miller, Courtney Bean, OPA's President, and Sarah Hutchison, OPA CEO — From L to R: Jack Miller, PT & Pre-conference Course Instructor, Courtney Bean, PT and OPA President & Sarah Hutchison, OPA CEO

Get Involved Locally

Physio North 2025 is one example of the amazing work done by district volunteers. Thank you to Rhonda Matthews, Northern Ontario District President, and Jody Lemieux, Secretary, for making this event happen!

Regional representation at OPA through our 16 districts is invaluable. While districts may share similarities, understanding the unique populations and advocacy needs in each district contributes to OPA’s success. We encourage all members to get involved in their districts.

OPA Districts

Are you in Durham, Niagara or Northwestern Ontario Districts?

OPA is currently looking for member volunteers in these districts. Contact Prerna at ptawde@opa.on.ca if you are interested in volunteering.

Thank you to our Exhibitor, Motion

Read Our Submission & Respond to Scope of Practice Consultation

Following our September update about the Government of Ontario’s public consultation on scope of practice changes, OPA has completed our comprehensive response to the Ministry of Health.

The consultation period closes on November 3, 2025, and we strongly encourage all physiotherapists to participate and make their voices heard. See below for how.

OPA’s Submission: Ready for Your Use

OPA has submitted a detailed response addressing all consultation questions, backed by evidence, research, and the results of our 2024 survey of Ontario physiotherapists. Members are welcome to reference, adapt, or use content from our submission in their own responses to the government consultation.

Our submission emphasizes how implementing the authority for physiotherapists to order diagnostic imaging (X-rays, CT scans, MRIs, and diagnostic ultrasounds) will:

Improve Access to Care

Reduce Healthcare System Burden

Work Within Established Quality & Safety Frameworks

Read our submission

What the Evidence Shows

Our submission includes compelling data from the 2024 OPA survey of Ontario physiotherapists who responded that:

74% experience difficulties obtaining diagnostic imaging or lab results needed for patient care

84% report that these challenges lead to delayed treatment for patients

82% have completed tests but never received the reports

62% have seen inaccurate diagnoses result from these barriers

Research from jurisdictions where physiotherapists already have this authority demonstrates:

No significant increase in overall imaging utilization

High concordance between physiotherapist and specialist physician ordering patterns

27-49% reduction in healthcare costs (systematic review)

Most Alberta physiotherapists order an average of only 22 imaging tests per year

Outstanding Authority: Laboratory Tests

This consultation focuses on diagnostic imaging. OPA will continue to advocate for the authority to order laboratory tests- the final piece of scope expansion approved under Bill 179 in 2009 that has not yet been implemented.

Three Ways to Participate Before November 3

Your voice matters. Here’s how you can support this critical scope expansion:

Use OPA’s submission: Reference or adapt content from our comprehensive response.

Submit directly to the government consultation: Visit the Ontario Regulatory Registry to provide your feedback.

Contribute to ongoing advocacy: Participate in OPA’s letter writing campaign to decision-makers.

Read our submission

Why This Matters Now

Since 2009, physiotherapists have been waiting for the regulations needed to implement scope of practice changes that are already approved in legislation. Four other provinces- Alberta, Quebec, Nova Scotia, and PEI- have successfully implemented this authority for physiotherapists.

With Ontario facing:

Challenges for patients across Ontario to access care

2.5 million people without a family physician (projected to reach 4.4 million by 2026)

Increasing wait times for specialist consultations

Emergency departments overwhelmed with non-urgent visits

Implementation of these scope changes will allow physiotherapists to better serve patients, reduce system pressures, and deliver on the government’s commitment to provide “the right care in the right place.”

Timeline Reminder

Consultation closes: November 3, 2025

What happens next: Following the consultation, the Minister of Health will need to make regulation amendments (subject to Cabinet approval).

OPA remains optimistic that the government will move quickly with the needed regulation changes following this consultation period.

OPA Member Meets with Premier Doug Ford & Deputy Premier and Minister of Health Sylvia Jones

The recent announcement by the Government of Ontario about pending scope of practice implementation for physiotherapists in Ontario is an important and welcome step. OPA remains optimistic that following the completion of the Government consultation on November 3, 2025, the Government will move quickly with the needed regulation changes to expand the scope of practice for physiotherapists.

OPA also continues to advocate for the remaining needed changes so that physiotherapists can order laboratory tests, which the announcement did not reference.

Member Meets with Premier Doug Ford & Minister of Health Sylvia Jones

Ontario Premier Doug Ford holds a letter from the Ontario Physiotherapy Association given to him by Anthony Grande, PT and OPA member

Honourable Sylvia Jones, Deputy Premier and Minister of Health with an OPA letter being handed to her by Anthony Grande, PT and OPA member

Anthony Grande, PT and OPA member, met with Premier Doug Ford on September 25 and Deputy Premier and Minister of Health, Sylvia Jones on October 7, 2025.

OPA provided Anthony with a letter of acknowledgement and appreciation for the Premier and Minister of Health on behalf of 12,000 physiotherapists in Ontario for their leadership in announcing plans to implement the needed changes. Anthony thanked both the Premier and Deputy Premier in person for the recent Government of Ontario announcement regarding plans to implement the needed changes for physiotherapists to be able to order diagnostic imaging.

Read letter to Premier Ford

Read letter to Minister Jones

Every Member Makes a Difference

We thank all members who recently submitted feedback to OPA regarding the Government consultation. OPA is also encouraged by all members, like Anthony, who dedicate time and energy to advocating for the the physiotherapy profession, and the implementation of our full scope of practice.

Continued Advocacy is Needed

The Government of Ontario consultation on the proposed changes to scope of practice closes on November 3, 2025. OPA will share our submission with members prior to the government’s consultation closing.

Here is how you can have input:

Respond directly to the government’s consultation.

Continue with your letter writing advocacy in support of scope expansion for physiotherapists.

Our voices are stronger together!

Questions? Contact OPA at physiomail@opa.on.ca

Member Spotlight – Expanding Horizons: A Physiotherapist’s Role in Ontario’s Emergency Departments

Highlighting the Full Scope of Physiotherapy Practice with Andrew Tri, Emergency Department Physiotherapist

Andrew Tri, smiling Physiotherapist at an emergency department at Toronto General Hospital

In the ever-evolving landscape of Ontario’s healthcare system, physiotherapists are stepping into new roles and settings with significant impact. Andrew Tri, a physiotherapist working in the emergency department at Toronto General Hospital, shares his journey, insights, and hopes for the future of the profession.

A Dynamic Career Path

From his early days working in private neurological rehabilitation and high-performance sport clinics, to supporting elite athletes at the Toronto Lakeshore Skating School and national teams such as Swimming Canada, Skate Canada, and Rowing Canada, Andrew Tri’s career has always been dynamic. Diverse education and a shifting healthcare landscape allowed him to move between roles in inpatient surgical units, sports organizations, and even a health tech company, which eventually led him to become a trailblazer in the emergency department.

“My path has always included both public and private settings,” Andrew explains. “That hybrid approach kept my skills sharp and my perspective broad.”

After earning his FCAMPT (Fellow of the Canadian Academy of Manipulative Physiotherapy) designation in 2018, Andrew pursued further education through the Master of Clinical Science in Advanced Health Care Practice (Sport and Exercise Medicine) at Western University (AHCP-SEM). This interdisciplinary program was a steppingstone to a new opportunity to work at Trillium Health Partners – Credit Valley Hospital, which eventually led Andrew to University Health Network, where he is helping define and expand the role of physiotherapists in the emergency department.

Emergency Care

Andrew credits his wealth of postgraduate training and wide-ranging clinical experience for preparing him for the unpredictable nature of the emergency department. “The emergency department is one of the most unpredictable areas of the hospital” Andrew explains. “The AHCP – SEM program at Western is designed so that you’re in a mixed cohort of PTs and Physicians…I had the privilege of learning from some brilliant physicians, some of whom practice in the emergency department.”

In the emergency department at Trillium Health Partners – Credit Valley Hospital, Andrew worked under medical directives that allowed qualified physiotherapists to order imaging, administer analgesia, and manually reduce dislocated joints:

“If a shoulder dislocation comes into the emergency department, we are the first ones to assess, order imaging, and initiate the reduction process.”

This proactive, team-based approach helps streamline emergency operations and improves patient outcomes. Andrew has noticed that this model “allows individuals to receive appropriate care in a time-effective model that better utilizes resources and distributes work amongst team members.”

Physiotherapists as System Changers

Andrew is part of a small but growing group of physiotherapists working to their full scope of practice in collaborative teams. “Having the experience of working in a role that allows for basic medical imaging and administering analgesia allows me to experience first-hand what a full scope of practice in Ontario could look like,” Andrew says.

Andrew believes that high-quality roles where physiotherapists practice to full scope are powerful advocacy tools: “I believe doing the role, and doing it well, helps push the boundaries as we continue to serve as a strong representation of what PTs can do, or look to do once trained to do so.”

Over time, Andrew has seen growing awareness of the value that physiotherapists bring to the emergency department: “There is a lot more understanding of what PTs can do and the value that can be provided in the emergency department.” From assessment and early management to discharge planning and education, physiotherapists play an integral role in improving patient care.

Serving Underserved Populations

Musculoskeletal conditions, which are frequently underserved in traditional emergency department models, are an area where PTs shine.

“These musculoskeletal populations are in our wheelhouse as PTs,” says Andrew. “Our impact is in providing early, effective education and starting someone’s journey on a higher trajectory…This reduces the likelihood of those fear avoidant behaviours and maladaptive patterns.”

He also highlights the PT’s role in managing chronic conditions and geriatric syndromes, both of which are areas where timely intervention can prevent unnecessary hospitalizations and future emergency department visits.

In a system battling hallway medicine and capacity issues, Andrew believes physiotherapists are key allies. “We’re constantly assessing and developing management and discharge plans to ensure those who are in need of active emergency medicine, have the space to receive the appropriate care…”.

Advocacy, Collaboration, and Moving Forward

Andrew believes that adding more physiotherapist roles in emergency departments is not only possible but essential: “We are trained to provide value beyond mobility and discharge planning, [and] we are well-positioned to contribute more to assessment and management”.

For fellow health professionals, he emphasizes the need for collaboration:

“PTs can provide a lot of value to a healthcare system that is currently overloaded and understaffed. The deterioration that typically happens in the care areas of musculoskeletal, cardiorespiratory, neurological, and complex care systems often end up presenting to the emergency department in the form of falls, physical fragility, loss of function and independence, and generally failure to thrive.”

As the healthcare system evolves, Andrew outlines a roadmap for progress: use data to demonstrate impact, build public and political awareness, advocate for new physiotherapist roles, and form task forces to address broader healthcare trends.

He also urges physiotherapists to challenge the status quo and continue to grow: “We are in a profession of continued, life-long learning [and] times have changed. The stresses and demands on the health care system have changed. We must continue to advocate for the appropriate change in our scope of practice to better serve and support these new demands.”

A Vision for Physiotherapists in Emergency Care

Andrew’s story is a case study of the untapped potential of physiotherapists within Ontario’s healthcare system. His work exemplifies how the profession, when supported to work to full scope, can transform emergency care and support system-wide goals.

As Ontario’s healthcare landscape continues to shift, stories like Andrew’s are a powerful reminder of what is possible when physiotherapists are empowered to lead, innovate, and care at the highest level.

Are You our Next Member Spotlight?

Do you want to be featured and in an innovative role? Spoken about physiotherapy in a podcast or the news? Published an article? Or represented the physiotherapy profession through advocacy?

We want to celebrate you as a physiotherapist, PT or PTA student or PTA!

Submit your story

Courtney Bean, OPA President’s Message -National Day for Truth and Reconciliation

Today we recognize the National Day for Truth and Reconciliation. On September 30 we honour and remember the Indigenous children who never returned home, survivors of residential schools, and their families and communities.

Watch Courtney Bean, OPA’s President, speak about this day, its history, and significance to all of us. Check out resources below mentioned in the video.

Access Resources

More Resources

Interactive

Track progress on the Truth and Reconciliation Commission’s 94 Calls to Action (CBC)

Learn about whose land you live on at Native-land.ca

Listen

Stolen: Surviving St. Michaelʼs

Kuper Island

Telling Our Twisted Histories

Watch

nîpawistamâsowin: We Will Stand Up

CBC’s National Day for Truth and Reconciliation Collection (movies, specials and documentaries)

Read

Toronto Public Library’s Reading for Reconciliation list (link includes a list of in-person events at the library including film screenings, bead pin making and more)

Calgary Public Library’s Indigenous Reading List: Truth and Reconciliation

Experience

Destination Indigenous A hub for Indigenous tourism – look for an event near you

Scope of Practice Update

Thank you to everyone who has been engaged with the recent announcement about pending scope of practice implementation for physiotherapists in Ontario. We are equally excited about these next steps and want to assure our community that we will share additional information as soon as it becomes available to us.

Following the Announcement, the Government of Ontario opened a public consultation on the scope of practice for a number of regulated health professions and specifically included the authority for physiotherapists to order diagnostic imaging.

What’s Been Completed

Scope of practice expansion began under the Physiotherapy Act, 1991 in 2009. Specifically, members will recall that the Physiotherapy Act was amended to:

Expand the legislative description of the scope of practice of physiotherapy in section 3 of the Act;

Authorize physiotherapists to “communicate a diagnosis”;

Perform several procedures relating to wound care;

These changes have been in place for some time. Combined with the earlier extension of authority to “administer a substance by inhalation” that was extended prior, the scope changes arguably represent the most extensive granted to any profession that was regulated by the Health Professions Regulations Act when it came into force and effect in 1993. With the pending addition of diagnostic imaging, the only outstanding authority is the ability to order of lab tests.

In the fall of 2024, OPA collaborated with the College of Physiotherapists of Ontario to update past submissions to the Ontario Government on scope of practice implementation. This included the results of a 2024 updated survey of Ontario physiotherapists to understand the current landscape. A comprehensive submission has already been made to the Ministry in advance of this announcement. OPA has been committed to advocacy in this area dating back to 2009. View the timeline of OPA activities related to scope changes.

What Needs to Happen for Scope of Practice Changes to Advance

It is important to know that few of the health professions that are seeking scope expansion are at the same point in terms of the necessary enabling legislation. In this regard, the physiotherapy profession is among the furthest advanced. In our case, the necessary statutory amendments have already been made and have been proclaimed.

Once this current consultation period has ended, the following amendments to regulations need to occur. The changes to regulations are under the authority of the Minister of Health, subject to approval by Cabinet. Implementation of the physiotherapy scope of practice changes require:

A regulation under section 6(2) of the Healing Arts Radiation Protection Act to add prescribing of X-rays by physiotherapists.

Amendment to the Exemptions section of O. Reg 107/96 “Controlled Acts” under the Regulated Health Professions Act, 1991 is required to give physiotherapists the authorization to order the following “ prescribed forms of energy”:
o MRIs, under Sections 3.1 and 7.4,
o Diagnostic Ultrasound, under Section 7.1(2), by including “a member of the College” as a “member with ordering authority.”

Physiotherapists are also seeking the ability to order laboratory tests, but the announcement did not reference this request. The following regulation changes would be required:

Amendment to O. Regs. 45 /22 Sections 17 & 18, under the Laboratory and Specimen Collection Act to permit physiotherapists to order laboratory tests (9.1(a)) as appropriate.

Amendment to O. Reg. 207/94 General, Section 12 under the Medical Laboratory Technology Act, 1991 to permit taking blood samples when ordered by a physiotherapist.

What the Government Announcement Means

This announcement is consistent with the government’s commitment to advance scope of practice expansion. The public consultation is a forum for the government to share its intent and to receive input on the benefits and risks of implementing scope of practice changes for multiple regulated health professionals including physiotherapists. We remain optimistic that following the completion of the consultation on November 3, 2025 the government will move quickly with the needed regulation changes to expand the scope of practice for physiotherapists.

What Information We Do Not Have Yet

Specific timelines for the drafting and approval of the necessary enabling regulation changes. We are hopeful that the regulations pertaining to physiotherapy could be in place as early as mid-year 2026.

Timeline from approval of regulation changes to clinical implementation including confirmation of the College of Physiotherapists processes for rostering that will be adapted to support this new authority. We understand that the College is preparing for implementation so that once the government has made the final regulatory changes, they will be ready to move forward. We will continue to work with CPO on implementation related considerations.

Government of Ontario Consultation

Thanks to all who provided thoughts to inform OPA’s feedback. This feedback closed October 8, 2025.

The Government of Ontario has released a consultation on the proposed changes to scope of practice closing on November 3, 2025.

Continue with your letter writing advocacy in support of scope expansion for physiotherapists.

Respond directly to the government’s consultation.

We are actively collecting feedback from the physiotherapy community to include in our response to this consultation, which closes on November 3, 2025.

In addition to a summary of the existing PT competencies and scope of practice already passed in legislation, OPA will ensure the following points are clearly articulated with supporting evidence.

Continued access to diagnostic imaging must to be publicly-funded.

Implementing the authority for physiotherapists to order diagnostic imaging will:

Increase access to the right health care at the right time for many people in Ontario

Improve efficiencies and reduce costs in the healthcare system by eliminating redundancies and red tape

Require additional education and ongoing learning by PTs to ensure best practices

Be implemented safely and effectively by the College of Physiotherapist of Ontario’s robust and proven rostering process and quality assurance

OPA will share our submission with members prior to the government’s consultation closing.

We strongly encourage all PTs to provide their support through any of the two remaining pathways with comments directly to the Government’s consultation or continue with our letter writing campaign. Our voices are stronger together!

Questions? Contact OPA at physiomail@opa.on.ca

Courtney Bean, OPA’s President Message, September 2025

OPA President, Courtney Bean, shares a message upon the recent Government of Ontario announcement about pending scope of practice implementation for physiotherapists in Ontario. Courtney also welcomes new students to the physiotherapy community.

The PT Exchange: In Conversation with the College and OPA

People at an event with one woman's hand up to ask a question

Join representatives from the College of Physiotherapists of Ontario and the Ontario Physiotherapy Association for an interactive discussion. Get updates about the organizations, learn about upcoming priorities, and have your say with a chance to get your questions answered.

Light refreshments will be served
We appreciate you registering in advance to help us plan accordingly.

location	date & time	register
Ottawa Holiday Inn & Suites Kanata 101 Kanata Avenue	Wednesday, November 5, 2025 from 6 to 8 pm	Register Now
Brampton Monte Carlo Inn Brampton Suites 45 Coventry Road	Wednesday, November 19, 2025 from 6 to 8 pm	Register Now
Webinar Zoom – attend from anywhere	Thursday, January 22, 2026 6:30 to 8 pm	Register Now
Sudbury Radisson Hotel Sudbury 85 Ste Anne Road	Wednesday, April 8, 2026 from 6 to 8 pm	Register Now

We hope to see you there! If you have any questions about the event, please email the College at communications@collegept.org or the OPA at physiomail@opa.on.ca.

Scope of Practice Expansion Announcement

We are pleased to share that today the Government of Ontario announced proposed changes to expand scope of practice for physiotherapists.

For physiotherapists, proposed scope expansion enables ordering of diagnostic imaging further enabling our ability to diagnose. OPA has long advocated for these changes so that people in Ontario have timely access to care. We are pleased to see this progress and OPA is committed to continue to advocate to take scope expansion across the finish line.

The government has recognized that scope expansion provides more timely access to care for people when they need it most. Supporting and enabling physiotherapists to work to the full extent of their training and expertise will further contribute to the optimal use of Ontario’s health human resources. The regulation changes for physiotherapists are straightforward and within the Ministry’s authority under current legislation, and we look forward to working with the Government to complete this important work this fall.

Sarah Hutchison
Chief Executive Officer
Ontario Physiotherapy Association

Read Ministry News Release