OPA Update Archives - Page 3 of 5 - Ontario Physiotherapy Association

InterACTION in 2026 and CPA Congress Call for Submissions

The Canadian Physiotherapy Association has opened the Call for Presentations for abstracts to be considered for Congress 2026, hosted in Halifax, Nova Scotia from May 28-30, 2026. The Call for Presentations is open from July 2 until October 9, 2025.

For 2026, OPA has decided to promote participation by Ontario members to both submit proposals for Congress and attend in Halifax in May. By facilitating attendance in alternating years at Congress and OPA’s InterACTION, there is an opportunity to create events with robust discussions from members of the physiotherapy community across the country.

This decision will also enable OPA to imagine and host different types of events in 2026. Stay tuned for details about these innovative offerings throughout 2026. We will be planning to offer our next InterACTION Conference in 2027.

Congress 2026 Submission Requirements

Submissions for CPA Congress 2026 must:

Apply to one of the 18 themes or practice areas identified in the call

Be evidence-informed and directly related to physiotherapy practice

Showcase best practices and innovation

Prioritize engagement and practical application

Congress is an excellent opportunity for Ontario physiotherapists to share their expertise, research, and innovative practices with colleagues from across Canada while contributing to the advancement of the profession nationally.

OPA encourages members to submitting proposals that highlight the outstanding work being done by physiotherapists across Ontario. Your participation helps ensure that Ontario’s voice and expertise are well-represented at this national gathering.

For full details and a submission guide, please visit CPA’s Call for Presentations.

Submission Deadline: October 9, 2025

OPA is Hiring: Director – Practice and Policy

The Ontario Physiotherapy Association (OPA) is searching for a strategic and experienced professional to join our team as Director – Practice and Policy. This permanent, full-time position offers an exceptional opportunity to shape the future of physiotherapy practice across Ontario while advancing the profession through policy development, advocacy, and member services.

Job Description

Director – Practice and Policy – Permanent Full Time Position

The Ontario Physiotherapy Association (OPA) is a dynamic professional non-profit organization with over 5,500 physiotherapist, physiotherapist assistant and student members across the province. We are committed to the values of equity, diversity and inclusion and welcome those who will help us increase our capacity for diversity. OPA welcomes all qualified applicants and we encourage applications from members of groups that have been historically disadvantaged and marginalized, including Black, Indigenous and other racialized persons, and persons with disabilities.

The Director, Practice and Policy, is the Association’s primary contact with and resource to staff, members, volunteers and the public in the areas of practice and policy related to physiotherapy in Ontario. They are responsible for activities that contribute to the achievement of OPA’s strategic goals in member services, professional practice issues and resources, advocacy, policy and strategic partnerships.

Key Responsibilities

Manage internal and external environmental scanning and analysis of existing and emerging legislation and policy pertaining to physiotherapy in Ontario.
Identify and research emerging issues related to the practice of physiotherapy and recommend and implement strategies.
Develop policy and advocacy positions on behalf of OPA members.
Provide support to the Board of Directors, Advisory Committees and other governance groups related to the work of the Association.
Contribute to the development of the Strategic and Operational Plans, monitors and reports on the progress of annual objectives of the Association.
Develop and/or coordinate content related to areas of responsibility for association communication vehicles including newsletter, website and social media.
Lead and manage the education portfolio, including the OPA conference.
Oversee all aspects of members services, including evaluation of current programs and services and recommending and developing new member services to enhance the value of membership.
Participate in the hiring process of staff; responsible for the supervision and development of staff in the practice and policy area.
Acts as senior manager in the absence of the CEO and supports the CEO as a member of senior management.

Requirements

Knowledge:

Knowledge and experience with provincial/regional health systems and health system policy

Graduate degree in a relevant field (e.g. public relations, political science, health policy, public or business administration) an asset

Masters of Science in Physical Therapy – plus current registration with a Canadian regulatory College of Physiotherapists (in good standing)

Experience:

5+ years of progressive leadership experience
Policy & Advocacy experience
Experience working with volunteers in a not-for-profit environment an asset

Skillsets:

5+ years of progressive leadership experience
Policy & Advocacy experience
Experience working with volunteers in a not-for-profit environment an asset
Skillsets:
Excellent interpersonal skills including team building, mentoring, networking and leadership
Strong analytical, facilitation, presentation and communication, including written, skills
Ability to search for and synthesize information and research
Solid time management, organizational and coordination skills
Strong problem-solving skills combined with effective risk management skills

Location
Hybrid – this position is a combination of work from home and in-person at our office location at 110 Sheppard Ave East, Toronto. The successful candidate will need to be available to work regular hours and occasional evenings and weekends.

Compensation
Salary Range: $90,000 to $115,000. Offer commensurate with experience.
Comprehensive Benefit Package.

Contact Information
Interested individuals are directed to forward a letter of interest and resume by Friday, August 22nd 2025.
Send your application to the attention of:
Sarah Hutchison, CEO
sh utchison@opa.on.ca
Please also send electronically to:
apply@opa.on.ca

Special Welcome to PTs Trained Outside of Ontario!

July 29, 2025

As an internationally educated physiotherapist (IEPT) beginning your journey in Canada, we would like to extend a warm welcome to you and the valuable expertise you bring to Ontario’s healthcare community. The Ontario Physiotherapy Association (OPA) is proud to support physiotherapists trained outside of Canada as they establish their careers here.

To help you get started and become part of our professional community, we’re pleased to offer internationally educated physiotherapists a special membership rate. Get 50% off your first year of OPA membership.

Note: The Canadian Physiotherapy Association (CPA) also offers a similar discount for new internationally educated members!

Supporting Your Transition to Practice in Ontario

For physiotherapists who have not practiced in Ontario, we understand that establishing yourself here brings unique opportunities and challenges.

For Canadians who traveled abroad to complete their physiotherapy education, stepping into the Ontario healthcare system after training abroad can still be a learning curve.

That’s why OPA is committed to providing resources, support, and professional connections you need to thrive.

Welcome Membership Pricing: 50% off your first year of OPA membership fees

Note: This special pricing applies to the OPA portion of your conjoint membership with CPA. CPA offers comparable special pricing for internationally educated physiotherapists.

What Your OPA Membership Includes

Professional Support and Resources

Access to compensation reports and fee guidelines to help you understand fair compensation standards in Ontario

Professional development opportunities to enhance your skills and knowledge for practicing in Ontario

Timely *Communications***

All OPA communications including member-only emails, social media updates, and webinars, to keep you informed and connected

Local District Events for networking, professional development, and social connections with fellow physiotherapists in your area

50% discount on all OPA advertising rates

Connection opportunities with other internationally educated physiotherapists and the broader physiotherapy community

Professional Advocacy and Representation

Representation in healthcare policy that affects physiotherapy practice and patient access across all practice sectors

Advocacy for the profession at provincial and national levels

Voice in decisions that impact physiotherapy practice in hospitals, primary care, home care, private practice, and beyond

Support for equity, diversity, inclusion, and accessibility initiatives within the profession

Part of a Vibrant Professional Community

When you join OPA, you become part of Ontario’s 5,500+ and Canada’s 16,000+ community of physiotherapy professionals and students through the conjoint membership structure. You’ll be joining colleagues who share your commitment to providing excellent patient care and advancing the profession.

Why OPA Membership Matters

As part of the Canadian Physiotherapy Association, OPA is a professional organization dedicated to providing leadership, support, and advocacy for its members, enabling Ontarians to access quality physiotherapy services when and where they need them.

We recognize the valuable experience and perspectives that internationally educated physiotherapists bring to our profession. OPA is committed to supporting you in understanding how to access and navigate the Canadian application and registration process. We’re here to help you succeed in your career transition.

Your Professional Home in Ontario

This welcome membership rate acknowledges that you’re building your career in a new environment while bringing valuable international experience to Ontario’s healthcare system. Your membership connects you with resources, colleagues, and opportunities that will help you establish a successful and fulfilling practice in our province.

We’re excited to have you as part of our professional community and look forward to supporting your success as you contribute to physiotherapy care in Ontario.

Ready to Join Our Community?

This special welcome rate is available for internationally educated physiotherapists joining OPA as first-time members and applies to the OPA portion of your conjoint membership.

We invite you to take this opportunity to join Ontario’s professional physiotherapy association and become part of a community that values your expertise and is committed to your professional success.

Join and get the discounted OPA rate for the 2025-2026 year beginning on August 21, 2025 when OPA/CPA co-joint membership opens for the year.

Join Now

Join the Canadian Physiotherapy Association and as an Ontario member, you automatically become a member of OPA with access to all the benefits outlined above.

Exclusive New Graduate Offer: Continue Your OPA Membership for Just $99

July 29, 2025

Congratulations on completing your physiotherapy program! As you transition from student to professional, the Ontario Physiotherapy Association is excited to offer you an exclusive membership deal designed specifically for new graduates.

Special New Graduate Pricing

We’re making it easier than ever for recent graduates to access all the benefits of OPA membership:

Year 1 After Graduation: Just $99* for your OPA membership (regularly $270)
Year 2 After Graduation: 50% Off* regular OPA membership fees

*Note: This special pricing applies to the OPA portion of your conjoint membership with the Canadian Physiotherapy Association (CPA).

What Your OPA Membership Includes

Professional Support and Resources

New to Practice Toolkit including interview tips, compensation considerations, contract information, and more

Access to resources to help you understand your employment status and your rights

Business and personal resources to help you run your own practice, or practice as an employee

Professional Development and Community

All OPA communications including member-only emails, social media, and webinars

Local District Events including networking, social, and professional development opportunities

Member-only resources and tools for your practice

Strong Professional Advocacy

Advocacy for scope of practice implementation and fair compensation

Representation through engagement with the Ministry of Health and Ontario Health and submissions for legislative and policy changes

Voice in healthcare policy through responses and submissions for legislative changes and representation on provincial advisory committees

Part of a Larger Community

When you join OPA, you become part of Ontario’s 5,500+ and Canada’s 16,000+ community of physiotherapy professionals and students through the conjoint membership structure.

Why OPA Membership Matters

As part of the Canadian Physiotherapy Association, OPA is a professional organization whose mission is to provide leadership, support, and advocacy for its members so that Ontarians can access quality physiotherapy services when and where they need it.

As the professional association for physiotherapists, physiotherapist assistants, resident physiotherapists, and physiotherapy and physiotherapy assistant students living in Ontario, we support our members through advocacy, professional development, and career support. We influence and shape decisions that affect the profession and empower our members to provide the utmost in safe and high-quality care to all people and communities served.

Perfect Timing for Your Career

This special pricing recognizes that you’re building your career and gives you access to everything you need to succeed professionally at a price that fits your budget during this important transition period.

Ready to Take Advantage of This Exclusive Offer?

This special pricing is only available for recent graduates and applies to the OPA portion of your conjoint membership.

Don’t miss this opportunity to join Ontario’s professional physiotherapy association at this special rate. Your professional future is worth the investment – and at just $99 for your first year, there’s never been a better time to become an OPA member.

Join or renew your membership and get the discounted OPA rate for the 2025-2026 year beginning on August 21, 2025 when OPA/CPA co-joint membership opens for the year.

Join Now

OPA Campaign Wins Awards

July 17, 2025

OPA currently partners with SalesLoop, a marketing agency, on projects that elevate the profession and the Association and to increase our reach. Based on our strategic plan, OPA determines each year what strategies may require the investment of valuable membership dollars into our campaigns.

Silver from Telly Awards (2025)

In 2024, we launched a campaign “New Voices, New Ideas & New Opportunities” highlighting our change in leadership with our new CEO, Sarah Hutchison, and President, Courtney Bean and how we continue to evolve to meet the needs of the physiotherapy community. We also showcased our Board of Directors and the value we continue to bring to our members.

SalesLoop entered our campaign into the Telly Awards competition, and we won a Silver Award! By winning a Silver, our project was recognized as an exclusive group of work that meets higher than average standards. Watch the award winning video below.

Campaign Also Wins 3 Gold Healthcare Digital Marketing Awards (2024)

This same campaign, “New Voices, New Ideas & New Opportunities” also won three gold Healthcare Digital Marketing Awards for our campaign emails, microsite and video.

Why Does This Matter?

Winning awards not only feels great but demonstrates that we are investing your membership dollars into campaigns that are effective in meeting our goals and elevating the profession. We have partnered with SalesLoop since 2016 and they continue to go above and beyond. They ensure that our objectives are thoughtfully considered so that we can determine together the best and most cost-effective ways to meet our goals.

About the Telly Awards (2025)

The Tellys honour excellence in video and television across all screens. The Telly Awards recognize work in Branded Content, Commercials & Marketing, Immersive & Mixed Reality, Non-Broadcast, Online and Television Series, Shows & Segments, Social Video, and Film & Shorts.

The competition received over 13,000 entries globally from six continents and all 50 U.S. states.

Entries were judged by a council of over 250 industry experts from organizations such as Netflix, Adobe, PlutoTV, Gymnasium, RunwayML, and more

Gold Telly Award is the highest honour, awarded exclusively to the top 3% of winning entries, representing the highest marker of excellence.

Silver Telly Award is awarded to entries that meet a high standard of creative distinction but do not reach the Gold level.

Bronze Telly Award recognizes commendable work that meets the entry criteria but scores lower than Silver and Gold.

Learn more

About the Healthcare Digital Marketing Awards (2024)

The Healthcare Digital Marketing Awards recognizes the best healthcare websites, digital content, electronic communications, mobile media and social media.

This national competition began its efforts to recognize the field of healthcare marketing and advertising in the pioneering area of digital marketing.

OPA was won 3 of the 190 awards issued in 2024

Gold (102), Silver (48), Bronze (24), and Merit (16)

A total of 62 institutions were awarded

Learn more

Advocacy at OPA’s Summer Home Care Advisory Committee

July 16, 2025

OPA’s four clinical advisory committees meet quarterly, and in their recent June meetings, engaged in thoughtful and informative discussions around several advocacy items.

The Home Care Advisory Committee met on June 18, 2025 and focused its advocacy discussions on:

addressing compensation disparities within the sector—particularly between physiotherapists and occupational therapists

and addressing the need for public education on the role of physiotherapy in home care.

The committee also explored strategies to optimize service delivery through better role clarity, targeted recruitment for broader representation, and raised concerns about the exclusion of rehabilitation services in new healthcare infrastructure planning.

Advocacy at OPA’s Summer Primary Care Advisory Committee

July 16, 2025

OPA’s four clinical advisory committees meet quarterly, and in their recent June meetings, engaged in thoughtful and informative discussions around several advocacy items.

The Primary Care Advisory Committee met on June 23, 2025 and focused its advocacy discussions on:

promoting fair compensation for physiotherapists across sectors

supporting the integration of physiotherapy into primary care through new and repurposed roles

preparing to influence future funding opportunities.

The committee also emphasized the importance of musculoskeletal care as a key advocacy message, explored opportunities for private-primary care partnerships, and discussed strategies to align physiotherapy roles with the goals of the new Primary Care Act.

Advocacy at OPA’s Summer Hospital Advisory Committee

July 16, 2025

OPA’s four clinical advisory committees meet quarterly, and in their recent June meetings, engaged in thoughtful and informative discussions around several advocacy items.

The Hospital Advisory Committee met on June 17, 2025 and focused its advocacy discussions on addressing:

critical recruitment and retention challenges for physiotherapists and PTAs in hospitals

emphasizing the need for formal strategies, mentorship programs, and equitable incentives comparable to other health professions.

The committee also discussed the impact of the proposed removal of provisional practice on hospital hiring and highlighted rising patient acuity as a pressing issue requiring improved staffing models and coordinated discharge planning.

Advocacy at OPA’s Summer Private Practice Advisory Committee

July 16, 2025

OPA’s four clinical advisory committees meet quarterly, and in their recent June meetings, engaged in thoughtful and informative discussions around several advocacy items.

The Private Practice Advisory Committee met on June 26, 2025 and focused its advocacy discussions on several key areas:

responding to the College of Physiotherapists of Ontario’s consultation on provisional registration

advancing a strong position on Jordan’s Principle in partnership with the Chiefs of Ontario

advocating for changes in the FSRA auto sector system

planning updates to the Fee Guideline to better support equitable and informed physiotherapy practice across the province

Happy National Physiotherapy Month 2025!

May 27, 2025

At Queens Park, MPP France Gélinas took time to wish the entire physiotherapy community a very happy National Physiotherapy Month, along with OPA CEO Sarah Hutchison.

InterACTION in 2026 and CPA Congress Call for Submissions