The Situation
To Erik, it didn’t seem like a very big deal to call himself a physiotherapist before he had officially registered with the College. He was almost a physiotherapist. He had successfully completed the clinical exam and was ready to start practicing just as soon as he got his independent practice certificate.
While the College was reviewing his registration application, it came to light that he had been using the title “physiotherapist” and “PT” on resumés and cover letters over the past few months, before becoming registered.
When given the chance to make a submission to the College’s Registration Committee to explain his actions, Erik failed to take this opportunity seriously, and expressed no regret for misusing the title.
The Consequence
Unlike Erik, the Registration Committee takes misuse of the title very seriously. For an applicant to misuse the title during the period when their application is being considered speaks to either ignorance or willful disregard.
The Registration Committee granted Erik his certificate, but imposed multiple terms, condition and limitations, to be removed when each was successfully completed. The Committee was concerned at Erik’s lack of judgement and wanted to be certain he and others understood the seriousness of holding out.
Erik was required to:
- Complete a review of all Standards within 60 days of registration
- Complete the online Jurisprudence Education Program within 3 months of registration
- Complete PISA within 3 months of registration
- Successfully complete an Ethics course within 9 months of registration
- Complete a Practice Assessment within 9 months of registration
Erik was responsible for all costs related to the Ethics course (about $2,500) and the costs associated with the Practice Assessment ($500).