Standards March 2025: Boundary Violations and Sexual Abuse

About the Proposed Standards

Background

The College of Physiotherapists of Ontario is seeking comments on two draft Standards of Practice:

1. Boundary Violations
2. Sexual Abuse

On March 25, 2025, the Board approved the standards to go out for a 60-day consultation to registrants, our partners and the public. After the consultation closes, the Board will take into account the feedback received and decide whether to approve the standards for use.

What do the Proposed Standards Cover?

Below you’ll find a description of each standard’s outcomes and whether it would be a new standard for physiotherapists in Ontario.

1. Boundary Violations

   Physiotherapists establish and maintain appropriate professional boundaries for a safe, respectful and patient-centred environment. 

   This would replace the College’s existing Boundary Violations and Sexual Abuse Standard.

2. Sexual Abuse

   Physiotherapists do not engage in any conduct, behaviour or remarks that constitute sexual abuse under the Regulated Health Professions Act (RHPA).  

   This would replace the College’s existing Boundary Violations and Sexual Abuse Standard.