This is a reminder that the new standards and Code of Ethical Conduct will come into effect August 1, 2024. All physiotherapists and PT residents must follow the new requirements as of August 1. 

To support you in understanding the new requirements and expectations, we have included key highlights from each of the four standards and the Code of Ethical Conduct below.

While these highlights provide a helpful at-a-glance look at what's new or notable, please read the standards and Code of Ethical Conduct in full to understand the complete scope of the updated requirements. Everything is available in English and French on the Standards and Resources page of our website.

As always, we're here to support you in the delivery of high-quality care. If you have any questions, you are welcome to contact the Practice Advisors at advice@collegept.org or 1-800-583-5885 ext. 241.

Assessment, Diagnosis, Treatment Standard

1. Obtain patients’ ongoing informed consent to physiotherapy services. 
2. Select and apply appropriate assessment procedures.
3. Determine an informed and appropriate diagnosis.
4. Apply treatment procedures safely and effectively.
5. Evaluate, monitor, and document patients’ responses throughout the course of treatment.

Communication Standard

1. Avoid disrespectful, dishonest, or misleading communication.
2. Engage in active listening. 
3. Communicate with everyone in the circle of care, including patients, team members, and caregivers. 
4. Maintain patient confidentiality. 
5. Document all communications accurately, clearly, professionally, and in a timely manner.

Duty of Care Standard

This Standard replaces the Providing or Refusing Care Standard and maintains its previous expectations. 

1. Support patients in making informed decisions about their care.
2. Provide care that is free from discrimination and ensure personal judgments don't compromise a patient’s care.
3. Build and sustain positive therapeutic relationships with patients.
4. Employ respectful conflict resolution strategies.
5. Document and communicate any discontinuation of care, and arrange for continuity of care when possible.  

Read the standard

Risk Management and Safety Standard

1. Identify potential risks to patient safety.
2. Incorporate appropriate measures to mitigate and manage identified risks.
3. Recognize when patient safety incidents and near misses occur and respond immediately to minimize the impact on the patient.
4. Document all patient safety incidents and near misses.
5. Maintain individual competency in safety protocols, procedures, and risk mitigation measures relevant to your practice.

Read the standard

Code of Ethical Conduct

Below is a summary of the ethical responsibilities outlined in the new Code of Ethical Conduct.

This revised code replaces the previous REACH model, and must be followed by all physiotherapists and PT residents.

Responsibilities to the Patient

• Patient-Centered Care: PTs are kind and fair, respecting each patient's unique needs, beliefs, and background.
• Collaboration: PTs work closely with patients, communicating openly and honestly to improve their health outcomes and wellbeing.
• Professional Boundaries: PTs honour and respect the therapeutic relationship.
  

Responsibilities to the Public

• Integrity and Professionalism: PTs are honest and transparent in their work and business practices.
• Patient Advocacy: PTs speak up for patient needs within their capacity, have a broader aim to improve healthcare standards, and report any unsafe or unethical practices.
• Responsible Use of Resources: PTs use healthcare resources wisely and regularly check the quality of their services.
  

Responsibilities to Self and the Profession

• Professional Reputation: PTs uphold a positive reputation for the profession and inspire public trust.
• Continuous Learning: PTs maintain ongoing learning throughout their careers and aim for high standards in their work.
• Strengthening the Profession: PTs support research, mentor students, and help develop and facilitate excellence within the profession.

Read the Code of Ethical Conduct