Mandatory Reporting

What Physiotherapists are Legally Required to Report to their College

Regulated health professionals, including physiotherapists and those who work with or employ them have legal and ethical obligations to make reports to the College of Physiotherapists of Ontario and other colleges and agencies as required under the Regulated Health Professions Act. See a list of types of mandatory reports below.

What Happens When the College Receives a Report?

Not every report that the College receives requires a formal investigation. The Registrar reviews each report that is received along with any information about the physiotherapist that the College may have previously received and assesses the level of risk posed to the public. The Registrar then determines an appropriate regulatory response. 


Failure to file a mandatory report is an offence, which may be punishable by a fine of up to $25,000 by the government and constitutes professional misconduct.

Mandatory Reports to the College and Other Organizations

This list does not include every obligation nor should it be considered legal advice.  

Reports that Must Be Filed with a Regulatory College

  • Sexual Abuse—By a Regulated Health Care Provider

  • When a Health Care Provider May be Incapacitated or Incompetent

  • Termination of Employment/Resignation

  • Holding Out as a Physiotherapist

  • Offences—Mandatory Report

  • Findings in Other Jurisdictions

  • Negligence/Malpractice

  • Privacy Breaches

Reports Required by Other Organizations

  • Child Abuse or Neglect

  • Abuse or Neglect in Long-Term Care or Retirement Homes

  • Privacy Breaches: Reports to Affected Person

  • Privacy Breaches: Reports to Information and Privacy Commissioner

  • Privacy Breaches: By Non-Regulated Health Care Providers

  • Annual Report—Privacy Breaches

  • Disclosure to Prevent Harm