Speakers: Jody Prohar and Leanne Loranger On this episode, Jody and Leanne discuss the new Health Equity and Anti-Discrimination and Indigenous Cultural Safety & Humility standards of practice and the recently published Indigenous Cultural Safety, Health Equity, and Anti-Discrimination guide. Over the last four years, the College of Physiotherapists of Alberta has been on a learning journey. We began our work in response to two key events, the publication of the Truth and Reconciliation Commission’s Calls to Action, and the events of the summer of 2020, including the murder of George Floyd and the Black Lives Matter movement. In October 2024 the College announced that updated standards of practice have been approved and take effect on January 1, 2025, including the Health Equity and Anti-Discrimination and the Indigenous Cultural Safety and Humility standards. On September 30, 2024, the College also published the Indigenous Cultural Safety, Health Equity, and Anti-Discrimination guide which provides additional information to help physiotherapists implement the standards in their practice and understand the steps they can take to fulfill the performance expectations found in the standard. Tune in to this episode to learn more about the standards, the guide and the work the College has undertaken since 2020. Resources: ·       Indigenous Cultural Safety, Health Equity, & Anti-Discrimination Guide. https://www.cpta.ab.ca/for-physiotherapists/resources/guides-and-guidelines/indigenous-cultural-safety-health-equity-anti-discrimination-guide/ ·       Truth and Reconciliation Commission of Canada: Calls to Action. https://ehprnh2mwo3.exactdn.com/wp-content/uploads/2021/01/Calls_to_Action_English2.pdf ·       In Plain Sight: Addressing Indigenous-specific Racism and Discrimination in BC Health Care. https://engage.gov.bc.ca/app/uploads/sites/613/2020/11/In-Plain-Sight-Summary-Report.pdf ·       National Inquiry Into Missing and Murdered Indigenous Women and Girls. https://www.mmiwg-ffada.ca/final-report/ ·      Standards of Practice for Physiotherapists in Alberta (2025): https://www.cpta.ab.ca/docs/272/_CombinedStandards.pdf Links: Subscribe on Apple Podcasts Subscribe on Google Podcasts Subscribe on Spotify

Speakers: Jody Prohar and Leanne Loranger At their September meeting, Council voted to approve the updated Standards of Practice for Alberta Physiotherapists. These updated standards will be in effect as of January 1, 2025. On this episode of College Conversations, Jody and Leanne provide listeners with an update about the Standards of Practice including: ·       The process the College used to develop standards that were right-touch and risk-based (and what those terms mean to regulators), and ·       Highlights of the major changes, including standards that are being retired and new standards added. It is up to each physiotherapist to meet the performance expectations established in the standards. Being unaware of the standards of practice is not an acceptable explanation if a professional conduct matter arises related to your practice.   The revised Standards will be available on the College’s website in November 2024 and will take effect on January 1, 2025.   As that date approaches, Alberta physiotherapists are encouraged to review the standards to make sure they understand what is required of them. If you do not understand the performance expectations, check the College’s website, or contact the College’s Practice Advisor for more information.   Links: Subscribe on Apple Podcasts Subscribe on Google Podcasts Subscribe on Spotify

Speakers: Jody Prohar and Leanne Loranger On this episode of College Conversations, Jody and Leanne ask Alberta physiotherapists ‘are you engaged in a risky business?’ Listen to the episode to learn more about risky business arrangements that the College has become aware of in recent years. What does it mean to put the client’s interests first? How can physiotherapists identify and avoid conflicts of interest in which their own financial or personal interests are prioritized ahead of the client’s interests? How does this discussion relate to the rules in place related to provision of professional services and the role of the most responsible physiotherapist? Listen to the episode for answers to these questions and more. Resources: ·      Good Practice: Is your business keeping your client’s best interests at heart? ·      Good Practice: What makes it physiotherapy? ·      AHPRA: Concerns raised over emerging models of care. Links: •          Subscribe on Apple Podcasts •          Subscribe on Google Podcasts •          Subscribe on Spotify

Over the last couple of years, there has been a steady increase in the public discourse about artificial intelligence or AI. Since the release of the generative AI tool ChatGPT4 in spring of 2023 we have seen the emergence of AI tools designed to support charting of health care services and platforms to support clinical decision making in health care, including those designed for or applicable to physiotherapy practice. What does this all mean for Alberta physiotherapists? Can physiotherapists use AI in clinical practice? What are the risks they should be aware of? Check out this episode to learn more about regulatory considerations of consent, privacy, quality and accuracy; and the physiotherapist’s responsibilities if they choose to use AI tools in their practice. While it’s easy to get caught up in the hype about these tools, physiotherapists need to take the time to understand the AI tools they use and what they do and don’t offer.  Resources: ·        Links: Subscribe on Apple Podcasts Subscribe on Google Podcasts Subscribe on Spotify

Speakers: Amanda Gould and Leanne Loranger Amanda Gould, Indigenous Knowledge Keeper, and Cultural Advisor to the College joins Leanne on this special, extended episode, of College Conversations. We discuss the sharing circles the College engaged in earlier this year, bringing Indigenous people and physiotherapists together, and the key learnings that arose from the sharing circles. Listen to this episode to learn more about what sharing circles are, what the College learned from the sharing circles held in early 2024, and the College’s next steps towards addressing Indigenous cultural safety and health equity. Resources: ·        Links: Subscribe on Apple Podcasts Subscribe on Google Podcasts Subscribe on Spotify

Speakers: Sean FitzGerald and Leanne Loranger In this episode, Sean and Leanne discuss video recording in physiotherapy practice settings, including video surveillance, generating recordings of virtual visits, and creating videos of patient instructions or home exercise programs as part of in-person visits. Physiotherapists usually provide lots of information to clients, and there can be benefits to providing video summaries of information. However, physiotherapists need to consider the privacy, record keeping, and consent issues that arise if they create videos in their practice settings and take steps to proactively address these issues. Physiotherapists should also consider the potential that a client may record a clinical interaction, either with their knowledge and consent or not. Resources: ·      Office of the Information and Privacy Commissioner of Alberta. Video Surveillance in the Private Sector. ·      Office of the Information and Privacy Commissioner of Alberta. Bring Your Own Device (BYOD) Programs. Links: Subscribe on Apple Podcasts Subscribe on Google Podcasts Subscribe on Spotify

Speakers: Jody Prohar and Leanne Loranger Physiotherapists adhere to the legislation that applies to their practice. That responsibility is enshrined in the Code of Ethical Conduct. But what legislation, exactly, is included when we say that? In this episode, Jody and Leanne review some of the often-overlooked legislation that applies to practice and its relevance to physiotherapists, including the: ·       Radiation Protection Act   ·       Protection for Persons in Care Act ·       Child, Youth and Family Enhancement Act ·       Occupational Health and Safety Act, and ·       Public Health Act We begin with a discussion of the Radiation Protection Act, which was repealed in 2021, and the legislation established in its place to regulate lasers. Later in the episode, we discuss the practice setting inspections enabled by the Occupational Health and Safety and Public Health Acts. Are you aware that inspectors have the legislated authority under both Acts to perform practice site inspections? What can we learn from physiotherapists who have had their practice settings inspected? What are our legislated responsibilities as physiotherapists? Listen to this episode to learn more! Resources: ·       Legislation related to Practice – CPTA.  https://www.cpta.ab.ca/for-physiotherapists/resources/legislation-related-to-practice/ ·       Occupational Health and Safety Act Act  https://www.canlii.org/en/ab/laws/stat/sa-2020-c-o-2.2/latest/sa-2020-c-o-2.2.html ·       Public Health Act https://www.canlii.org/en/ab/laws/stat/rsa-2000-c-p-37/latest/rsa-2000-c-p-37.html#Part_2_Administration_32475 ·       IPC Guide CPTA -  https://www.cpta.ab.ca/docs/67/IPC_Guide-Revised_Human_Rights_11.30.23.pdf Links: Subscribe on Apple Podcasts Subscribe on Google Podcasts Subscribe on Spotify

Speakers: Sean FitzGerald and Leanne Loranger “A bystander is a person who is present at an event or incident but does not take part.” What does bystander intervention mean and why does bystander intervention matter for physiotherapists? In late 2023 and early 2024, the College highlighted trends in allegations of sexual abuse and sexual misconduct received by the College of Physiotherapists of Alberta. One of the College’s messages is that we need the help of all physiotherapists to disrupt these trends by intervening when they see conduct that is either clearly sexual misconduct or is tipping in the direction of becoming inappropriate. Further, the Standards of Practice and Code of Ethical Conduct call upon physiotherapists to act when they observe others acting in a racist or discriminatory manner towards others. In short, physiotherapists need to shift from witness to intervenor when they observe an incident or conduct in the practice setting that is not consistent with professional norms and expectations. In this podcast we discuss highlights and take away messages from the February 2024 Introduction to Bystander Intervention webinar the College hosted with the Sexual Assault Centre of Edmonton. Do you know the 4Ds of bystander intervention and how to apply them? Check out this episode to learn more! Resources: ·       Webinar:  https://www.cpta.ab.ca/news-and-updates/webinars/an-introduction-to-bystander-intervention/ Links: Subscribe on Apple Podcasts Subscribe on Google Podcasts Subscribe on Spotify

Speakers: Jody Prohar and Leanne Loranger When you think about the College’s past messaging about its role – that it exists to safeguard and serve the public interest and receives its mandate from the Government of Alberta, on some level it’s understandable that physiotherapists might ask, “if that’s the case, why am I footing the bill?” In this conversation, Jody and Leanne address the age-old question of “what’s in it for me?” when it comes to regulation. Along the way, they discuss the contract that exists between government and regulated health professionals, different regulatory models, and the concept of co-regulation. They touch on the benefits physiotherapists gain through regulation and what could potentially occur if the profession was not regulated. Being a regulated health professional offers benefits but it also demands that we work to continually raise the bar for ourselves and those around us.  Albertans deserve a physiotherapy profession that is accountable and that serves the public’s interests. Listen to this episode to learn more about the benefits and obligations of being a regulated health professional. Resources: ·       Webinar: What does it mean to be a member of a self-regulating profession in 2021? Links: Subscribe on Apple Podcasts Subscribe on Google Podcasts Subscribe on Spotify

Speakers: Jody Prohar and Leanne Loranger All physiotherapists need a basic awareness of the rules of practice and professional expectations for physiotherapists in Alberta. The College uses many tools to get that information into your hands, to make you aware of and help you understand and meet your regulatory responsibilities. You can’t fulfill a responsibility if you don’t know about it or don’t understand what it means, but we need you to meet us halfway, At the end of 2023, the College engaged in a review of its communications practices. In this episode, Jody and Leanne discuss the findings of the communications review and actions the College is planning to address the feedback received and to try to make our communication efforts more effective. If you have ever asked yourself why the College spends time and resources on communications, or wondered what resources are available to help physiotherapists understand the rules of practice, this episode is for you. Listen to the episode to learn more about the resources the College creates, the feedback received during the review, and some of the changes we are working on. Resources: Links: Subscribe on Apple Podcasts Subscribe on Google Podcasts Subscribe on Spotify

Speakers: Sean FitzGerald and Leanne Loranger The Consent Standard of Practice and Consent Guide for Alberta Physiotherapists both refer to the importance of ensuring that a physiotherapist has ongoing informed consent when providing physiotherapy services. The College often hears from physiotherapists and others who have questions about the College’s expectations related to ongoing consent. Does ongoing informed consent mean that the physiotherapist must engage in an extensive discussion of the risks, benefits, and options for care at every visit? Can a physiotherapist ensure that the patient continues to consent to treatment at subsequent visits by asking a few simple questions and being alert to the patient’s replies? Does a patient’s attendance at an appointment mean that ongoing informed consent is in place? In this episode Sean and Leanne answer these questions and more and highlight the risks that can arise if express ongoing informed consent is not sought and received. What does this look like in clinical practice? Listen to the episode to learn more. Resources: ·       Consent Standard of Practice ·       Consent Guide for Alberta Physiotherapists Links: Subscribe on Apple Podcasts Subscribe on Google Podcasts Subscribe on Spotify

Speakers: Jody Prohar and Leanne Loranger On this episode of College Conversations Jody and Leanne continue the discussion of trends in complaints related to allegations of sexual abuse and sexual misconduct, highlighting one of the underlying themes identified from the review of these complaints – communication. They discuss the comments highlighted in the #WordsMatter infographic and why they are problematic. They connect the concerning comments back to the concept of professional boundaries, the importance of maintaining therapeutic relationships, and the difference between therapeutic relationships and personal relationships. They also discuss the important roles that context, non-verbal and para-verbal communication play when it comes to how a comment is received, highlighting that how a comment is received depends on both the person speaking and the person on the receiving end of the comment. Towards the end of the episode, they touch on trauma-informed practice and highlight some tips for integrating a trauma informed approach into daily patient interactions. Communication is one of the hardest skills to master and one that physiotherapists can spend their entire careers developing. Check out this episode to learn more. Resources: ·       Sexual Abuse and Sexual Misconduct Standard of Practice ·       Words Matter: Comments & Sexual Misconduct Infographic Links: Subscribe on Apple Podcasts Subscribe on Google Podcasts Subscribe on Spotify

Speakers:  Jody Prohar, Sean FitzGerald, and Leanne Loranger In this episode, Jody, Sean, and Leanne discuss common questions and issues related to physiotherapy business practices. ·       Is it appropriate for a physiotherapist to continue to sell their services without demonstrable progress towards the patient’s goals, or is that a conflict of interest? ·       Where does demonstrable progress fit into decisions about providing ongoing care or discharging a patient? ·       What about maintenance plans for patients with chronic conditions? ·       Are there rules or requirements to keep in mind when selling physiotherapy equipment or products? ·       What about incentive contracts that see physiotherapists receive a bonus based on volume of product sales?   ·       What are the risks of accepting pre-payment for physiotherapy services? We address all these questions in this episode. Resources: ·       Conflict of Interest Standard of Practice ·       Fees and Billing Standard of Practice ·       Code of Ethical Conduct Links: Subscribe on Apple Podcasts Subscribe on Google Podcasts Subscribe on Spotify

Speakers:  Leanne Loranger, Jody Prohar, and Joyce Vogelgesang On this episode of College Conversations Jody, Joyce, and Leanne talk about concerning trends in the number and nature of complaints received by the College during the 2022-2023 registration year. The College has seen an increase in the number of complaints received, and the number of complaints pertaining to sexual abuse particularly. Four years have passed since the Sexual Abuse and Sexual Misconduct Standard of Practice came into force. In this episode, Jody, Joyce, and Leanne review the key components of the Standard of Practice and discuss some of the actions by health professionals that have led to complaints of sexual abuse or sexual misconduct. Find out how recent complaints data from the College of Physiotherapists of Alberta compares to that of other “hands on” health professions in Alberta. The College is concerned about these statistics and physiotherapists should be too. Listen to this episode to understand why the College is calling on all registrants to revisit the performance expectations established in the Standard and to reflect on their current practice and interactions with patients. Resources: ·       Sexual Abuse and Sexual Misconduct Standard of Practice ·       College of Physiotherapists of Alberta - Complaints   Links: Subscribe on Apple Podcasts Subscribe on Google Podcasts Subscribe on Spotify

Speakers:  Leanne Loranger and Sean FitzGerald Being a member of a small community poses some unique challenges for regulated health professionals. There is the potential for conflicts of interest and risks related to the ability to set and maintain appropriate professional boundaries with patients. What does the College mean when it says that physiotherapists should refrain from providing services to an individual with whom they have a close personal relationship? Which relationships are considered to be a close personal relationship? What are some recommendations if you do need to treat someone with whom you also have a personal relationship? What about the challenges of navigating a small community and informal interactions with past or current patients occurring outside of the practice setting? How can physiotherapists also have a life outside of work as a member of a small community? What about making friends in town or developing a network of peer health professionals with whom to discuss challenging situations? We address the College’s perspective on these questions and more in this episode.     Resources: ·       Conflict of Interest Standard of Practice ·       Therapeutic Relationships Guide for Alberta Physiotherapists ·       Good Practice – Conflict of Interest Links: Subscribe on Apple Podcasts Subscribe on Google Podcasts Subscribe on Spotify

One of the most common topics of the questions brought to the College is that of privacy and the legislative and regulatory requirements that physiotherapists must meet in relation to patient privacy. With physiotherapists subject to as many as four different pieces of privacy legislation depending on their area of practice and patient population, it’s easy to understand why. In this episode of College Conversations, Sean and Leanne complete a brief review of privacy legislation in Alberta, the core principles that they share, and the differences between different pieces of legislation. In the second half of the episode, they answer some frequently asked and recent challenging questions that the College has received. Leanne and Sean also highlight the many resources available, both through the College of Physiotherapists of Alberta and from the Office of the Information and Privacy Commissioner of Alberta, to help physiotherapists navigate the complicated world of privacy in physiotherapy practice. Resources: ·       Privacy Standard ·       Privacy Guide ·       Leaving a Practice Guide ·       OPIC Video Surveillance in the Private Sector ·       OPIC Bring Your Own Device Resources Links: Subscribe on Apple Podcasts Subscribe on Google Podcasts Subscribe on Spotify

Speakers:  Leanne Loranger and Sean FitzGerald Physiotherapist support workers are an essential element to a functioning health system. In this episode, Leanne and Sean discuss the range of backgrounds, educations and experiences people working as physiotherapist support workers may possess and the implications of physiotherapist support workers being unregulated health providers. They review the performance expectations that physiotherapists must adhere to when supervising physiotherapist support workers and the importance of understanding the skills and knowledge of the physiotherapist support workers you work with. Toward the end of the episode, they discuss the College’s perspective on the importance of establishing when a supervision relationship exists between a physiotherapist and an unregulated health provider and touch on the different methods of supervision physiotherapists can employ when supervising physiotherapist support workers. Resources: ·       Supervision Standard of Practice ·       Supervision Guide for Alberta Physiotherapists Links: Subscribe on Apple Podcasts Subscribe on Google Podcasts Subscribe on Spotify

Speakers:  Jody Prohar and Leanne Loranger Over the last few months, there has been a near constant stream of media coverage related to health workforce labour shortages and actions taken by governments, regulators, and other organizations to address the issue. In this episode, Jody and Leanne discuss actions taken by the provincial governments in Ontario and Nova Scotia and recent changes to Alberta legislation that are all intended to attract health professionals to the respective provinces. They provide an overview of the Fair Registration Practices Act and the Labour Mobility Act - two pieces of legislation which apply to the physiotherapy workforce. These pieces of legislation establish specific timelines and responsibilities for the College of Physiotherapists of Alberta related to registering physiotherapists who are moving to Alberta from other jurisdictions – both from within Canada and from other countries.   What does it all mean for Alberta physiotherapists? Listen to the episode to find out more. Resources: ·       Government of Alberta. Fair Registration Practices Code.   ·       Government of Alberta. Labour Mobility Within Canada.   Links: Subscribe on Apple Podcasts Subscribe on Google Podcasts Subscribe on Spotify

Speakers:  Jody Prohar and Leanne Loranger The College of Physiotherapists of Alberta has had provision of professional services rules in place for several years. The rules stem from the College’s legislated authority to “approve practice settings where physiotherapists provide services.” In this episode, Jody and Leanne discuss the rationale behind the rules, policy updates that were implemented in 2023, and what those updates mean for physiotherapists and business owners. Do you have questions about: ·       The role of the designated owner of a practice setting? ·       The mandatory learning modules in place for Most Responsible Physiotherapists (MRPTs) and some business owners? ·       The agreement that MRPTs enter into with the College? ·       The transition to online applications? If so, this is the episode for you! Resources: Episode 37: Thinking About Opening a Physiotherapy Business? Start Here! College of Physiotherapists of Alberta. Provision of Professional Services. Links: Subscribe on Apple Podcasts Subscribe on Google Podcasts Subscribe on Spotify

Physiotherapists have fundamental obligations to provide safe, competent, effective care to their clients, and to provide for continuity of care whenever a therapeutic relationship has been established. The concept of a duty of care underlies long standing professional norms and expectations. In this episode we discuss recurring challenges that physiotherapists may encounter related to the duty of care that they have towards their clients, including: ·       The physiotherapist’s responsibility to maintain the therapeutic relationship and take responsibility for conflict resolution. ·       Challenges related to discharging patients who still require treatment, but with whom the physiotherapist is unable to maintain a therapeutic relationship, and the physiotherapist’s responsibility to arrange for continuity of care. ·       Expectations related to informed consent and shared decision making such as the requirements of avoiding providing inappropriate or ineffective treatment and respecting the patient’s right to make decisions about their own care. We also discuss how to navigate the challenging situations that can arise when a patient declines or refuses treatment and the physiotherapist thinks the patient’s choice of action is unsafe. The Standards of Practice and Code of Ethical Conduct set out the expectations for physiotherapists related to duty of care. In this episode we elaborate on those expectations and discuss real world scenarios that physiotherapists may encounter from time to time. Resources: Code of Ethical Conduct https://www.cpta.ab.ca/for-physiotherapists/regulatory-expectations/code-of-ethics/  Standards of Practice https://www.cpta.ab.ca/for-physiotherapists/regulatory-expectations/standards-of-practice/ Links: Subscribe on Apple Podcasts Subscribe on Google Podcasts Subscribe on Spotify

Speakers:  Jody Prohar, Joyce Vogelgesang, and Leanne Loranger To be eligible to renew their College of Physiotherapists of Alberta practice permit each year, physiotherapists are required to meet currency of practice requirements. The most common way to meet these requirements is to have engaged in the practice of physiotherapy for at least 1200 hours in the 5 registration years immediately preceding the application for permit renewal. Each year the College of Physiotherapists of Alberta receives many questions from regulated physiotherapists regarding practice hours and currency of practice requirements. Have you ever wondered ·       How many hours a registrant must work to meet the currency of practice requirements? ·       What types of hours count towards meeting the currency requirements? ·       Whether a physiotherapist is required to count their hours of practice? ·       When to report physiotherapy practice hours and what information to include? And ·       What happens if the physiotherapist does not meet the currency requirement? If so, this episode is for you! Resources: Practice Permit Renewal. https://www.cpta.ab.ca/for-physiotherapists/registration-information/practice-permit-renewal/ Links: Subscribe on Apple Podcasts Subscribe on Google Podcasts Subscribe on Spotify

Speakers:  Leanne Loranger and Jody Prohar In recent years, the Government of Alberta has passed legislative changes intended to modernize health profession regulation in Alberta and ensure that health regulators focus solely on serving the public interest. Historically, physiotherapists selected to serve on Council were elected through the annual Council election process that many Alberta physiotherapists will be familiar with. However, Council election processes can send a contradictory message to regulated members, Council members, and the public, creating the perception that Council is elected to serve the interests of physiotherapists. Beginning in 2023, the College will be moving to a competency-based appointment process for new physiotherapist members of Council. Listen to this episode to find out more about the change and how physiotherapists can become involved. Resources: Changing the Council Selection Process. https://www.cpta.ab.ca/news-and-updates/news/changing-the-council-selection-process/ Links: Subscribe on Apple Podcasts Subscribe on Google Podcasts Subscribe on Spotify

Speakers:  Leanne Loranger and Jody Prohar Do you know the rules related to advertising the physiotherapy services you provide? Each month the College receives several calls and emails from physiotherapists and patients alike asking if offers of free services, use of comparative statements, or other common marketing practices are permitted by the College. In 2023, the College is instituting a proactive approach to enforce the Advertising Standard of Practice, implementing a tool to monitor the websites and social media profiles of physiotherapists. If the tool identifies an issue, the College will contact the registrant about the issue and advise them of the necessary changes. If an issue is not addressed, or reoccurs, it may result in a fine or conduct process, as it may be viewed as disregard for the Standards of Practice. The College’s ultimate goal is to scan physiotherapy websites and social media accounts and find no issues. The hope is that through this process people will understand the seriousness of the matter and will take the necessary corrective actions. Resources: Standards of Practice for Alberta Physiotherapists. https://www.cpta.ab.ca/for-physiotherapists/regulatory-expectations/standards-of-practice/ Links: Subscribe on Apple Podcasts Subscribe on Google Podcasts Subscribe on Spotify

Speakers:  Leanne Loranger and Jody Prohar The Standards of Practice for Physiotherapists in Alberta are being revised, with updated Standards intended to be adopted in 2023. In this episode, Jody and Leanne talk about the core documents of the profession, the legislation governing practice, Bylaws, Code of Ethical Conduct, and the Standards as well as the purpose of each of these documents. The process the College used for revising the Standards and the data considered when making the proposed changes is described in detail. Each regulated physiotherapist is responsible for their conduct and for meeting the expectations articulated in the Standards and other foundational documents. Defenses like “I didn’t know the rules,” “my colleague said it was OK,” or “those were the rules when I graduated” are not acceptable, so take the time to get to know the Standards and watch for changes in the future. Resources: Standards of Practice for Alberta Physiotherapists. https://www.cpta.ab.ca/for-physiotherapists/regulatory-expectations/standards-of-practice/ Governing Legislation. https://www.cpta.ab.ca/for-physiotherapists/regulatory-expectations/governing-legislation/ Code of Ethical Conduct. https://www.cpta.ab.ca/for-physiotherapists/regulatory-expectations/code-of-ethics/ Links: Subscribe on Apple Podcasts Subscribe on Google Podcasts Subscribe on Spotify

Speakers:  Leanne Loranger and Jody Prohar Nearly a year after formally ceasing association functions, Jody and Leanne discuss the respective roles of the College of Physiotherapists of Alberta and the newly formed Alberta Association of Physiotherapy. The College regularly hears from physiotherapists who are unsure which organization can help them with the questions or concerns they have. In this episode we answer some of the most common questions received over the last several months. Who do you talk to about registering and getting a practice permit? When starting a new business? Or when looking for a physiotherapist to treat a specific condition or one that’s authorized to perform a restricted activity? Jody and Leanne cover these topics and more in this episode. Links: Subscribe on Apple Podcasts Subscribe on Google Podcasts Subscribe on Spotify

Speakers:  Leanne Loranger and Sean FitzGerald In this episode, Leanne and Sean talk about the diverse group of individuals that make up the physiotherapist intern population and the supervision of physiotherapist interns as they transition into practice in Alberta. They discuss the specific duties that the supervising physiotherapist needs to fulfill when they agree to be a supervisor, including assessing the physiotherapist intern’s skills, making a supervision plan, assigning activities to the physiotherapist intern, and providing ongoing supervision.   Leanne and Sean talk through responsibilities of each party if something goes wrong at the 12:30 minute mark. At the 15:10 minute mark they discuss challenging scenarios that can arise related to billing for physiotherapy services provided by physiotherapist interns and considerations for hiring physiotherapist interns into remote and rural locations. Resources: Supervision Guide for Alberta Physiotherapists. College of Physiotherapists of Alberta. https://www.cpta.ab.ca/for-physiotherapists/resources/guides-and-guidelines/supervision-guide/   Supervision Standard of Practice. College of Physiotherapists of Alberta. https://www.cpta.ab.ca/for-physiotherapists/regulatory-expectations/standards-of-practice/supervision/ Links: Subscribe on Apple Podcasts Subscribe on Google Podcasts Subscribe on Spotify

Speakers:  Leanne Loranger and Jody Prohar In this episode Jody and Leanne discuss the current landscape of telerehabilitation use by physiotherapists in Alberta, cover frequent questions that came up during the COVID-19 pandemic, and bust common telerehabilitation myths. Do you have questions about: Setting fees for telerehabilitation services? Expectations regarding safety and risk management? Privacy and rules for where private information is stored? Recording and documenting telerehabilitation visits? Delivering physiotherapy services in another Canadian province or territory using telerehabilitation? This episode is for you! Resources: Telerehabilitation Guide for Alberta Physiotherapists. College of Physiotherapists of Alberta. https://www.cpta.ab.ca/for-physiotherapists/resources/guides-and-guidelines/telerehabilitation-guide/ Links: Subscribe on Apple Podcasts Subscribe on Google Podcasts Subscribe on Spotify

Speakers:  Leanne Loranger and Jody Prohar In this episode Jody and Leanne update listeners about changes that are on the horizon regarding the legislation pertaining to restricted activities in Alberta and discuss continuing competence considerations for physiotherapists who perform restricted activities. August means practice permit renewal season, and one of the things that renewal always brings to mind is the issue of competence and continuing professional development. What should physiotherapists consider when it comes to competence development in the performance of a restricted activity? What about maintenance of competence in the performance of restricted activities? How does disuse of a clinical skill effect a physiotherapist’s ability to perform the skill safely? Restricted activities are ones that come with risk of harm if performed by a person lacking the necessary knowledge, skills and judgment to perform the activity safely and effectively. It is imperative that physiotherapists are intentional in their actions and take proactive steps to maintain their skills related to the restricted activities that they are authorized to perform.  Listen to the episode to learn more. Resources: Restricted Activities. College of Physiotherapists of Alberta. https://www.cpta.ab.ca/for-physiotherapists/regulatory-expectations/restricted-activities/   Links: Subscribe on Apple Podcasts Subscribe on Google Podcasts Subscribe on Spotify

Speakers:  Leanne Loranger, Jody Prohar, Moyra McAllister In this episode we discuss the legal requirement for mandatory reporting to the College, and the scenarios where this requirement is triggered. The College exists to protect the public. There are instances where an employer who is ending an employment relationship needs to make the College aware of performance concerns that may indicate that a physiotherapist is unable to meet the requirements of the Standards of Practice. There are also instances when a physiotherapist is required to report a criminal conviction or court finding of professional negligence. Failing to make a report when one is mandated by legislation can carry consequences. Do you know the situations where you are required to report an issue or legal matter to the College? Listen to this episode to learn more. Links: Subscribe on Apple Podcasts Subscribe on Google Podcasts Subscribe on Spotify

Speakers:  Leanne Loranger and Sean FitzGerald In this episode, Sean and Leanne talk about the provision of professional services process and rules that apply to private businesses seeking to offer physiotherapy services in Alberta. When physiotherapists work in private business settings that are owned by individuals who are not regulated health professionals there is a risk that the physiotherapist will not be able to meet the expectations established in the Standards of Practice. This risk arises because the physiotherapist may not have full control over the business practices of their employer, or because their employer may not fully understand the requirements of the College and our governing legislation. Where does the College get its authority to require businesses to apply for authorization to provide physiotherapy services? Who does this process apply to? Why did the College put these rules in place? What is the role and responsibilities of the Most Responsible Physiotherapist? Why do some business owners need to include their operating policies and procedures with their application? What does “Practice in Association” mean and why does it matter for physiotherapists thinking of opening a business in a shared location? Listen to this episode to learn the answers to these questions and more! Thinking of opening a new physiotherapy business? Start here. Resources: Provision of Professional Services. https://www.cpta.ab.ca/for-employers/provision-of-professional-services/ Links: Subscribe on Apple Podcasts Subscribe on Google Podcasts Subscribe on Spotify  

Speakers:  Leanne Loranger and Cheryl Blahut In this episode Cheryl and Leanne talk about records release to other parties and the common themes that come up when complaints or concerns come to the College regarding records release. How are concerns about records release addressed by the College? How long does the physiotherapist have to provide a copy of a chart once a request has been received? What fee can be charged for the chart copy? What does the physiotherapist need to include in a complete chart copy?   Even though the physical document is the property of the physiotherapist or physiotherapy business, the information contained in the patient record belongs to the patient. If the patient or someone acting on the patient’s behalf requests a copy of the record, the physiotherapist or physiotherapy business must provide it.   Check out this episode to learn more about common issues related to records release and how to avoid challenging situations.   Resources: Privacy Guide for Alberta Physiotherapists - https://www.cpta.ab.ca/for-physiotherapists/resources/guides-and-guidelines/privacy-guide/ Links: Subscribe on Apple Podcasts Subscribe on Google Podcasts Subscribe on Spotify

Speakers:  Leanne Loranger and Susan Paul In this episode Leanne speaks with Susan Paul of the College of Physical Therapists of British Columbia about trends seen among physiotherapists on social media. The episode starts with a discussion of the aspirational aspects of the Code of Ethical Conduct and who physiotherapists are called to be in all our professional interactions, including those that take place on social media. From there, Susan and Leanne go on to talk about core expectations established in the Standards of Practice, challenging scenarios that they have encountered in recent years, and key considerations related to professional communication on social media. Social media can be a powerful tool when used professionally to share credible information. Check out this episode to hear Leanne and Susan’s thoughts about how to be intentional in social media use to mitigate against the risks encountered when using these platforms. Resources: Professionalism in the Era of Social Media – Webinar presentation by Jason Kully; https://www.physiotherapyalberta.ca/xchange/continuing_professional_development/elearning_center/professionalism_in_the_era_of_social_media/?page=11 Physiotherapy Alberta - Social Media Resource Guide for Alberta Physiotherapists; https://www.physiotherapyalberta.ca/files/practice_guideline_social_media.pdf Links: Subscribe on Apple Podcasts Subscribe on Google Podcasts Subscribe on Spotify

Speakers: Leanne Loranger, Jody Prohar, and Joyce Vogelgesang In this episode Leanne, Jody and Joyce talk about Physiotherapy Alberta’s continuing competence program, providing an overview of the Do. Learn. Grow. program and an update about changes coming to continuing competence for physiotherapists in Alberta in 2022. We start with a discussion of legislation and the principles that underly the continuing competence program. Then, at the 2:52 minute mark we discuss the program components – the College-Selected and Self-Selected Activities - and what they involve. We go on to talk details about the Self-Selected Activity and cover some common questions starting at the 7:02 minute mark. We cover the program rules in greater detail at the 10:28 minute mark. If you are curious about the changes coming to the program in 2022, skip ahead to the 12:14 minute mark. Check out this episode to learn more! Resources: Draft Competence Standard - https://www.physiotherapyalberta.ca/files/continuing_competence_draft.pdf Competence Program Rules - https://www.physiotherapyalberta.ca/files/program_rules_draft.pdf Links: Subscribe on Apple Podcasts Subscribe on Google Podcasts Subscribe on Spotify

Speakers: Leanne Loranger and Sean FitzGerald In this episode Leanne is joined by Sean FitzGerald, Physiotherapy Alberta’s Practice Advisor, to discuss conflicts of interest and some real-life scenarios that physiotherapists encounter in practice on a regular basis. Leanne and Sean discuss common questions about conflicts of interest including: what is a conflict of interest; and why do physiotherapists need to avoid potential and perceived conflicts of interest? At the 4:30 mark they talk through a process to manage conflicts of interest. They also discuss common physiotherapy practice scenarios that pose a risk of conflict of interest, such as treating friends and family members, referring patients to other providers or from public healthcare settings to private practice settings, and incentive contracts. Check out this episode to learn more! Resources: Physiotherapy Alberta. Conflict of Interest Standard of Practice. https://www.physiotherapyalberta.ca/physiotherapists/what_you_need_to_know_to_practice_in_alberta/standards_of_practice/conflict_of_interest  Physiotherapy Alberta. Good Practice: Conflict of Interest and Incentive Contracts. Links: Subscribe on Apple Podcasts Subscribe on Google Podcasts Subscribe on Spotify

Speakers: Jody Prohar, Leanne Loranger It’s safe to say that 2022 will be a year of change for Physiotherapy Alberta. In this episode, Jody and Leanne discuss the Strategic Plan that was recently approved by Council and what that plan means in terms of the work Physiotherapy Alberta will focus on in the coming year. With the upcoming change in mandate, it was time to reflect on Physiotherapy Alberta’s mission, vision, and values and how we enact them in our work. In past episodes Jody and Leanne have discussed the activities that Physiotherapy Alberta is going to stop doing with the change to being a single mandate organization. With this episode we are focusing on what we are going to start doing and where Physiotherapy Alberta will focus its efforts in the future. Want to know where Physiotherapy Alberta is heading in 2022? Check out this episode to learn more! Resources: Physiotherapy Alberta. Strategic Plan 2021. https://www.physiotherapyalberta.ca/files/strat_plan_2021.pdf   Physiotherapy Alberta. Mandate Change (Response to Bill 46). https://www.physiotherapyalberta.ca/mandate_change_response_to_bill_46 Links: Subscribe on Apple Podcasts Subscribe on Google Podcasts Subscribe on Spotify

Speakers: Jody Prohar, Leanne Loranger Change is coming to Physiotherapy Alberta. In December 2020 the Health Statutes Amendment Act (No. 2) received Royal Assent. Among other things, this piece of legislation requires that regulatory colleges cease to function as professional associations and divest themselves of any association functions. In this episode, Jody and Leanne discuss the work that has already been done to address the requirements established by the Health Statutes Amendment Act and the changes to come in the months ahead. We highlight the ongoing work to define our regulatory activities in the future, our support of the formation of an association independent of Physiotherapy Alberta Council and Staff, and address some of the most common questions we have heard from physiotherapists regarding the upcoming changes. 2022 will be a busy and exciting year for physiotherapists and Physiotherapy Alberta. Check out this episode to hear more about what comes next.   Resources: Physiotherapy Alberta. Mandate Change (Response to Bill 46).https://www.physiotherapyalberta.ca/mandate_change_response_to_bill_46 Links: Subscribe on Apple Podcasts Subscribe on Google Podcasts Subscribe on Spotify

Speakers: Jody Prohar, Leanne Loranger In this episode we talk about how Physiotherapy Alberta approaches the questions regarding the scope of physiotherapypractice that we commonly receive from regulated physiotherapists, employers, and insurers. The “Is It Physiotherapy?” tool provides Physiotherapy Alberta with a consistent way to approach these questions. The five steps outlined in the tool take into consideration the issue or intervention in question, legislative considerations, training and competence of physiotherapists, the evolution of the profession,and the evidence related to the activity. Throughout the pandemic we have seen regulated membersredeployed to provide services physiotherapists don’t typically deliver, due to health system pressures. This episode came about in response to some of the questions we have received with regards to the activities physiotherapists have been asked to take on, and the rather unique legislative reality that arises due to the declaration of a Public Health Emergency under the Public Health Act. In the latter half of the episode, we discuss the application of the “Is It Physiotherapy?” tool in the context of a public health emergency like COVID-19. Resources: • Canadian Alliance of Physiotherapy Regulators. Is it Physiotherapy? Tool to Consider Emerging Practices.https://www.alliancept.org/wp-content/uploads/2020/11/Is_it_Physiotherapy_Tool_170405.pdf • Physiotherapy Alberta. Good Practice: Emerging Practices and Treatment.https://www.physiotherapyalberta.ca/physiotherapists/news/good_practice_emerging_practices_and_treatment   Links: Subscribe on Apple Podcasts Subscribe on Google Podcasts Subscribe on Spotify

Speakers: Jody Prohar, Leanne Loranger In this episode, Jody and Leanne discuss the profound effect that the spread of misinformation has had on the public’s trust of institutions and regulated health professionals alike. We talk about some of the statements issued by professional organizations and regulators during the pandemic about the expectations health professionals need to meet and the importance of avoiding spreading or amplifying misinformation. At about the 7-minute mark, we talk about the specific expectations for Alberta physiotherapists as outlined in the Code of Ethical Conduct and the Standards of Practice and how these expectations reinforce the importance of sharing credible, evidence-based messages.  What is the physiotherapist’s role in sharing public health messages, and how does that relate to the traditional scope of physiotherapy practice? What happens if a physiotherapist uses their professional title to add credibility to misinformation shared on social media or in other forums? Listen to this episode to find out. Resources: Federation of State Boards of Physical Therapy - Statement on Misinformation:  https://www.fsbpt.org/News-Events/News/articleType/ArticleView/articleId/151/Statement-on-Misinformation Government of Alberta - Statement from Minister Copping in Response to Anti-Vaccination Letter https://www.alberta.ca/release.cfm?xID=79899FED247BF-F1CD-D9EE-2844E2FB61EF117D  College of Physicians and Surgeons of Alberta – An Open Letter in Response to Vaccine Concerns and Misinformation https://cpsa.ca/news/an-open-letter-in-response-to-vaccine-concerns-and-misinformation/  Links: Subscribe on Apple Podcasts Subscribe on Google Podcasts Subscribe on Spotify

Speakers: Joyce Vogelgesang, Cheryl Blahut, Leanne Loranger With the September 30th deadline for practice permit renewal fast approaching, we are using this episode to answer the question – ‘What happens if I fail to renew my permit and practice when I’m not authorized?’ The Health Professions Act establishes the penalties that apply if someone claims or implies that they are a physiotherapist without being registered with Physiotherapy Alberta. Penalties may apply to people who falsely represent themselves as physiotherapists, and to people who have let their practice permit expire and continue to provide professional services. If a regulated member lets their permit expire, it is not a simple task to get their practice permit back, and there can be fines or other penalties that need to be addressed as part of the process of being reinstated. Physiotherapists need to know that if they let their permit expire, it results in a complaint which is not a minor thing. Listen to this episode to learn more about the consequences of letting your practice permit expire, then submit your renewal before it does! Resources: Physiotherapy Alberta. Annual Renewal. Available at: https://www.physiotherapyalberta.ca/physiotherapists/how_to_maintain_your_registration/annual_renewal Links: Subscribe on Apple Podcasts Subscribe on Google Podcasts Subscribe on Spotify

Speakers: Joyce Vogelgesang, Jody Prohar, Leanne Loranger August means that practice permit renewal season is upon us. Joyce Vogelgesang joins Jody and Leanne in this episode to discuss all things registration and renewal and our tips for making the renewal process run smoothly, including: Maintaining your member profile. Reporting criminal charges, convictions, and findings of unprofessional conduct as soon as reasonably possible. What to keep in mind if you are considering canceling your practice permit.   Physiotherapists can start working on their practice permit renewal in advance by: Making sure all their employment locations are indicated on their member profile. Calculating the hours worked at each practice location where they’ve worked in the past year. Finishing the practice improvement record for their self-selected competence activity now. Gathering the other documents they will need, such as their personal professional liability insurance.   No one likes paying late fees. Start the renewal process early to avoid them! Resources: Physiotherapy Alberta. Maintain Your Information. Available at https://www.physiotherapyalberta.ca/physiotherapists/what_you_need_to_know_to_practice_in_alberta/maintain_your_information Links: Subscribe on Apple Podcasts Subscribe on Google Podcasts Subscribe on Spotify

Speakers: Jody Prohar and Leanne Loranger It’s the second anniversary of College Conversations! This episode takes us back to the discussions of sexual abuse and sexual misconduct of patients by regulated health professionals, which were the spark that let to the creation of the podcast.   We begin the episode by reviewing key definitions related to changes to the Health Professions Act which were passed in late 2018. We go on to discuss the patient relations program that the College established in response to those legislative amendments. This includes the funding program created to provide financial support for treatment and counselling of patients, if a complaint is made respecting a physiotherapist that relates to sexual abuse of or sexual misconduct towards the patient by the physiotherapist. At the 9:03 mark we talk about changes made to mandatory education requirements for all new and recent applicants to the College. These changes are designed to ensure that all Alberta physiotherapists have a basic understanding of the legislation, key definitions, and why and how the Standard of Practice – Sexual Abuse and Sexual Misconduct and related guidance documents apply to their practice. Resources: Physiotherapy Alberta. Learn. Grow. Sexual Abuse and Sexual Misconduct – What Members Need to Know. https://www.physiotherapyalberta.ca/physiotherapists/how_to_maintain_your_registration/do._learn._grow._continuing_competence_program/college_selected_activity#2019_college_selected_activity Physiotherapy Alberta. College Conversations. Episode 1: When is a Patient a Patient?https://www.physiotherapyalberta.ca/xchange/continuing_professional_development/elearning_center/college_conversations_episode_1/?course_type%3Alist=Podcasts Physiotherapy Alberta. College Conversations. Episode 2: The Dirty Joke.https://www.physiotherapyalberta.ca/xchange/continuing_professional_development/elearning_center/college_conversations_episode_2/?course_type%3Alist=Podcasts&page=3 Physiotherapy Alberta. College Conversations. Episode 3: Sensitive Practice in Physiotherapy – A Primer. https://www.physiotherapyalberta.ca/xchange/continuing_professional_development/elearning_center/college_conversations_episode_3/?course_type%3Alist=Podcasts&page=4 Links: Subscribe on Apple Podcasts Subscribe on Google Podcasts Subscribe on Spotify

Speakers: Jody Prohar and Leanne Loranger In this episode, Jody and Leanne discuss the core activities of regulatory organizations, the costs of regulation and Council’s fiduciary duty. Council has a duty to act in the interest of meeting Physiotherapy Alberta’s mandate and to use the funds collected responsibly to fulfill core regulatory activities and our strategic plan. As a large, public organization, Physiotherapy Alberta’s financial situation is reported annually to government and other stakeholders, through our annual report. While no one wants to pay higher fees for registration with the College, many of the costs that the College faces are, if not fixed, not truly malleable either. We discuss how the College sets its annual budget, establishes fees for registration and renewal, and aligns spending with the strategic plan. We discuss some of the new costs the College has been faced with in recent years at 6:26 and touch on non-dues revenue generation and why that is not something Physiotherapy Alberta pursues at 8:45. At the 11:48 mark we discuss the reserve funds Physiotherapy Alberta reports in the annual report and what these funds are used for. Want to know where your fees go? Check out this episode! Resources: Physiotherapy Alberta. Annual Report. Available at https://www.physiotherapyalberta.ca/annual_report  Links: Subscribe on Apple Podcasts Subscribe on Google Podcasts Subscribe on Spotify

In this episode, Jody and Leanne discuss Physiotherapy Alberta’s recent Statement on discrimination, oppression and inequity, and our future plans as an organization.   We review how Physiotherapy Alberta initially began this work in response to the Calls to Action of the Truth and Reconciliation Commission and was at the point of starting to address those Calls to Action that apply to the work of health regulators when the COVID-19 pandemic hit. Then, as 2020 unfolded, we watched the protests that arose in response to George Floyd’s death, listened as people in Canada described the discrimination they encounter every day and realized a broader view was needed, one that considers how people’s experience of discrimination may vary based on their many identity factors.   We talk about Physiotherapy Alberta’s commitment to examining our internal processes and foundational documents from an anti-discrimination, anti-oppression lens. We also discuss our intent to share what we are learning with our registrants and with other health profession regulators, with an aim to affect positive change in the health system.   Resources: Physiotherapy Alberta’s Statement – Addressing Discrimination, Oppression, and Inequity in Physiotherapy https://www.physiotherapyalberta.ca/addressing_discrimination_oppression_and_inequity_in_physiotherapy Truth and Reconciliation Commission of Canada: Calls to Action http://nctr.ca/assets/reports/Calls_to_Action_English2.pdf Links: Subscribe on Apple Podcasts Subscribe on Google Podcasts Subscribe on Spotify

In this episode, Jody and Leanne are joined by Joyce Vogelgesang, Deputy Registrar and long-time staff member of Physiotherapy Alberta, to discuss the history of how we came to be both College and Association, some common misconceptions about our history and role, and our primary mandate to serve the public interest. We go on to discuss recent legislative changes that mandate that health profession regulatory organizations may not hold themselves out to be both College and Association and may not fulfill association-type roles as part of their work. This change reflects a trend in the world of regulation to require separation between organizations that serve the public interest and those that represent the interests of the profession. While the details of what this change will mean for Physiotherapy Alberta’s activities are still being reviewed, we know that in the future we will not operate as a dual mandate organization. Fortunately, the legislation provides for an 18-month transition period for the College to devolve itself of association functions. Links: Subscribe on Apple Podcasts Subscribe on Google Podcasts Subscribe on Spotify

In this episode, Jody and Leanne discuss what professionalism means and the expectations that arise as part of being a member of a self-regulating profession.   Professionalism is a topic of conversation that arises frequently within the physiotherapy profession. Organizations such as entry to practice education programs, accreditation organizations, and regulators all agree that professionalism matters, but defining what is or is not professional is challenging. We discuss how attitudes and beliefs about professionalism often stem from messages internalized long before a person entered the profession. Professionalism is also complicated by the fact that as society’s norms and expectations change, perspectives about what constitutes professional behaviour also change.   In some ways, it is easier to define what it means to be a member of a self-regulating profession. Jody and Leanne discuss what’s expected when an issue is brought to a physiotherapist’s attention, and what to do when a physiotherapist notices a peer isn’t meeting expectations. When do physiotherapists need to call on each other to meet expectations, and when is it appropriate to contact Physiotherapy Alberta about a fellow physiotherapist’s practices?   Resources: Code of Ethical Conduct: https://www.physiotherapyalberta.ca/physiotherapists/what_you_need_to_know_to_practice_in_alberta/code_of_ethical_conduct Standards of Practice: https://www.physiotherapyalberta.ca/physiotherapists/what_you_need_to_know_to_practice_in_alberta/standards_of_practice Links: Subscribe on Apple Podcasts Subscribe on Google Podcasts Subscribe on Spotify

Changes are coming to how Physiotherapy Alberta regulates the performance of pelvic health internal examinations by physiotherapists in Alberta. Although pelvic health internal examinations have always been a restricted activity, Physiotherapy Alberta is now transitioning to an authorization process for this activity that is similar to those used for authorizing the performance of spinal manipulation and the use of needles in practice.   In this episode we discuss the terminology Physiotherapy Alberta uses to describe this area of physiotherapy practice and what the plans to transition to individual authorization entail. We also address common questions from registrants, such as: What do these changes mean for physiotherapists currently working in this area of practice and wishing to continue to do so? How will these changes affect physiotherapist interns on the Provisional Register? What type of supervision is required for physiotherapist interns when they perform the restricted activity? What supervision is required for physiotherapists on the General Register who are in the process of learning how to perform internal examinations?   Legacy providers of these services should know that there are options open for them to apply for and obtain authorization to perform pelvic health internal examinations. We talk about that process in detail toward the end of the episode. Resources: Restricted Activities – Pelvic Health (Internal Examinations) https://www.physiotherapyalberta.ca/physiotherapists/what_you_need_to_know_to_practice_in_alberta/restricted_activities#pelvic_health_internal_examinations Good Practice: Pelvic Health Update https://www.physiotherapyalberta.ca/physiotherapists/news/good_practice_pelvic_health_update? Pelvic Health (Internal Examinations) Resource Guide https://www.physiotherapyalberta.ca/physiotherapists/resources_to_help_you_meet_practice_standards/pelvic_health_internal_examinations_resource_guide Links: Subscribe on Apple Podcasts Subscribe on Google Podcasts Subscribe on Spotify

From time to time, conflicts and challenging situations may arise between physiotherapists and their patients, which may lead the physiotherapist to consider declining to continue to provide services to the patient. These situations exist on a continuum from the slightly challenging to the potentially dangerous. Although there are circumstances where a physiotherapist may decide to discontinue treatment, when opting to decline services the physiotherapist also has several duties to fulfill.   In this episode, Jody and Leanne discuss the situations where it is or is not OK to decline services and the duties and obligations a physiotherapist must fulfill.   The onus is always on the physiotherapist to address conflicts appropriately, but how should we go about doing so? At the seven-minute mark we highlight a process for working through and addressing challenging situations and discuss key considerations, such as when it is important to involve a manager or clinic owner in a discussion with a patient.   When is it ok for a physiotherapist to decline services to a patient? Listen to this episode to find out.     Resources: https://www.physiotherapyalberta.ca/physiotherapists/resources_to_help_you_meet_practice_standards/managing_challenging_situations Links: Subscribe on Apple Podcasts Subscribe on Google Podcasts Subscribe on Spotify

Advertising is a challenging topic within physiotherapy regulation, due in part to the tension between the need to promote the services offered and the need to conduct ourselves professionally. In this episode Jody and Leanne talk about common advertising problems including the use of the title ‘doctor,’ comparative and superlative statements, and misleading advertising.    Along the way we talk about the need to avoid a race to the bottom when it comes to advertising, and the importance of making sure that the advertisements for your business are consistent with the Standards and Code of Ethical Conduct, even when (especially when) you hire advertising professionals for help.    The key point here is that physiotherapist advertisements promote a health professional’s services. The purpose is to inform members of the public about services that are available in their community, not to engage in unseemly aspects of advertising, such as bait and switch tactics, in order to get business in the door.     Resources: https://www.physiotherapyalberta.ca/physiotherapists/what_you_need_to_know_to_practice_in_alberta/standards_of_practice/advertising https://www.physiotherapyalberta.ca/physiotherapists/what_you_need_to_know_to_practice_in_alberta/code_of_ethical_conduct Links: Subscribe on Apple Podcasts Subscribe on Google Podcasts Subscribe on Spotify