2019 NEW GRADUATE KIT - Ontario Physiotherapy Association
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NEW GRADUATE KIT
2019
New Grad Kit 2019 / www.opa.on.ca 1
WELCOME TO THE PROFESSION! The Ontario Physiotherapy Association (OPA) in partnership with the Canadian Physiotherapy Association, is here to help you on your journey as a physiotherapist. We can assist you in successfully navigating the opportunities and challenges you encounter along the way. As a member of your Association you are part of the physiotherapy community in Ontario; a group of innovative and energetic health professionals who work together to advocate for the profession, for the health of Ontarians and for our communities. Together we achieve great things. OPA is here to help with each stage of your career. We asked students and new graduates to identify what would be important and useful to them as they began their professional practice. Their recommendations formed the basis of this New Graduate Kit. There are many reasons to be a member of the OPA: connection to your peers, the exclusive resources membership brings, the advocacy on behalf of the profession and Ontarians and opportunities to grow your career, knowledge, and skills. You are part of our community and opportunities to volunteer, promote the profession and provide critical input to strengthen our voice is all part of being a professional and a member. Your Association wishes you the best as you begin your journey as a physiotherapist! Allan Macdonald Dorianne Sauvé President CEO
NEW GRADUATE CHECK LIST
RENEW YOUR CPA/OPA MEMBERSHIP
R
enew your CPA/OPA membership in September by logging into your account through
www.physiotherapy.ca.
• In the “Account Centre”, follow instructions to change your membership category
to “New Grad” and receive a 50% discount on your first paying year as a member.
• A monthly payment option is available for a small fee. (not applicable to insurance
fees).
• CPA’s special interest and clinical practice Divisions promote networking and
engage in knowledge translation. Don’t forget to join the Divisions relevant to
your practice.
REGISTER TO PRACTICE
A
ll physiotherapists must register with the College in order to practice in the province.
Visit the College website collegept.org for detailed information about the registration
process.
ENSURE YOU HAVE PROFESSIONAL LIABILITY INSURANCE
All registered physiotherapists require Professional Liability Insurance to practice.
T
he CPA offers a Professional Liability Insurance program tailored specifically for PTs
through BMS Group. See next pages or go to cpa.bmsgroup.com.
he CPA insurance term starts October 1, but if you need insurance prior to this date
T
please follow instructions in your Account Centre.
GET TO KNOW YOUR ASSOCIATION
G
et in touch with your local OPA District! Refer to page 22 of this kit for contact
information to help develop your local PT network.
New Grad Kit 2019 / www.opa.on.ca 3
4 New Grad Kit 2019 / www.opa.on.ca
New Grad Kit 2019 / www.opa.on.ca 5
WHAT IS THE JOB
MARKET LIKE FOR
PHYSIOTHERAPISTS IN
ONTARIO?
There is an increasing demand for physiotherapy across
the province and in Canada due to changing population
demographics and evolving programming in rehabilitation and
primary care. Understanding how this demand translates into
actual human resource needs (i.e. number of PTs in a given
area) is not easily quantifiable. The supply and demand of
physiotherapists in Ontario and Canada is always changing and
is influenced by many factors.
Below are some key points from the The majority of these services has
Market Profile of Physiotherapists in been delivered in an urban area
Canada by the Conference Board of where population densities are higher
Canada (2017).1 and where approximately 95% of
physiotherapists in Ontario work.
The supply of physiotherapists has However, there is a need for PTs to fill
risen over the last decade as there are positions in rural and remote locations
approximately 20,130 physiotherapists within the province.
working in Canada, which has grown
3.8% each year since 2001. Only 0.3% To help recruit and retain
of physiotherapists are unemployed in physiotherapists practicing in these
Canada. remote/rural areas, there are Northern
Ontario grant programs available, such
More physiotherapists are now filling as the Rehabilitation Professionals
roles as community-based providers. Incentive Grant Program.3
The hospital sector still employs more
physiotherapists in Canada compared References
to clinics or independent practice. 1. Conference Board of Canada, 2017. Market
However, the gap between public and profile of Physiotherapists in Canada: https://
www.conferenceboard.ca/temp/64f211bb-
private in Ontario is closing with a ratio 2a43-4eaa-ba09-88611f1bdb24/8695_Profile-
of 41:432 (public to private practice of-Physiotherapists-in-Canada_BR.pdf
physiotherapists). 2. Conference Board of Canada, 2017. Market
profile of Physiotherapists in Canada: https://
The demand for physiotherapy www.conferenceboard.ca/temp/64f211bb-
treatment has been increasing across 2a43-4eaa-ba09-88611f1bdb24/8695_Profile-
Canada. In 2001, 2.16 million people of-Physiotherapists-in-Canada_BR.pdf
accessed physiotherapy services 3. h
ttp://www.health.gov.on.ca/en/pro/programs/
northernhealth/rehabilitation.aspx
compared to 3.49 million in 2014.
6 New Grad Kit 2019 / www.opa.on.ca
FINDING A JOB JOB POSTINGS The OPA and CPA websites list job opportunities in Ontario and throughout Canada: opa.on.ca/careers-in-physiotherapy/find-jobs/ www.physiotherapy.ca/About-Physiotherapy/ Career-Centre APPLYING Always include a cover letter with your CV. Highlight your key experiences, skills and attributes for each position to which you apply. It is helpful to keep a record of where and when you sent your CV. If you send your CV to the HR department of a hospital, send a copy to the hiring manager and the professional practice leader as well. The members’ side of the OPA website contains helpful information on preparing your CV and interview tips. Visit the Career Resources page opa.on.ca/membership/ career-resources/ under the Member Resources tab to find this information. Don’t forget to highlight on your CV that you are a member of the CPA and OPA. Being a member shows you are committed to excellence in professionalism, building community and providing quality care.
GETTING AN INTERVIEW
UPDATE YOUR SOCIAL MEDIA “Right in front of me was a huge
PROFILES opportunity to connect with
Update your LinkedIn profile and review your social professionals from all over the
media presence to ensure they reflect a professional
profile. Employers may check you out on social media world, widely disseminate my
before they decide to offer you an interview.
work, and also share knowledge
between like-minded peers”. 1
— Darren Brown, PT
“I’ve found it extremely powerful
for idea generation, knowledge
sharing, and networking.
Search to find a few profiles/
pages/groups from people
that are sharing interesting
NETWORKING ONLINE information, follow them, then
As you begin job hunting, don’t forget about the people
also see who they follow. There
in your network. Reach out to people you already know are great pages, people, and
who have first-hand experience working with you.
Social media is another strategy to strengthen your
groups sharing some great
professional network. It can be the key to finding your information”.
2
next job or career opportunity. Here is what your fellow
physiotherapists have to say about their experience — Scotty Butcher, PT
networking online:
8 New Grad Kit 2019 / www.opa.on.ca
INTERVIEW TIPS
Regardless of the setting, wear professional attire.
M
ake sure you’ve done research on the employer/organization; select employer/
organizations that align with your own values.
F
ind out who will be on your interview panel and do some background research on
each panelist.
I nterviews often contain scenarios of clinical situations. Practice scenarios before
the interview.
B
ring a copy of your cover letter, CV and references. Give your references notice
about the specific position for which you are interviewing and inform them that they
might be contacted.
H
ave a few key general questions to ask at the end of the interview to show your
interest in the position:
• How would you describe the working environment?
• What do you like most about working here?
• How is mentorship provided within the organization?
• Are there internal professional development opportunities? Is there financial
support for these?
• Whatever else is important to you!
F
or private practice/clinic-based interviews, make sure prospective employers are
aware of your standards of practice and obligations for meeting those standards
especially when it comes to billing practices.
Ask questions like:
• What is the process for you to be able to review financial records where your
registration number is being used?
• Has the clinic/company taken any steps to help protect employees and/or
patients from fraudulent billing?
Did you know that CPA has additional resources for new grads?
Check them out at physiotherapy.ca/im-graduating-now-what.
References
1. https://physiotherapy.ca/blog/darren-brown-pt
2. https://physiotherapy.ca/blog/scotty-butcher
CHOOSING YOUR
EMPLOYMENT STATUS
SELF-EMPLOYED OR EMPLOYEE
Deciding whether you want to be self-employed (independent contractor) or an employee
is an important step as you start looking for a position. There are advantages and
disadvantages to both. Knowing yourself, what you want and what is important to you with
respect to work/life balance will help you understand your options. Use the tips below and
the two tables on the next pages to understand the difference. The CPA also has additional
information about self-employment versus being an employee:
physiotherapy.ca/independent-contractors.
It is not uncommon for a PT to be hired as an independent contractor but then find within
the contract/agreement and/or as they start to practice at a clinic, that they are actually
receiving benefits like their employee colleagues or friends. Don’t confuse the employment
relationship! Don’t let the Canada Revenue Agency be the ones to tell you that you are not
an independent contractor. Know the difference and maintain the distinction.
I f you are accepting a position as an employee, make yourself aware of the employer’s
expectations and your rights as an employee. For example: Notice of termination,
vacation and sickness pay, remuneration, meal breaks, overtime, maternity leaves,
holidays, emergency leaves, severance, etc.
I f you are a independent contractor, maintain an individual business profile. This includes
marketing yourself, having a separate office, providing invoices to the payer, and not
attending staff functions.
C
ontractors must either provide their own tools and workspace or pay the owner for
rental and lease of what is provided. This should be a flat, monthly fee separate from
work pay.
E
ducation allowances can only be offered to employees and not contractors. If one is
offered to you as a new employee, ask how it may used, if there is an expiration date, and
how it is applied (i.e. does the clinic owner pay for the course or will you be reimbursed).
E
mployees should be aware of any probationary periods and what benefits they are
entitled to during that time or at which point they come into effect.TABLE 1
Determining Self-Employed versus Employee
EXCERPTS FROM THE CANADA REVENUE AGENCY
2008 RC 4110 Employee or Self-Employed? Canadian Physiotherapy Assocation
Guidelines for all provinces except for Quebec interpretation to physiotherapy
CRA FACTORS EMPLOYEE SELF-EMPLOYED INTERPRETATION TO PHYSIOTHERAPY
FOR
EMPLOYMENT
STATUS
STEP 1
Intention of working Contract of service Contract for services (CFS) Two parties may have different understanding of what this means. The intention must be clear
relationship (COS) to all involved. The chosen status must be reflected in the actual working conditions as well as
written in the contract. As an owner, there must be a difference in the ways self-employed
physiotherapists and your employees are managed.
STEP 2
Degree of control -Subordination -Works independently Self-employed physiotherapists must have entire control over their work. The clinic owner can
-Results & Methods -No supervision not insist on treatment of a certain number of patients, or in a certain manner.
of Work -May work for different payers at
-Method & Amount same time Self- employed physiotherapists may work at various clinics simultaneously even if the clinics
of Pay -Free to work when and for are in close proximity. If both parties agree, a non-competition clause can be included, but it is
-Requires whom often not enforced by the courts. The courts hold that a non-solicitation clause is sufficient to
permission to work -Able accept or refuse work from protect the owner.
for others at same payer
time -Does not present a degree of Owners should also not conduct performance appraisals
-Assigned jobs loyalty, security, subordination,
-Receives training & or integration Self-employed physiotherapists may not access the clinic’s benefits such as healthcare/dental,
direction from payer courses/training, business cards, voicemail, etc.
-Payer has final
word Bonuses are also more indicative of a COS relationship.
Tools and -Payer supplies -Provides tools and equipment Self-employed physiotherapists must own their own tools OR to have a rental/lease agreement
Equipment tools and equipment -Worker retains right of use for the use of the clinic’s equipment and tools as well as for the physical workspace at the clinic.
-Responsible for -Supplies own workspace and When agreeing to rent or lease the clinic’s property, have a detailed list of what you have the
repair, maintenance, maintenance of space and tools right to access in the appendix of a contract. This MUST be a flat rate fee paid regardless of
insurance the amount of patients seen. It is recommended that the payer invoice the physiotherapist
-Reimburses worker monthly and that the physiotherapist issues a check to the payer for the expense, as this
if they supply tools illustrates independence. The fee should be a reasonable amount - not too low to be considered
-Payer retains right non-existent and should include all applicable taxes.
of use
Subcontracting Worker must May hire another person to A self-employed physiotherapist may subcontract another person, such as a PTA, to perform
Work and Hiring perform the perform the work without the the tasks.
Assistants assigned tasks payer interfering.
personally
Financial Risk -Payer responsible -Pays hired helpers Self-employed physiotherapists must demonstrate financial risk. One area of demonstrated risk
for operating costs -Incurs expenses related to own is payment of fixed monthly expenses whether on not work is done, as there could be an
-Working workspace incurred loss. Not seeing the same amount of patients each month is not considered financial
relationship is -Hired for a specific job and not loss/risk.
continuous ongoing work
-Worker is not liable -Financially liable if contract if
if contract is not not fulfilled
fulfilled -Receives no benefits or
-Payer determines protection from payer
method and amount -Responsible for advertising
of pay their services and actively
markets him/her-self
Responsibility for -Normally, worker -Worker has capital investment A self-employed physiotherapist has made a capital investment by using money to buy fixed
investment and has no capital or -Worker manages their staff assets such as office space and equipment. To establish a business presence, a
management limited capital -Worker has established physiotherapist would have to market themselves and separate their worth from the clinic’s
investment business presence business. This is the rationale behind supplying your own business cards, phone number, and
-Worker has no advertisements.
business presence
Opportunity for profit -Worker does not -Worker can hire substitutes Self-employed physiotherapists cannot receive benefits such as registered pension plans,
have profit or loss -Worker is compensated by a health & dental plans, or disability insurance from the payer. The chance to experience profit or
-Worker is entitled to flat fee and incurs expenses loss is from the perspective of the worker and not the payer. A self-employed physiotherapist
benefit plans can have a profit or loss due to their autonomy in accepting work, negotiating prices for the job,
working in multiple clinics, and carrying expenses for having their business (ex. Equipment,
tools, workspace).
© Canadian Physiotherapy Association, July 2010. All rights reserved. Page 7 of 8
New Grad Kit 2019 / www.opa.on.ca 11TABLE 2
CHECKLIST OF MAIN CHARACTERISTICS FOR EMPLOYEE AND SELF-
EMPLOYED PHYSIOTHERAPISTS
Note: If you are self-employed, there should be no boxes checked in the left column.
CHECK IF Employee physiotherapist CHECK IF Self-employed physiotherapist
APPLICABLE APPLICABLE
Performing the same functions as other Individual has own business incorporated
employees
Written agreement defines the relationship as an Written agreement defines the working
employee-employer status relationship as two independent contractors and
an analysis of the at factual working relationship
supports the status
Works for the business on a regular or frequent Individual business advertising
basis
Business provides training options to the Individual business has own business cards
individual
Worker does not control what it to be done Individual business has a separate telephone
listing
Worker does not control when the work is to be Individual is listed in business directories
done, hours of work, days of work, etc
Worker does not control manner or method in Maintains own outside office space
which the work is performed
Regular assessment of the work performance Hires own employees
Works in the business premises Free to supply similar services to other
businesses
Individual has office or other designated Can provide a substitute to perform the work
workspace at business
Employees perform work that is the same or Has own tools and equipment
similar to the services supplied
Provides a service which is integrated in the Individual charged for use of business equipment
overall business or office space with a flat rate fee
Includes the worker in plans (pay equity etc.) Compensation is based on a task or project
Participates in the employee benefits plan, etc. Services billed by invoice
Record of Employment issued when terminated Paid on separate days from employees
Contributes to pension plans, etc. May work on statutory holidays
Worker’s time recorded by the business Contract can be terminated as per the contract
Paid on the same pay days as employees Has own insurance registration
Receives vacations and/or vacation pay Charges and pays GST/HST where appropriate
Paid for statutory holidays not worked Is not invited to staff functions or parties.
Paid overtime
Deductions, premiums and remittances made for
income tax, employment insurance, CPP, WSIB,
employer health tax, etc.
Expenses reimbursed by the business
Work is closely monitored
Disciplines the individual
© CanadianNew
Physiotherapy
Grad Kit Association, July 2010. All rights reserved. Page 8 of 8
12 2019 / www.opa.on.caEMPLOYMENT STANDARDS
ACT AND PHYSIOTHERAPY
It is important to be aware of the Employment Standards Act (ESA) and how it may,
or may not apply to you and your workplace agreement. For example, under the ESA,
most professionals regulated at the time the legislation was initially passed, including
physiotherapists, are exempt from various sections within the statute. The reasoning at
the time related to the multiple work settings for professionals, their ability to negotiate
their work circumstances and the imminence of the regulatory colleges in setting standards
related to their work. The sections under exemption include hours of work, overtime,
minimum wage, vacation and pay.
Physiotherapists who are employees and are part of a union may have some of these
exemption areas addressed as part of their collective agreements. Physiotherapists who
are independent contractors are not covered under the ESA as the ESA does not apply. If
you are an employee, it may be a good idea to discuss these areas of exemptions with your
employer to ensure they are accounted for in some other form of an agreement, contract or
organizational policy.
Please note that the above information does not constitute legal advice. If you have
questions regarding employment contracts, you are encouraged to contact an employment
lawyer to assist you in making informed decisions.
To learn more about Employment Standards and/or the ESA, please visit the Ontario
Ministry of Labour website at www.labour.gov.on.ca/english/es/.
New Grad Kit 2019 / www.opa.on.ca 13BEFORE YOU ACCEPT AN OFFER
There is a lot to consider before you accept a job offer. clinic revenue. The payment structure will often depend
Use the information below to help you decide about an on your employment status. For example, independent
offer. contractors do not get an annual salary but are often paid
on a per-patient or per-hour basis.
LETTER OF OFFER/CONTRACTS You can also research the market in your area for
physiotherapists with your qualifications and evaluate
their worth to employers. Consider also:
Offer letters/contracts will look different depending
on the organization/practice setting and employment A
re there bonuses or incentives included in your
status. However, core elements such as the position/role, contract?
salary, benefits, probation, termination, and performance
management should be addressed in all agreements. Are you paid if your client cancels?
R
ead the letter/contract carefully to ensure it is the If your employer does not remove income tax, you may
same information as discussed in your interview. end up paying $10,000- $20,000 at the end of the year
in income tax. Consider paying in instalments. Find an
I f the information is different, do not sign until accountant who works with health care professionals to
you have addressed any discrepancies. If there is help you.
something you don’t understand, ask for clarification.
Consider having a lawyer review the letter/contract. MORE THAN MONEY
I f this is a unionized position, you should ask for a Compensation is not just about how much you get paid
copy of the collective agreement. so know what will be included in your compensation.
Compensation packages that include benefits, paid
I f you are being offered a benefits package, ask for a vacation etc. are more common in full-time positions
copy to review. rather than part-time positions and are not available to
independent contractors.
Always keep a copy of anything that you have signed.
PROBATION PERIOD Learn more about compensation
It is not uncommon to be on probation for the first
on page 16!
three months in your new position. Be familiar with the
conditions of the probation period.
COMPENSATION BENEFITS
Compensation for your new position will depend Are benefits included in your salary or do you receive a
on many factors like what sector you are working in percentage “in lieu” of benefits?
and whether you are working as an employee or an
You should investigate whether or not a private health
independent contractor.
insurance plan may be a better option for you. Often
contract employees in private practice do not receive
HOW MUCH WILL I GET PAID? benefits. This can also be the case for contract positions
in hospitals as well.
There are many ways your income might be determined
including hourly wage, annual salary, or percentage of
14 New Grad Kit 2019 / www.opa.on.caMEDICAL INSURANCE VACATION
What’s covered? How many weeks per year do you get?
Medications? C
ommon vacation allowance is usually 2-4 weeks
per year, but you will need to confirm, and potentially
Private rooms? negotiate this.
Dental? Is it paid vacation?
Physiotherapy? When can you start taking vacation?
Does your benefit package include a health spending O
ften you accrue your vacation with each pay period
account or allowance? so it may be a few months.
C
hoice in vacation time may be based on seniority. As
LONG TERM DISABILITY a new staff person, you may not get your first pick of
holidays.
What’s covered and how much coverage do you receive I f you have already planned a post-graduation
and over what period of time? celebratory holiday that may impact your start date,
Y
ou will only be covered for the length of your be honest with your employer and let them know this
employment. If you work at a clinic and a hospital you before you finalize the letter of offer/contract.
would need coverage from two different long-term
disability plans.
RETIREMENT SAVINGS PLAN
SICK LEAVE Does your employer offer a pension plan?
S
ome employers are part of pension plan programs
Do you have a certain number of paid sick days per year? in which both the employee and the employer make
contributions (e.g. HOOPP). Others may offer a
percentage of your annual salary to be used towards
EXPENSES a retirement savings plan of your choosing (e.g.
RRSPs).
D
oes the employer support continuing professional
development?
PERFORMANCE APPRAISAL
Do you have paid educational leave days?
I s there an education fund that you can apply to when Usually an employer conducts a performance appraisal
taking courses, or does the organization pay for you after your probation period. You need to know
to attend? what the appraisal is based on, who will conduct it
and how often you will have additional appraisals.
W
ill you be reimbursed for technology used as part of Performance appraisals are often tied to changes to your
your practice? compensation.
D
oes the organization pay your association and/or Did you know, the College of Physiotherapists of Ontario
college dues? has additional information for new grads to consider
before accepting an offer. Check out their checklist:
www.collegept.org/starting-a-new-job.
New Grad Kit 2019 / www.opa.on.ca 15COMPENSATION
SURVEY 2018
As you start to apply for physiotherapist positions, knowing what average salaries
are for entry level positions and what benefits are common is helpful to manage your
expectations while you engage in negotiations with respect to compensation with
potential employers. In 2018, OPA surveyed members to evaluate compensation
across all practice settings in Ontario. The full results are available on the OPA website
and contain additional detailed information regarding physiotherapists in each sector,
including what geographical areas they are from, their employment status (e.g. full time/
part time), and other compensation information (e.g. paid vacation, health insurance
etc.).
The following indicates the most commonly earned salary by sector for the subset of
respondents practicing five years or less based on a 1.0 full time equivalent (FTE):
Hospital:
• Equal number of respondents reported earning between $60,000-$69,999 and
between $70,000-$79,999
Private Practice:
• Most common response for this subset reported earning between $60,000-
$69,999
Primary Care:
• Most common response in our subset reported earning between $70,000-
$79,999
D
ue to a low response rate for long-term care and home care, please see the full
report for compensation information.
To find out more about the compensation of physiotherapists in all sectors, refer to the
sector specific compensation reports on the OPA website here:
opa.on.ca/membership/business-and-personal-resources/.
16 New Grad Kit 2019 / www.opa.on.caPROFESSIONAL DEVELOPMENT Professional development is an important part of being a physiotherapist. It is not only a requirement of the College, but also how you grow your career and ensure that you are providing the highest quality care for patients. There are some financial resources such as OPA District bursary funds, and the Allied Health Professional Development Fund www.ahpdf.ca/ available to help support you in your continuing education. OPA COURSES Your OPA membership provides you with discounted rates for professional development opportunities offered by the Association. WOUND CARE MANAGEMENT PROGRAM OPA offers wound care management courses in partnership with the Canadian Physical Therapy Wound Care Collaborative designed for PTs wishing to pursue a practice in wound care management. It is also open to other healthcare professionals and students interested in expanding their knowledge base in wound care management. The Introduction to Wound Care Management is an e-learning module; 10 hours of custom online content that is self-paced. It focuses on current interventions practiced by physiotherapists that are known to address underlying causes of common types of chronic wounds (pressure ulcers, diabetic foot wounds, and venous leg ulcers). The module is designed to assist PTs in making an important contribution to wound care teams across healthcare settings and improve wound healing outcomes. In-person workshops that allow you to develop your hands-on skills and techniques including the use of electrophysical agents are also available at different times throughout the year. Check out the OPA website for more information and sign up to find out when the next in-person course is offered at opa.on.ca/professional-development/wound-care/.
PROMOTING YOUR PROFESSION
OPA promotes the profession to the public in NATIONAL PHYSIOTHERAPY
a year round digital campaign. Since 2016 the
#PhysioHelpsLives campaign has reached millions MONTH
of Ontarians through Facebook, Twitter, Google and
YouTube ads and posts. Every May, for National Physiotherapy Month,
physiotherapists, physiotherapist assistants and students
Anyone can join the campaign by sharing the messages
promote physiotherapy to the public by hosting events
on Facebook, sharing videos on YouTube and following
across the country.
us on Twitter. You can also broadcast the videos in your
workplace, community and clinic. OPA has promotional materials to help you engage with
Ontarians about physiotherapy including presentations,
Be sure to check out the campaign website
brochures and giveaways. All promotional items are
discoverphysiotherapy.ca where you can find additional
complimentary, although quantities are limited.
resources for your patients.
Login to OPA’s website and order items for your next
promotional event through our Store.
THIS IS MY PAIN FACE
Treat the pain you face
with physiotherapy.
Kitchener-Waterloo (KW) District President Sarah Luxon
(R) with KW District Secretary Amy VanSchyndel (L) at MS
WalkJOIN OPA’S NEW TO
PRACTICE GROUP (N2P)
Ignitephysio.ca is an online platform that connects
physiotherapists across the country. Take advantage of the
many resources to help you in your practice and life, or ask
a question of your peers.
OPA hosts a special private group on ignitephysio for new grads! The New to Practice
community of practice (N2P) is dedicated to supporting OPA members who have been
practicing less than five years, who are new to practicing in Canada or who are in their
final year of study in their program. Members of this group have access to:
Networking opportunities
Specific new to practice content that will help progress
their career
Clinical leaders and practice experts
Group mentoring on topics that matter most to them
For more information on the N2P community, including
how to join, visit opa.on.ca/professional-development/
opa-practice-communities/.GET INVOLVED
OPA’S VOLUNTEER PROGRAM
Member volunteers are essential to the work and vision of the Ontario Physiotherapy
Association. They provide their experience, expertise and passion to support and
strengthen the Association and the profession. At all levels of involvement, internal or
external to OPA, member volunteers are vital to achieving the goals of the Association.
Recognizing volunteers as an invaluable resource, OPA’s leadership and staff are
committed to providing volunteers with ongoing support to ensure that they are
confident and successful in their roles. OPA members have access to meaningful
volunteer opportunities and resources that help them, not only throughout their
volunteer involvement with the Association, but in their continued growth and
development as leaders within the profession.
VOLUNTEER IN YOUR COMMUNITY
The Association is approached by organizations who are looking for a physiotherapist or
physiotherapist assistant to be actively involved in their event. These opportunities may
include wellness fairs, school fairs, and presentations to high school students.
OPA exhibits at a variety of conferences throughout the year and looks for member
participation to help educate delegates about the Association and physiotherapy. Keep
an eye out for member e-mails and check out the Volunteer Resources page on the OPA
website for these opportunities.
To learn more, or to join the OPA volunteer program, please contact Maryam Ahmed at
mahmed@opa.on.ca.
JOIN A COMMITTEE!
Seven OPA committees provide vital links between members, the OPA Board of
Directors and the Association as a whole. All committees receive staff support and
report directly to the Board of Directors. The seven committees are:
Governance
Finance
Awards
Education
Home Care Advisory Committee (HCAC)
Hospital Advisory Committee (HAC)
Primary Care Advisory Committee (PCAC)
Joining an advisory committee is a great way to be a leader within the physiotherapy
community and contribute to the work of your Association. It will also help you be more
informed about current and future changes within the health system.
To learn more, or to join an OPA committee, please contact Sarah Grace Bebenek at
sgbebenek@opa.on.ca.
20 New Grad Kit 2019 / www.opa.on.caADVOCACY AND LEADERSHIP
Did you know that leadership is one of the seven domains HOW YOU CAN GET INVOLVED
within the National Physiotherapy Advisory Group
(NPAG) Competency Profile for Physiotherapists in
Canada?1 Competencies for physiotherapists that are G
et Inspired- access the series of short videos from
defined within the leadership domain include: the Leadership Project and learn from leaders within
the profession about how to advocate with and
1. Championing the health needs of clients through the Ontario Physiotherapy Association
2. Promoting innovation in health care and B
ecome familiar with OPA’s key advocacy messages
and start having the conversations that count:
3. Contributing to leadership in the profession
1.Increase access to physiotherapy services in the
How do you demonstrate leadership? By being an
community
advocate for your patient, for the health system and for
your profession! 2. Remove barriers to access timely care by
implementing the full scope of practice for
The Ontario Physiotherapy Association has a number
physiotherapists
of resources to support you to develop your skills in
advocacy. In the remaining four years of the strategic Learn more about our key advocacy initiatives and where
plan, we will continue to build our community of we stand on important issues at
physiotherapy advocates. opa.on.ca/advocacy-positions/messaging/.
Reference
1. NPAG Competency Profile for Physiotherapists in Canada (2017).
https://physiotherapy.ca/sites/default/files/competency_profile_
final_en_0.pdf. Accessed June 2018
Check out the Leadership Project videos and access resources to improve your leadership skills
at opa.on.ca/membership/leadership-project.DISTRICTS
OPA has16 geographical districts which are critical to ensuring the Association has a broad base of support,
and that members can bring the unique perspective of local health issues and professional matters to the
provincial level. Each district has a District President/liaison and a District executive who are responsible
for planning events and providing additional feedback and input to the OPA Board and staff. Being active in
your District provides you with a great opportunity to network with your peers and be a part of a larger PT
community. Often, Districts organize courses that can help you grow your career.
CONNECT TO YOUR DISTRICT
Find your District online at Check your bi-weekly OPA Updates
opa.on.ca/about-the-ontario- and District emails to find out what’s
physiotherapy-association/ going on in your region.
districts/.
22 New Grad Kit 2019 / www.opa.on.caYOUR ASSOCIATION
The Ontario Physiotherapy Association (OPA) is a non-profit organization
whose members are physiotherapists, physiotherapist assistants and students
living and/or working in Ontario. Our mission is to provide leadership, support
and advocacy for members so that Ontarians can access quality physiotherapy
services when and where they need it. With more than 5,800 members across
the province we are a strong voice for the profession and the largest provincial
branch of the Canadian Physiotherapy Association.
Over the next four years, OPA will be working on achieving a number of outcomes related to our ultimate goal that all
Ontarians have access to physiotherapy as an essential element of optimal health.
OUR THREE KEY PRIORITIES ARE:
Mobilize and equip Build capacity and Raise awareness and
members as change agents knowledge for practice advocate for policy and
in every District/LHIN/Sub- innovation and excellence infrastructure change for
region health and well-being of
Ontarians
How will we achieve these priorities? We will be:
S
upporting member advocates by providing education, resources and tools and
engagement opportunities
P
artnering with key stakeholders including patients and families on advocacy
initiatives related to health system transformation
P
romoting, supporting, and where possible, championing research for data-driven
policy and practice
Building on the value of membership and the Association as a whole
Learn more about what OPA achieved last year by viewing the 2018 OPA Annual
report opa.on.ca/about-the-ontario-physiotherapy-association/annual-reports/.
New Grad Kit 2019 / www.opa.on.ca 23HIGHLIGHTING THE CONVERSATIONS THAT COUNTED IN 2018
2018 PROVINCIAL ELECTION: P
rovided input on a number of Health Quality Ontario
quality standards that impact PT practice
OPA developed tools and resources for members to
engage on issues impacting physiotherapy in the election. C
ollaborated with CPA and Sports Physiotherapy
Over 66 members reported engaging in activities, many of Canada to respond to the Rowan’s Law consultation
them directly sharing OPA key messages regarding access where we advocated for the inclusion of
to physiotherapy and scope of practice with their MPP. physiotherapists in the list of providers who assess
and manage concussion and safe return to sport
recommendations
BOARD OUTREACH:
OPA’s leadership in advocacy has led to greater
The Board of Directors went on the road for 12
opportunities for the profession and for new grads,
outreach events at district meetings and at other
such as yourself. We look forward to your continued
stakeholder meetings around Ontario. Members and
membership and welcome you to join us in support of our
stakeholders were engaged in critical conversations about
mission, vision and values.
opportunities to mobilize and amplify the PT voice within
their communities. Learn more about our advocacy and positioning at
opa.on.ca/advocacy-positions/where-we-stand/.
OPA:
M
et with the Ministry of Health and Long-Term Care
to address implementation issues related to the
Bundled Funding Model for Hip/Knee replacement
surgery
ALLAN PAULETTE ALISON BONNYMAN ALANNA AUGRUSO COURTNEY BEAN
MACDONALD GARDINER MILLAR Secretary
President President-Elect
OREN CHEIFETZ JASDEEP DHIR SHELLEY HUFFMAN JACQUIE LEVY
OPA Board of Directors 2019-2020
24 New Grad Kit 2019 / www.opa.on.caYOUR MEMBERSHIP DUES
AT WORK
One membership fee gets you membership to both CPA and OPA.
Getting value for your investment in being a member is important. Your dues go a long way in helping you succeed in
your career and growing the profession in Ontario and across Canada.
Beyond the benefits and resources that you access as a member, choosing to join your Association makes a difference.
With over 5,800 members in Ontario and growing each member contributes to activities to advocate for and promote
the profession. We are stronger together.
Below are just a few of the ways that your membership is working for you:
Career Support Discounts on
Member Benefits including
including resources continuing
group insurance rates for
on employment professional
health, home, auto, and
contracts, running a education
professional liability through
business, new roles opportunities, annual
CPA
for physiotherapists, conferences and the
and how to navigate chance to join one of
funding systems and 13 special interest
regulations Divisions
Newsletter of the Ontario Physiotherapy Association
PHYSIOTHERAPY Exclusive access
TODAY to critical
information
through your
member
Annual Meeting Package newsletters and
The Weekend Discharge Team
Connecting Primary Healthcare Physiotherapists in
Ontario
email updates Year-round marketing campaign
Winter 2019/ Issue #163
Online member-only resources at targeted to Ontarians to choose
opa.on.ca and physiotherapy.ca physiotherapy
Advocacy campaigns to Promotion of Networking and education
increase access to full scope of the profession opportunities in your community
physiotherapy through through one of 16 local Districts
representation of the OPA
at health related
conferences
and other major
events
New Grad Kit 2019 / www.opa.on.ca 25STAY IN TOUCH
OPA keeps you informed in many ways. Be sure you OPT-IN to receive Branch
communications when renewing with CPA.
Newsletter of the Ontario Physiotherapy Association
PHYSIOTHERAPY PHYSIOTHERAPY TODAY
TODAY OPA UPDATES
OPA’s quarterly member print
Bi-weekly emails with OPA
newsletter
News and District Updates
Got an idea for an article for sent to all members
the physiotherapy community?
InterACTION 2019
Bridging Clinical Practice - A Transformative Journey
Contact Sara Pulins at spulins@
opa.on.ca.
Physiotherapists - Local Community Health Leaders in
Burlington
Spring 2019/ Issue #164
JOBS & CLASSIFIEDS WEBSITE
Monthly emails listing jobs and opa.on.ca
classifieds across the province.
Also listed on OPA’s website. Fully mobile and
accessible! Log
into the OPA
UPCOMING COURSES website with your
Monthly emails listing CPA credentials
professional development and access
across the province. Also listed content just for
on OPA’s website. members.
SOCIAL MEDIA
videos to inspire you in your new career and share the value of
physiotherapy with your patients. YouTube - Ontario Physiotherapy
Association
Check out posts to journal articles and other health information research in a quick
and easy format. Facebook - facebook.com/OntarioPT
OPA tweets Association news and events, volunteer activities and more.
Twitter - @ONTPhysio
Stay in touch with your Association’s news and get connected to fellow
physiotherapists online. LinkedIN - Ontario Physiotherapy Association
26 New Grad Kit 2019 / www.opa.on.caOPA STAFF
EXECUTIVE OFFICE
Dorianne Sauvé, Maryam Ahmed,
Chief Executive Officer Coordinator, Member
dsauve@opa.on.ca Services and Programs
Dorianne is responsible for mahmed@opa.on.ca
strategic leadership and Contact Maryam if you are
Association operations. interested in volunteering
with OPA and with any
questions about OPA
professional development.
Diane Unção, Corporate
Manager & CEO Assistant
dianeu@opa.on.ca
MARKETING & COMMUNICATIONS
Contact Diane for any Sara Pulins, Manager,
administrative, accounting Marketing and
needs or OPA advertising Communications
opportunities. spulins@opa.on.ca
Contact Sara to submit an
article for publication in
OPA’s member newsletter,
Physiotherapy Today and to
add your clinic to OPA’s Find a
PRACTICE, POLICY & MEMBER Physiotherapist.
SERVICES
Amanda Smart, Director,
Practice, Policy & Member Becky MacDonald, Project
Services Coordinator, Marketing
amanda.smart@opa.on.ca and Communications
rmacdonald@opa.on.ca
Contact Amanda with any
practice, health policy or Contact Becky to advertise
business questions and any courses, jobs or classifieds
resource needs. listings on our website/
iblast and with district
communications questions.
Sarah Grace Bebenek,
Policy Analyst
sgbebenek@opa.on.ca
Contact Sarah Grace if you
are interested in joining
an OPA committee, or for
resources and questions
related to health policy.
New Grad Kit 2019 / www.opa.on.ca 27CONTACT INFORMATION
Ontario Physiotherapy Association Watch our videos on YouTube at
55 Eglinton Avenue East, Suite 210 Ontario Physiotherapy Association
Toronto ON M4P 1G8
Find us on Facebook at
414-322-6866 / 800-672-9668 facebook.com/OntarioPT
physiomail@opa.on.ca
Follow us on Twitter @ONTPhysio
opa.on.ca
Join us on Linkedln at Ontario
Physiotherapy Association
FEEDBACK
We would love to hear from you! Let us know what you liked or what you’d like to see
in the package for future grads! Send us a message on Facebook, Twitter or email us at
physiomail@opa.on.ca or give us a call at 416-322-6866.
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