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Patient and Public Help

The College exists to protect the public. We are the organization that oversees the practice of occupational therapists in Ontario.


Contact the College for Patient and Public Help

If you have questions about working with an occupational therapist, we can help. The College's has occupational therapists on staff who are called Practice Consultants and they will respond to your inquiries. This service is free.

Email: [email protected]
Phone:
416-214-1177 or 1-800-890-6570 ext. 240.

Our goal is to respond within 2 business days.


Urgent questions and assistance locating an occupational therapist

Please contact the College during business hours: Monday-Friday, 8:30 a.m. - 4:30 p.m.

Phone: 416-214-1177 or 1-800-890-6570 press 0. 


What can people call about?

We receive calls about:

  • expectations and standards for practice for occupational therapists in Ontario
  • the rights of patients/clients when working with occupational therapists
  • specific occupational therapy practice situations within the province of Ontario

Who can call Patient and Public Help?

Anyone can contact the College's Patient and Public Help Service. College Practice Consultants are available to provide private and confidential support. All services are free of charge. Here are some examples of people who contact the College for assistance:

  • patients, clients and caregivers
  • employers
  • students
  • other health care providers
  • other members of the public

Sharing the correct information and advice supports the delivery of safe, ethical, and effective occupational therapy services.

If you have questions, please contact us and we will do our best to help.


Important things to know

Please be aware of the following:

  • The Patient and Public Help Service cannot offer a legal opinion or legal advice.

  • The Patient and Public Help Service will not provide an opinion on the actions of a caller as it relates to complaints or disciplinary decisions/action on the part of the College.

  • Information or assistance provided by the Patient and Public Help Service will not take the form of specific instruction or direction except where it is necessary in the interest of public safety.

  • Information provided by the service recipient will remain confidential and will not be shared or used by other programs/departments of the College except in the following situations:

    • where the College is authorized or required to release the information
    • where it is necessary to disclose the information in the interest of public safety

If there is an issue regarding legislation or legal matters beyond the scope of the College, the service recipient is encouraged to seek independent legal advice.