The College only has jurisdiction over occupational therapy practice in Ontario. The College’s position is that “practise” occurs where the occupational therapist is located and registered, not where the client is located.
Occupational Therapists Registered in Other Provinces
Occupational therapists registered in other provinces who want to provide virtual services to clients in Ontario can do so based on their existing registration in the province they are located. However, they must be transparent with clients about where they are located and registered and must follow the rules and regulations that apply to the license they hold. Occupational therapists from other provinces must obtain temporary or general registration in Ontario to provide in-person services to clients located in Ontario.
Occupational Therapists Registered in Ontario wanting to provide Virtual Services to clients in other Provinces or Countries
Other jurisdictions may have different requirements for providing virtual services. Ontario occupational therapists should contact the regulator in the province or country where the client is located to confirm requirements to deliver virtual services.
Occupational therapists registered in Ontario who offer virtual services to clients in other jurisdictions are accountable to COTO. If there is a concern or complaint about their services, COTO can investigate.
Considerations for occupational therapists when providing virtual services to clients in a different jurisdiction (province or country):
- Confirm registration requirements in the jurisdiction where you will be practising
- Inform the client of your location and the regulatory College where you hold registration and the process to report concerns or complaints. For occupational therapists registered in Ontario, clients can be directed to information about filing a complaint here: coto.org/you-and-your-ot/questions-concerns-complaints
- Confirm client identity and current location
- Practice within the limits of the license of registration in province where you are registered
- Ensure your professional liability insurance provides coverage for virtual activities with clients located in other provinces or countries
- Ensure you have adequate information about resources in the current location of the client
- Discuss any additional risks and benefits of receiving virtual services from an occupational therapist working from a different province
- Have a contingency plan should virtual services no longer be appropriate.