Every fall, hundreds of physiotherapists across the province are required to complete an online multiple-choice module called Jurisprudence.  

The activity tests a physiotherapist’s understanding of standards, legislation and rules related to practice in Ontario. It’s one of the ways the College ensures physiotherapists have sufficient knowledge to deliver safe and high-quality care.  

Jurisprudence is so important, the requirement to complete it is codified in law as part of the Physiotherapy Act. 

As a newly registered PT, you’ll need to complete the Jurisprudence during your first year. Then every five years after that. 

So, what happens if you don’t complete Jurisprudence? That’s exactly what one registrant found out the hard way in this Case of the Month. 

The Case

At the beginning of October, the physiotherapist was notified by email that they had to complete Jurisprudence. The deadline was set for December 5. Leading up to that date, they were sent eight reminder emails. 

On December 15, the College sent another email to the PT, telling them they had been granted an extended deadline and now had until December 30 to complete the module.  

The College also called and left a message for the PT.  

On February 15, the PT was given one final chance to finish the Jurisprudence module by March 15. In an email, the College told the PT if they didn’t complete it, the matter could be referred to the Inquiries, Complaints and Reports Committee (ICRC). 

The physiotherapist chose not complete the module by the March 15 deadline, and consequently, their case was referred. When contacted by an investigator, the PT said they hadn’t received the emails from the College, even though the College’s email software showed the messages had been opened.  

The PT also said they hadn’t practiced as a physiotherapist in several years and so were under the impression they didn’t need to complete the module. They added they were planning to resign their certificate of registration anyway.  

The Standards 

The physiotherapist in this case failed to meet their professional obligations.

Despite numerous reminders about the importance of Jurisprudence and the legal requirement to complete it, they did not.

In their decision, the Inquiries, Complaints and Reports Committee noted the College spent a great deal of time and effort trying to follow up with the PT and the issue could have easily been resolved if the PT had paid better attention to the College’s emails and phone calls.  

The Outcome 

The physiotherapist resigned their registration with the College.  

If they decide to reregister in the future, they will be required to receive a formal caution from the Inquiries, Complaints and Reports Committee. Notice of the caution would then be posted on the Public Register.