What Is Fitness to Practice?

Being “fit to practice” means you have the physical, mental, and emotional health needed to do your job safely and effectively.

Fitness to practice can be affected by:

  • Illness or injury
  • Fatigue
  • Substance use (alcohol, drugs, etc.)
  • Ongoing health conditions or addictions
  • Certain treatments

Key Points

  • Having a concern doesn’t automatically mean you’re unfit to practice
  • The College may allow you to continue with accommodations or restrictions
  • Your personal health information is protected by law

Who Can Report a Concern?

  • You (the registrant) – when applying, renewing, or before going on leave (short/long-term disability)
  • Others – coworkers, managers, patients, or members of the public
  • The College may become aware of concerns

What Are Your Responsibilities?

  • Regularly assess your fitness to practice
  • Do not work if your ability is affected
  • Report any issues that could affect your safe practice – self-declare on the application or renewal form
  • Submit a Fitness to Practice Disclosure Form if needed

When Do You Need to Report?

  • When applying for registration or reinstatement
  • When renewing your practice permit
  • Before going on a short or long-term leave
  • When returning to work after a leave

What Happens if You Report a Concern?

  • You may have a condition or restriction added to your practice permit
  • You may need to submit proof that your health issue is managed
  • In serious cases, registration may be denied or delayed
  • A note may be added to your file if there is no significant impact

Continuing Competence Requirements

Submit the Fitness to Practice Disclosure Form to request an exemption if your fitness affects continuing competence requirements.

Need to Report?

Complete the Fitness to Practice Disclosure Form