Filing a Complaint

The Saskatchewan College of Physical Therapists (SCPT) is a self-regulating professional body. Our purpose is to protect the public through the licensing, regulation and discipline of physical therapists (also known as physiotherapists) in the province of Saskatchewan.

In order to maintain a license in this province, each physical therapist must follow standards of practice and conduct established by the College. SCPT derives its mandate from the Physical Therapists Act 1998 in the province of Saskatchewan.

You have the right to expect competent and professional care from your physical therapist.

What do I do if I am not happy about my physical therapy treatment?
If you are concerned about the treatment you have received, talk to your physical therapist, his or her supervisor or the clinic owner.

If you are not satisfied, contact the Saskatchewan College of Physical Therapists (SCPT) and tell them your concerns. Often someone from SCPT can solve the problem by talking to you, to your therapist or to both of you.

All complaints are strictly confidential.

The Saskatchewan College of Physical Therapists doe not represent Physical Therapists. We represent You - the Public.

What will happen if I file a formal, written complaint?
If you are still not satisfied you may choose to fill out a written complaint form, asking the SCPT to examine the professional practice or conduct of the physical therapist to ensure public safety. The Saskatachewan College of Physical Therapists is required by law to investigate all signed, written complaints. All complaints are strictly confidential.

You will receive forms to fill out and will be asked to sign a release form allowing SCPT to access your clinical treatment file that is kept by the Therapist.

The Complaint will then be forwarded to the Professional Conduct Committee.

The complaint will be forwarded to the Professional Conduct Committee (PCC)

The Professional Conduct Committee (PCC) is a team of three or more people, most of whom are practicing physical therapists. The committee will investigate your complaint. They may review written documents, such as the clinical treatment file, and conduct interviews.

Investigation of the complaint may take 90 days or longer. A written report will be provided to you and the therapist regarding the findings of the investigation.

The Professional Conduct Committee can recommend that:
1) no further action be taken because:

- The matter was resolved between you and your therapist or

- No further action is necessary

2) the complaint be forwarded on to the next level, the Discipline Committee.

Discipline Committee

The Discipline Committee is a team of at least 5 people, most of whom are practicing physical therapists. One person is a member of the general public and appointed by the provincial government.

Your complaint will be heard by the committee in much the same way as a court of law. You may be asked to be a witness at the hearing.

After the hearing , the discipline committee may order:

Necessary education, medical treatment or counseling for the physical therapist
Reprimand by the SCPT.
Fines payable to the SCPT.
Restricted or supervised practice.
Suspension of license or expulsion from SCPT. The therapist may not be able to practice at all for a certain period of time, or permanently.

HOWEVER...

The Discipline Committee CANNOT order the Therapist to pay you financial compensation.

Both you and your therapist will be notified of this decision in writing.

CLICK HERE to download a complaint form
or
CLICK HERE to type out your complaint on the form (remember to save the document on your computer for your records or print off 2 copies- one for the office and one for your records)

If you would like more information about the complaints process or other
SCPT issues, please contact our office.