Alberta legislation requires physical therapists, and other heath providers to report suspected case of abuse of adults in a publicly-funded facility/program and child abuse/neglect. The legislation is as follows:

• Protection for Persons in Care Act – requires abuse of adults receiving public funded    services (e.g., nursing home, group home, hospitals) be reported and investigated. If
   a physical therapist suspects abuse they must report it to one of the following:

   1. Protection of persons in care office by phone 1.888.357.9339, fax 780.415.8611,
       mail or by downloading and submitting a reporting form.
   2. Police (for criminal matters or matters that immediately affect a person’s wellbeing).
   3. Organization authorised by another enactment to investigate abuse (e.g., the
       College of Physical Therapists of Alberta).

   For more information consult the College’s Therapeutic Relationships: Establishing and
   Maintaining Professional Boundaries - Appendix E – mandatory reporting of abuse. For
   specific infomation on the Act, reporting requirements and process visit
   www.seniors.gov.ab.ca/CSS/persons_in_care/general_info/index.asp.

• Child, Youth and Family Enhancement Act – requires situations/suspicions of abuse
   neglect, emotional injury and/or exploitation of children to be reported. To report
   suspected child abuse call the government of Alberta child abuse hotline 1.800.387.5437.
   For more information see the College’s ‘Therapeutic Relationships: Establishing and
   Maintaining Professional Boundaries - Appendix E – mandatory reporting of abuse and
   visit www.child.gov.ab.ca/home/525.cfm.

Employee termination notification
Once physical therapists are regulated by the Health Professions Act, employers will be legally obligated to report the termination, suspension or resignation of a physical therapist for reasons of unprofessional conduct, incapacity or incompetence. Reporting helps the College maintain public/patient safety and best interest.