The College continues to monitor developments related to the COVID-19 pandemic and we will update this page as information becomes available or changes. We acknowledge this has been a challenging time for healthcare professionals and the healthcare system. The safety of the public, including kinesiologists, remains our top priority. We appreciate your patience as we monitor and interpret guidance and, most importantly, your unwavering commitment to providing safe care to your patients/clients.
Current situation
In May 2020, Ontario’s Chief Medical Officer of Health released changes to Directive 2, which originally required all regulated health professionals to stop or reduce non-essential services.
The changes announced in May mean that kinesiologists and other regulated health professionals can, when all necessary precautions and protocols are in place to protect patients/clients and themselves, gradually and carefully begin providing all services, including non-essential services. View the changes to Directive 2.
While some regions of Ontario are at different levels in the province’s COVID-19 response framework, Directive 2 remains in place and kinesiologists and other health professionals can provide services, with certain limitations.
Some kinesiologists may practise in a region that has imposted restrictions on gyms and fitness facilities. The Ministry of Health has clarified that restrictions on gyms and fitness facilities only apply if a kinesiologist owns/operates or works at a facility for indoor sports and indoor recreational fitness activities. If a kinesiologist owns such a facility and wishes to use the space for one client at a time (i.e. no indoor group classes or multiple clients at time), this is permissible so long as the College’s guidance is followed.
Guidance for practising during COVID-19
Kinesiologists and their employers must assess the risks of providing service in-person and implement appropriate infection control and prevention measures. You should also monitor the spread of COVID-19 in your community as you make decisions about providing service. You can refer to data from the Ontario Government, Public Health Ontario and your local public health unit.
Where possible, you are encouraged to limit the number of in-person visits for your safety and the safety of patients/clients. Kinesiologists are in the best position to determine which services should be provided virtually and which services can safely resume in-person with appropriate precautions and protocols in place to protect you and your patients/clients. The updated Directive 2 lists principles to consider when making decisions about the type of service to provide.
Guidance for providing service in-person
- College guidance on return to practice
- College Practice Standard- Infection Control
- Infection control webinar from Public Health Ontario
Guidance for virtual care
Guidance from the Ministry of Health and Chief Medical Officer of Health
- Ministry of Health guidance on return to practice– General guidance for all health professionals
- General COVID-19 guidance from the Ministry of Health
- Directives from the Chief Medical Officer of Health
Information is changing quickly, so please note that guidance may change. Check the College’s website regularly for the latest guidance and information.
If you have any questions, please contact Danielle Lawrence, the College’s Practice Advisor, via email.