Practising during COVID-19 – College of Kinesiologists of Ontario

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

On June 30th, 2021 the Ontario Government moved into Step Two of its Roadmap to Reopen.

For the latest information on restrictions in place in Ontario, view the Ontario Government’s COVID-19 web page.

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.

Guidance for providing service in-person

College guidance on returning to practice– [Updated December 10, 2020]
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.

FAQs

Regulated health professionals, such as kinesiologists, can continue to practise during the pandemic. Kinesiologists are in the best position to determine which services to continue providing during this time, in consideration of their unique circumstances (e.g. patient/client needs, local restrictions, etc.). The College encourages all kinesiologists to use their professional judgement to determine which services should be provided in-person, and which may be better suited to provide virtually.

While you are permitted to work during this time, you may work at a setting that is closed. Please also discuss these circumstances with your employer and adjust your practice as necessary. If appropriate, you may be able to provide services virtually.

No, you do not need to report this information to the College. However, all kinesiologists are reminded that COVID-19 is a reportable disease, and you must contact your local public health unit to report any probable and confirmed cases of COVID-19.