Over the past 72 hours, the College of Physiotherapists of Alberta staff and Council have received hundreds of calls, emails, and social media messages regarding the cancellation of the clinical component of the Physiotherapy Competence Examination. We recognize that emotions are running high and have empathy for those who have been affected by the cancellation. As we stated in our previous message to registrants, we share a common goal of finding answers for provisional registrants. We are committed to finding a resolution to this ongoing problem, one which also addresses the regulatory requirements established by our government mandate.
The volume of messages received has exceeded our capacity to respond to each person individually. Please know that we have read every email, listened to every voice message, and reviewed every social media post.
In response to your comments and questions, we have answered a number of FAQs and cleared up some misconceptions. Click here for more information.
We appreciate the many messages we have received in which registrants have shared their personal experiences and the challenges they have faced over the past year while they prepared for and attempted to complete the examination. Many members have shared their understandable frustration and anger. Many have also provided their suggestions and proposed solutions professionally and productively.
We are happy to engage with members to hear their experiences and suggestions. However, we remind all registrants that the Standards of Practice and expectations for professionalism befitting regulated health professionals and established in the Code of Ethical Conduct also apply to emails, voice messages, and social media posts. Threatening or abusive comments directed to Council or staff will not be tolerated.
We also remind registrants that many Council members are practicing clinicians and, like you, all have work and family obligations in addition to their Council duties.
Communications to the College of Physiotherapists of Alberta staff and Council members must be conducted using official College contact information. It is not acceptable to contact Council members using their personal or work contact information.
We recognize that in times of difficulty individuals often gather to discuss issues and ideas. Registrants who are considering gatherings are reminded that public health orders to stop the spread of COVID-19 remain in effect across Alberta, including:
- A prohibition on indoor private or public social gatherings under CMOH Order 04-2021.
- Restrictions limiting outdoor gatherings to 10 people, also in accordance with CMOH Order 04-2021.
- Public health orders also stipulate that individuals attending outdoor gatherings must adhere to public health measures including wearing a mask, maintaining physical distancing, and staying home if sick.
- The College of Physiotherapists of Alberta’s office is located in a private building and is also subject to current public health orders. Our office has been closed to visitors for several months, with the College of Physiotherapists of Alberta staff adhering to government requirements of mandatory work from home.
The College of Physiotherapists of Alberta remains committed to sharing information with PCE candidates and other stakeholders as it becomes available. The best place to find updated information is through our website or through direct email messages from the College. We encourage you to check the website for updates on a regular basis.
