knowing what to do if they feel they haven't received the care expected or have been abused.
Under the Regulated Health Professions Act, 1991 (RHPA), the College of Naturopaths of Ontario, like every other health regulatory College in Ontario, has to have a Patient Relations Committee. It provides programs, education and resources to help patients and Naturopathic Doctors to understand professional behaviour, and to prevent the sexual abuse of patients.
The College has a zero tolerance policy regarding sexual abuse or impropriety by members of the College. All NDs and employers are required to report, in writing, if they learn of, or witness, the sexual abuse of a patient by an ND or any other regulated health practitioner. Reports must go to the College or, in the case of suspected abuse by another category of health professional, to the governing body of that professional. Failure to report the incident is an offence under the RHPA.
Understanding Sexual Abuse (a Patient information guide).
Guideline for the Prevention of Sexual Abuse (a Member guide).
Information about and applications for access to the Patient Therapy and Counselling Fund.
For any questions or clarification about the Patient Relations Program, please contact the College.