We are lawyers for audiologists and speech-language pathologists who face regulatory issues at the College of Audiologists and Speech-Language Pathologists of Ontario (CASLPO).
How We Assist Audiologists and Speech-Language Pathologists
Our team of defence lawyers represents audiologists and speech-language pathologists on various matters, including the following:
- Advising on issues related to the Regulated Health Professions Act and the Audiology and Speech-Language Pathology Act, 1991 (“ASLPA”);
- Responding to various inquiries at the College of Audiologists and Speech-Language Pathologists of Ontario, including drafting responses to audiology and speech-language pathology patient complaints that are reviewed by the CASLPO’s Inquiries, Complaints, and Reports Committee (“ICRC”);
- Defending audiologists and speech-language pathologists at CASLPO discipline hearings;
- Representing audiologists and speech-language pathologists in CASLPO appeals before the Health Professions Appeal and Review Board (“HPARB”) (e.g. where a decision of the ICRC has been made);
- Assisting with CASLPO fitness to practice matters;
- Assisting audiologists and speech-language pathologists in CASLPO registration applications;
- Reporting past history, including criminal charges and findings of guilt, to the College of Audiologists and Speech-Language Pathologists of Ontario; and
- Advising audiologists and speech-language pathologists on other practice issues that may arise, including employment and contractual issues, unauthorized practice, and privacy and confidentiality.
Articles
What Audiologists and Speech-Language Pathologists Need to Know About Discipline Hearings at the OASLPDT
Prior to the hearing, the CASLPO may hold a pre-hearing conference. The purpose of this facilitated conference is to reach an agreement on as many issues as possible, and if the audiologist and/or speech-language pathologist and the CASLPO cannot arrive at a resolution, schedule the hearing. Pre-hearing conferences are, in general, confidential and without prejudice.
What Audiologists / Speech Language Pathologists Need to Know about Reviewing CASLPO Decisions at the Health Professions Appeal and Review Board (HPARB)
What Audiologists / Speech Language Pathologists Need to Know about Reviewing CASLPO Decisions at the Health Professions Appeal and Review Board (HPARB)
What Audiologists and Speech-Language Pathologists Need to Know about the CASLPO Discipline Process
Following the investigation which may result from a complaint, or a formal investigation into the practice of an audiologist or speech-language pathologist under subsection 75(1) of the Health Professions Procedural Code, the Inquiries, Complaints and Reports Committee (“ICRC”) will determine how to address the investigation’s findings. Among the options available to the ICRC, one disposition the Committee can make is to refer the matter to the Discipline Committee of the College of Audiologists and Speech-Language Pathologists of Ontario (“CASLPO” or the “College”).
Responding to Complaints at the CASLPO: What Audiologists and Speech-Language Pathologists Need to Know
The pressures of the formal complaint process, including the possibility of professional consequences, may negatively impact audiologists and speech-language pathologists, who may not know exactly how to respond. In light of these potential difficulties, we have prepared this brief guide to responding to complaints at the CASLPO.