We are lawyers for kinesiologists who face complaints, investigations, and disciplinary proceedings at the College of Kinesiologists of Ontario (“COKO”).
How We Assist Kinesiologists
Our team of defence lawyers will assist kinesiologists with the following regulatory issues:
- Advising on compliance with the Regulated Health Professions Act, the Kinesiology Act, 2007, and the COKO’s Standards and Resources;
- Assisting kinesiologists with COKO registration applications;
- Responding to various inquiries at the College of Kinesiologists of Ontario, including drafting responses to patient complaints at the COKO that are reviewed by the Inquiries, Complaints, and Reports Committee (“ICRC”);
- Navigating issues related to the COKO’s Quality Assurance Program, including those related to its Self Assessment Guide and Continuing Professional Development Plan, and the Essential Competencies of Practice for Kinesiologists in Ontario;
- Defending kinesiologists at COKO discipline hearings;
- Representing kinesiologists in COKO appeals before the Health Professions Appeal and Review Board (“HPARB”) where a decision of the ICRC has been made;
- Assisting with COKO fitness to practice matters;
- Reporting past history, including criminal charges and findings of guilt, to the COKO; and
- Advising kinesiologists on other practice issues that may arise, including employment and contractual issues, unauthorized practice, and privacy and confidentiality.
Articles
What Kinesiologists Need to Know About Discipline Hearings at the COKO
Following the formal investigation of a complaint to the College of Kinesiologists of Ontario (COKO) the Inquiries, Complaints and Reports Committee (ICRC) will decide how to address a kinesiologist’s conduct and may make a referral to the Discipline Committee. The Discipline Committee will then conduct a hearing to consider the allegations and decide the case. In general, cases that involve a high-risk to the public, such as allegations of sexual abuse and fraudulent billing, are more likely to result in a referral to the Discipline Committee. This is the most serious disposition the ICRC can make and can intensify what is likely an already stressful situation for a kinesiologist. What follows is a brief guide to discipline hearings.
What Kinesiologists Need to Know about Reviewing COKO Decisions at the Health Professions Appeal and Review Board (HPARB)
When formal complaints are made against kinesiologists at the College of Kinesiologists of Ontario (“COKO”), the Inquiries, Complaints and Reports Committee (ICRC) is responsible for making a decision on the matter.
Responding to Complaints at the College of Kinesiologists of Ontario
Any kinesiologist may become subject to a complaint at the College of Kinesiologists of Ontario. The complaint process can result in professional consequences. To assist with this stressful situation, we have prepared this overview for responding to complaints.