For years they have been treating the public under the supervision of other health care professionals, but as of April 1, 2013, new legislation in Ontario recognizes kinesiologists as regulated health care providers in their own right.
“This is an important step in recognizing the significant role kinesiologists play in the health care system,” said Conny Glenn, President of the newly established College of Kinesiologists of Ontario.
Developed to improve the profession and protect the public, the College controls entry to the profession, sets standards of practice and handles complaints and malpractice concerns.
The legislation protects the title of kinesiologist and individuals must register with the College to use it in their professional description.
In order to become a member of the College, kinesiology graduates are required to write an entry-to-practice exam or submit documentation of practice hours to qualify under the grandparenting pathway.
The entry-to-practice requirements are designed to protect the public by ensuring the competency of the practitioners. By putting strict requirements in place the profession is demonstrating accountability and responsibility for its practice, which in turn creates public confidence in kinesiologists.”
-Conny Glenn, President, College of Kinesiologists of Ontario
The new legislation is causing a buzz in the kinesiology world.
“There is such a huge heterogeneity of kinesiology departments in the province,” said Waterloo’s Chair of Kinesiology, James Rush. “Curriculum and emphasized discipline areas can vary across schools, and therefore so do graduates.”
Waterloo places a strong focus on the disciplines of biomechanics, neuroscience, physiology and nutrition, and provides ample opportunity for experiential learning, practical experience, and data analysis.
“Given that graduates from different programs have been prepared in different ways, it must have been difficult for the College to come up with a rigorous minimum competency standards; our graduates have certainly been prepared to greatly exceed this standard,” said Rush.
Waterloo’s kinesiology department offers the best evidence-based health sciences curriculum, the best access to laboratories and practical experiences and the best research training in the province.
“Because of our curriculum, our program also prepares students for a host of other careers in addition to professional kinesiology.”
A number of Waterloo’s kinesiology graduates pursue careers in health-related fields such as medicine or physiotherapy, as well as in ergonomics, research and teaching.
“It’s an interesting and exciting time for the field of kinesiology, particularly in Ontario,” said Rush.