How to Work as a Physiotherapy Assistant in Canada as an Internationally Trained Physiotherapist

Introduction:

If you are an internationally trained physiotherapist living in Canada, what are your options to work in your field? Fortunately, there is a demand for physiotherapy assistants in Canada, and you can work in this role while you pursue your certification as a physiotherapist. This article will explain how you can work as a physiotherapy assistant in Canada as an internationally trained physiotherapist.

What is a Physiotherapy Assistant?

A physiotherapy assistant (PTA) is a healthcare professional who works under a physiotherapist’s supervision to treat patients. The PTA helps patients with exercises, stretches, and other therapeutic activities, and assists with the use of equipment and devices. They also document patient progress and communicate with other healthcare team members.

Requirements to Work as a Physiotherapy Assistant in Canada:

To work as a PTA in Canada, you must complete a diploma or certificate program in physiotherapy assisting recognized by the Canadian Alliance of Physiotherapy Regulators (CAPR). However, if you already have a PT license in other countries, you can work as a PTA without going to school again.

Steps to Become a Physiotherapy Assistant in Canada as an Internationally Trained Physiotherapist: (if you are in BC)

Step 1: Obtain a Credential Assessment from CAPR. The first step is to assess your educational credentials by CAPR to determine if they are comparable to Canadian standards. You can skip steps and apply for the job if your education is good enough.

Step 2: Complete an approved Physiotherapy Assistant program If you need additional training, you can enroll in a CAPR-recognized PTA program in Canada. These programs typically take one year to complete, including classroom instruction and practical training.

Step 3: Obtain certification from CPTBC After completing the PTA program, you need to obtain certification from CPTBC to work in this role. To do so, you must pass the Physiotherapy Assistant National Exam (PANE), administered by the Canadian Alliance of Physiotherapy Regulators (CAPR).

Step 4: Gain Work Experience Once you have obtained certification from CPTBC, you can begin working as a PTA in Canada. This is a great way to gain work experience and build your skills while you continue to pursue your certification as a physiotherapist.

Step 5: Job Outlook and Salary According to the Government of Canada Job Bank, the job outlook for physiotherapy assistants in Canada is good, with an expected growth rate of 8.1% from 2019 to 2028. The median hourly wage for PTAs in Canada is $25.00.

Conclusion:

Suppose you are an internationally trained physiotherapist living in Canada. In that case, working as a physiotherapy assistant can be a great way to gain experience and earn a living while pursuing your certification as a physiotherapist. Following the steps outlined in this article, you can become a certified PTA in Canada and begin working in this rewarding healthcare role. Remember to obtain a credential assessment from CAPR, complete an approved PTA program, obtain certification from CPTBC, gain work experience, and know the job outlook and salary for PTAs in Canada.

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There is more about CAPR and PCE articles in this blog.

• TO BE A PHYSIOTHERAPIST IN CANADA
• CAPR UPDATED LANGUAGE PROFICIENCY POLICY!