This Panel will hear complaints regarding licensed practitioners.
The composition of the Disciplinary Panel shall reflect the cultural, ethnic, and regional diversity of the province.
The Disciplinary Panel is comprised of:
• ten occupational therapists, who are not members of the Board who are appointed by the Board, one of whom shall be appointed by the Board to serve as chairperson
• the Minister shall appoint at least three persons, who are not licensed occupation al therapists, to represent the public interest
Diversity in the backgrounds, skills, knowledge, and experience of appointed Disciplinary Panel members can enhance the effectiveness of a Panel by bringing a wider range of perspectives and knowledge. Examples may include:
• Knowledge of professional regulation
• Knowledge of the Occupational Therapists Act, 2005
• Ability to read, analyze, and critically evaluate evidence to render a decision as per the Legislation
• Ability to listen, and work collaboratively as a team member
• Familiarity with the principals of good governance, including accountability, transparency, and ethical conduct
• Willingness to maintain confidentiality, and avoid conflict of interest
• Flexibility and willingness to have a wider perspective on issues, and to consider others’ opinions
• Technological competency: ability to attend meetings and hearings that may be conducted virtually
The following attributes are important considerations in selecting members:
• Demonstrated understanding of professional regulation
• Expressed interest in health care
• Previous board/disciplinary panel experience
• High ethical standards and integrity
• Administrative decision-making, and decision writing
• Appreciation of the responsibilities to the public
• Flexible, responsive and willing to consider others’ opinions
• Capable of a broad perspective on issues, with the ability to listen and work as a team member
• No direct or indirect conflict of interest
• Strong reasoning skills
• Committed and available to complete the required work
Panel members are only required if there is a disciplinary matter or upon the call of the Chair. A disciplinary matter will require approximately one week of dedicated time (hearing, deliberations and writing of the decision). Training will be provided when the need for an adjudication tribunal has been identified.
Members to the Disciplinary Panel shall be appointed for a term of three years.
Notwithstanding the expiry of his or her term, a member of the Disciplinary Panel continues to be a member until he or she is re-appointed or his or her replacement is appointed.
Persons appointed to the Disciplinary Panel may be reappointed.
