The Ontario Association of Osteopathic Practitioners (OAOP) is dedicated to maintaining the highest standards of professionalism, integrity, and ethical conduct within the osteopathic profession. This Code of Ethics serves as a foundational guide for all OAOP members, ensuring responsible, safe, and ethical care for patients.
Professional Integrity & Responsibility
๐น Members shall demonstrate honesty, integrity, and transparency in all professional interactions.
๐น Members shall accurately represent their qualifications, certifications, and scope of practice.
๐น Members shall not engage in fraudulent, deceptive, or misleading advertising or claims.Patient Care & Safety
๐น The health and well-being of patients shall remain the highest priority.
๐น Members shall provide competent, evidence-based, and patient-centered care.
๐น Members shall not discriminate against patients based on race, gender, religion, disability, sexual orientation, or any other protected characteristic.
๐น Members shall obtain informed consent before performing any osteopathic treatment.
๐น Members shall respect patient autonomy, including their right to seek second opinions or refuse treatment.Confidentiality & Privacy
๐น Members shall protect patient confidentiality and comply with privacy laws (e.g., PHIPA โ Personal Health Information Protection Act).
๐น Patient records shall be securely stored and shared only when legally required or with explicit patient consent.
๐น Members shall ensure accurate and timely documentation of patient records.Ethical Business & Financial Practices
๐น Members shall maintain fair and transparent billing practices.
๐น Members shall not engage in unethical business practices, including excessive fees, false claims, or misrepresentation of services.
๐น Members shall avoid conflicts of interest and disclose any financial relationships with third parties (e.g., suppliers, insurance providers).Professional Competence & Continuing Education
๐น Members shall maintain and enhance their professional skills through ongoing education and training.
๐น Members shall stay informed about advancements in osteopathic science and practice.
๐น Members shall recognize their own limitations and refer patients to other healthcare professionals when necessary.Respect for Colleagues & Interdisciplinary Collaboration
๐น Members shall treat colleagues, students, and healthcare professionals with respect and professionalism.
๐น Members shall collaborate with other healthcare providers in the best interest of the patient.
๐น Members shall not defame, harass, or undermine fellow practitioners or other healthcare professionals.Ethical Advertising & Public Representation
๐น Members shall provide truthful and professional representations of their services.
๐น Members shall not make exaggerated or false claims about treatment outcomes.
๐น Members shall only use titles and credentials that accurately reflect their education and certification.Disciplinary Actions & Compliance
๐น Members shall adhere to all laws, regulations, and professional standards governing osteopathy in Ontario.
๐น Members who violate this Code of Ethics are subject to investigation, disciplinary action, suspension, or revocation of membership.
๐น Members shall report any unethical or unlawful conduct by other practitioners to the OAOP Disciplinary & Complaints Committee.Public Trust & Social Responsibility
๐น Members shall contribute to the advancement of osteopathy and public awareness of its benefits.
๐น Members shall conduct themselves in a manner that enhances public trust in the osteopathic profession.
๐น Members shall actively promote health, wellness, and ethical healthcare practices.Do Not Represent as Registered Massage Therapists
๐น OAOP members do not represent themselves as registered massage therapists in Ontario unless they are duly licensed by the College of Massage Therapists of Ontario (CMTO).
Commitment to Ethical Practice
By becoming an OAOP member, all practitioners agree to uphold this Code of Ethics and the core values of integrity, professionalism, and patient-centered care.
๐ Failure to comply with this Code of Ethics may result in disciplinary action by the OAOP Board of Directors.
Together, we uphold the highest standards of osteopathic practice!