Advisory Statements are published by the College of Occupational Therapists of British Columbia to increase registrants’ awareness of important issues relevant to the practice of occupational therapy and/or critical issues that have the potential to affect, or have a direct impact on, occupational therapy practice.
B.C. Provincial Health Officer Order SARS-CoV-2 Swabbing
This advisory statement provides an overview and regulatory considerations related to the Health Authority Regulated Health Professional SARS-CoV-2 Swabbing Order issued by B.C.’s Provincial Health Officer on November 16th, 2020. Unless rescinded earlier, the Order is in effect until the date the Provincial Health Officer provides notice that the COVID-19 regional emergency has passed.
Medical Assistance in Dying (MAiD): Considerations for Occupational Therapists
Release Date: June 2020; Revised: May 2023
This advisory statement provides an overview on medical assistance in dying (MAiD), including current legal and ethical considerations for occupational therapy practice in British Columbia.
Occupational Therapists’ Role in Determining Incapability to Consent to Facility Admission
Release Date: November 4, 2019; Revised: May 2023
This advisory statement describes the roles that occupational therapists may have in completing assessments to determine the incapability of a client to consent to admission to a care facility. Specifically, it explores the impact that Part 3 of the Health Care (Consent) and Care Facility (Admission) Act (HCCCFAA) has on occupational therapists’ practice.
Use of Title
Release Date: November 2011; Revised: January 2020
This advisory statement informs occupational therapists regarding how to use their reserved title with respect to university degrees, job titles, and other credentials. It suggests ways in which students and support personnel can be identified when supervised by an OT. Inappropriate use of title is also outlined.
Administration and Distribution of Naloxone by Occupational Therapists
Release Date: March 13, 2017; Revised: October 19, 2017
This advisory statement clarifies the roles occupational therapists may have in administering and/or distributing naloxone. Specifically, it discusses the impact that amendments to the Health Professions General Regulation and the unscheduling of emergency use naloxone have on occupational therapists’ practice.
Occupational Therapists’ Assessment of Financial Management and Incapability
Release Date: April 27, 2015; Revised: May 2023
This advisory statement clarifies the various roles occupational therapists can have in the assessment of clients’ financial management abilities. Specifically, it explores the impact of Section 2.1 of the Adult Guardianship Act (AGA) and Statutory Property Guardianship (SPG) Regulation on occupational therapists’ practice.
Providing Access to and Releasing Occupational Therapy Information
Release Date: July 2009; Revised: May 2023
This advisory statement focuses specifically on the responsibilities relating to access, disclosure and release of information gathered as part of the occupational therapy service provision.
Remedying a Breach of Security: COTBC Reporting Requirements
Release Date: October 2010; Revised: May 2023
Information an occupational therapist must provide COTBC when there has been a breach of security is outlined in this document.
