ADVANCE YOUR PHYSIOTHERAPY CAREER IN BRITISH COLUMBIA (BC), CANADA

Transcription

1 ADVANCE YOUR PHYSIOTHERAPY CAREER IN BRITISH COLUMBIA (BC), CANADA

2 DISCOVER THE PERFECT PLACE TO CALL HOME You will find that British Columbia (BC), Canada is the perfect place to advance your career AND live the life you ve always wanted. Choose from a variety of positions in both rural communities and urban areas where you can make a real impact on patient care. Rewarding career opportunities are available throughout the province, and no matter where you choose to live, you ll feel in awe of the power and beauty of nature. The pursuit of a balanced lifestyle is taken seriously in BC - the spectacular scenery, unlimited recreational activities, rewarding career opportunities, and safe, caring communities create an inspiring backdrop for everything you do. You owe it to yourself to consider BC.

3 ADVANCE YOUR PHYSIOTHERAPY CAREER IN BRITISH COLUMBIA Interested in matching your lifestyle with exciting career opportunities? We are here to help! Health Match BC is a free recruitment service for health professionals funded by the Government of British Columbia (BC), Canada. We facilitate the recruitment of physiotherapists on behalf of BC s publicly funded health employers. Our experienced allied health recruitment services team will guide you through the recruitment process and support you in making a seamless transition to your new job. Register online so our allied health recruitment services team can: y Guide you through the professional licensing process. y Match your skills and interests to job vacancies in regions of your choice. y Provide you with information about communities of interest. y Connect you with prospective employers and/or regional health employers. y Provide information and guidance on the immigration process. Choose your opportunity... British Columbia offers a wide range of physiotherapy positions throughout the province. Choose from a broad range of opportunities within the province s eight health employers: First Nations Health Authority fnha.ca Fraser Health fraserhealth.ca Interior Health interiorhealth.ca Island Health viha.ca Northern Health northernhealth.ca Providence Health Care providencehealthcare.org Provincial Health Services Authority phsa.ca Vancouver Coastal Health vch.ca Learn more at healthmatchbc.org

4 PHYSIOTHERAPISTS Provincial Registration Physiotherapy, also known as physical therapy, is a regulated profession in Canada and physiotherapists are licensed/registered to practise by the provincial/ territorial regulatory colleges. To practise in British Columbia (BC), and use the title Physiotherapist, Physical Therapist, Registered Physiotherapist, Registered Physical Therapist, or the professional designation PT, you must be registered with the College of Physical Therapists of British Columbia (CPTBC). Credentials Prior to registering with the College of Physical Therapists of British Columbia (CPTBC), you must pass the Physiotherapist Competency Examination (PCE), which is administered by the Canadian Alliance of Physiotherapy Regulators (CAPR or the Alliance). CAPR administers the PCE for internationally-educated physiotherapists (IEPTs) and graduates of Canadian programs to determine their readiness for safe, effective and independent physiotherapy practice. CAPR is also the credentialing and assessment agency that reviews the education and qualifications of applicants educated outside of Canada to determine whether or not their education and qualifications are substantially different from those of Canadian-educated physiotherapists. PHYSIOTHERAPY COMPETENCY EXAMINATION The Physiotherapy Competency Examination (PCE) is comprised of two parts: the Written Component and the Clinical Component. You must successfully complete the Written Component before you can take the Clinical Component. The Written Component is a multiple choice exam that covers a broad base of knowledge in the practice areas of neuromusculoskeletal, neurological, cardiopulmonary-vascular and multisystem. It tests your ability to use and integrate clinical knowledge, and to solve clinical problems using clinical scenarios. There is a minimum overall score that you must achieve to pass the Written Component. The Clinical Component tests the safe and effective use of the principles and processes of physiotherapy practice. Communication skills and professional behaviour are included in the knowledge, skills and abilities assessed in this component of the PCE. For more information on the examination process, please go to alliancept.org EDUCATION Canadian-educated physiotherapists must be enrolled in an entry-to-practice physiotherapy program that has been accredited by Physiotherapy Education Accreditation Canada (PEAC). Candidates may attempt the Written Component of the Physiotherapy Competency Exam (PCE) in their final term of academic study. However, you must have completed your full course of study and be eligible for graduation to attempt the Clinical Component of the PCE. Before an internationally educated physiotherapist (IEPT) can attempt the Written Component of the PCE, they must: complete the Canadian Alliance of Physiotherapy Regulators (CAPR) credentialing process, have written confirmation that they have successfully met CAPR credentialing standards, and provide proof of language proficiency in English or French. ENGLISH PROFICIENCY REQUIREMENTS If you were educated in a language other than English, an English fluency test is required to confirm proficiency. Only TOEFL, CanTEST or IELTS exams will be accepted. All scores (total scores and component scores) must meet the minimum requirements in one sitting. Combining of more than one test to meet the language proficiency requirements will not be accepted. Language test scores must be submitted to the College of Physical Therapists of British Columbia (CPTBC) directly from the testing agency and be less than two years old. TEST MINIMUM SCORES ACCEPTED TOEFL Total score of at least 92 Internet-based Test of English as a Foreign Language (TOEFL ibt) CAN TEST Canadian Test of English for Scholars and Trainees (administered by the University of Ottawa in Canada) Minimum scores of 21 in each category (Listening, Writing, Speaking & Reading). Average score of at least 4 Oral interview rating of at least 4.5, rating on remaining components must be at least 4.0 IELTS (Academic Version) Score of at least 7 International English Language Testing System Test must include all components: Listening, Reading, Writing & Speaking

5 Canadian Physiotherapists LABOUR MOBILITY Physiotherapists currently registered in another Canadian jurisdiction, with an unrestricted practice certificate that is similar to full registration status with the College of Physical Therapists of British Columbia (CPTBC), may be eligible for full registration with CPTBC under the Agreement of Internal Trade (AIT) 2009 (Chapter 7) or the Alberta/British Columbia Trade, Investment and Labour Mobility Agreement (applicable for physiotherapists currently fully registered with Physiotherapy Alberta College and Association). Under the Labour Mobility Agreement, when the registration categories of two jurisdictions are similar, no new requirements are expected (with the exception of a review of the candidate s previous discipline history and other administrative matters). If you were educated in a language other than English, an English fluency test is required to confirm proficiency. For the latest information, please go to cptbc.org College of Physical Therapists of British Columbia FULL REGISTRATION You are eligible for full registration with the College of Physical Therapists of British Columbia (CPTBC) if you have: 1. Completed your physiotherapy degree in a Canadian educational institution that has been accredited by Physiotherapy Education Accreditation Canada (PEAC), and successfully completed both components of the Physiotherapy Competency Examination (PCE); OR 2. Completed your physiotherapy degree in an international program, successfully completed your credentialing process with the Canadian Alliance of Physiotherapy Regulators (CAPR), and successfully completed both components of the PCE. Governing Bodies College of Physical Therapists of British Columbia (CPTBC) Regulates the practice of physiotherapy in BC by setting standards for entry into the profession, registering physiotherapists, setting and enforcing rules that registrants must follow, and developing programs to promote the highest standard of physiotherapy practice. cptbc.org Canadian Alliance of Physiotherapy Regulators (CAPR) Administers the Physiotherapy Competency Examination (PCE), and assesses the credentials and education of internationally educated physiotherapists. alliancept.org Professional Associations Canadian Physiotherapy Association (CPA) National organization supporting the practice of physiotherapy in Canada by providing resources, education, ideas and advocacy to ensure Canadians receive quality care. physiotherapy.ca Physiotherapy Association of BC (PABC) The voice of physiotherapy in BC, ensures members have access to practice support, professional development and advocacy tools. bcphysio.org INTERIM REGISTRATION The CPTBC Registration Committee is authorized to grant interim registration for a maximum of fifteen months. The actual length of an interim registration is dependent on successful completion of the PCE. You are eligible for interim registration with CPTBC if you have: PLEASE NOTE: Registration with CPA &/or PABC is not mandatory

6 1. Completed your physiotherapy degree in a Canadian educational institution that has been accredited by PEAC, are registered for both the written and clinical portions of the PCE, and have a confirmed supervisory employment arrangement with a fully registered physiotherapist in BC; OR 2. Completed your physiotherapy degree in an international program, successfully completed your credentialing process with CAPR, are registered for both the written and clinical portions of the PCE and have a confirmed supervisory employment arrangement with a fully registered physiotherapist in BC. For more information please go to cptbc.org PLEASE NOTE: Once an applicant is eligible for full or interim registration with CPTBC, they should inform Health Match BC so that our allied health recruitment services team can start referring their application to health employers with job vacancies. Internationally Educated Physiotherapists Exam Preparation The Internationally Educated Physiotherapists Exam Preparation (IEPEP) Program is a self-directed program that assists internationally educated physiotherapists (IEPTs) who are preparing to sit the national Physiotherapy Competency Exam (PCE) and enter into clinical physiotherapy practice in BC. The IEPEP Program is also open to Canadian-trained physiotherapists who may wish to refresh their skills or competencies, or who have been out of practice and are required to sit the PCE for re-entry into practice. The IEPEP program encompasses both theoretical and practical components, and includes practice examinations and workshops which focus on knowledge, clinical skills, and clinical reasoning. More information on the IEPEP program is available at iepbc.ca This information is current as of September 2018 and is subject to change. The latest information can be found on our website at healthmatchbc.org.

7 IMMIGRATION Coming to Canada To work in British Columbia (BC) as a registered physiotherapist, an internationally educated physiotherapist (IEPT) who is not a Canadian citizen or a permanent resident must have authorization to work in Canada by way of a work permit. To apply for a work permit, you may be required to provide evidence that you have applied to the College of Physical Therapists of British Columbia (CPTBC) for registration. For more information, please contact Citizenship and Immigration Canada at cic.gc.ca When the applicant receives a full-time offer of employment and has obtained eligibility to practise as a physiotherapist in BC, the prospective employer will initiate the immigration process. The applicant has two immigration options: a temporary work permit, and/or applying to the Provincial Nominee Program (PNP). Temporary Work Permit A temporary work permit allows applicants to work in Canada for a specific employer for up to three years. This permit is renewable and allows the candidate s spouse to apply for work in Canada. To obtain a temporary work permit, an applicant needs to: y Download an application form from Citizenship and Immigration Canada at cic.gc.ca y Complete all of the forms including the documents from their prospective employer and gather all of the required documentation. y Submit the application and the required fees to the closest Canadian embassy, high commission or consulate, or the nearest Citizenship and Immigration Canada Visa Office. PLEASE NOTE: If an incomplete immigration application is submitted, the application will be returned. Citizenship and Immigration Canada will then: y Mail a letter confirming that the application has been received. The applicant will also be given a Medical Report Application Form to be taken to a designated medical practitioner. A list of practitioners will be sent with the forms. y Mail a letter informing the applicant of the outcome of the work permit application. Successful work permit applications are provided with a letter of introduction and instructions on the next steps to be taken. Applications for temporary work permits take approximately six to eight months to be processed. Provincial Nominee Program If you are an internationally educated physiotherapist (IEPT), you may be eligible to apply to the Provincial Nominee Program (PNP) under the Skills Immigration Healthcare Professional category. This program is an alternate means of obtaining permanent resident status in Canada for skilled workers that are not Canadian citizens or permanent residents of Canada. In addition to meeting the general requirements to qualify for the Skills Immigration Healthcare Professional category, you must have: 1. An offer of indeterminate, full-time employment with a public health authority as a physiotherapist. 2. At least two (2) years of directly related full-time (or equivalent) work experience in the occupation that has been offered to you, and if applicable, the credentials and qualification requirements for the position. 3. A written offer of employment on official letterhead from your prospective employer. 4. Evidence that you meet the minimum income requirements. 5. English language proficiency (if applicable). PLEASE NOTE: All requirements must be met at the time of application. When you receive your PNP nomination, you can use the nomination to apply for permanent resident status in Canada, and your temporary work permit. You will be able to commence employment while you are waiting for your permanent resident status to be approved if you have a temporary work permit. Further information is available on the Government of British Columbia s website at welcomebc.ca

8 GEOGRAPHICAL REGIONS The North Served by Northern Health, Provincial Health Services Authority, and First Nations Health Authority. Much of Northern BC is preserved and protected by a world-class system of provincial parks and nature reserves. Known for its freshwater and saltwater fishing, paddling, hiking, skiing and snowmobiling, northern BC is pure unspoiled nature. y Home to the Kitlope Heritage Conservancy Protected Area, the world s largest intact coastal temperate rainforest. y Approximately 40% of the population lives in rural communities. y Northern BC s vast wilderness is larger than California or Japan, and twice the size of the United Kingdom. y The North has proportionally more residents under the age of 15 than any other region in BC. Fraser Valley Served by Fraser Health, Provincial Health Services Authority, and First Nations Health Authority. The Fraser Valley is a short drive from Vancouver, and is a popular area for many professionals and families who want to live outside of the big city, yet remain close to its cultural options and entertainment venues. y Home to Surrey, the second largest city in BC, and one of the fastest growing cities in Canada. y One in four people who live in the Fraser Valley work in Metro Vancouver. y Over half the province s agricultural activity is centred in the Fraser Valley, including nearly 30 vineyards and 15 wineries. y 60% of British Columbians live in the Fraser Valley or Vancouver and the Coast, yet the regions cover less than 5% of BC s total land mass. Vancouver and the Coast Served by Vancouver Coastal Health, Providence Health Care, Provincial Health Services Authority, and First Nations Health Authority. The climate is usually mild and temperate, but the region s mountains are renowned for their epic snowfalls. y Home to a wide range of sophisticated amenities including fine dining, high end shopping, museums, art galleries, as well as skiing, hiking and boating. y The Sunshine Coast (northwest of Vancouver) has one of the largest per-capita populations of artists in the country. y Whistler, a world-class resort consistently ranked among the best in the world, is a 1.5 hour drive from the city. y Approximately 40% of Metro Vancouver s population was born outside of Canada. y Vancouver was recently ranked as the third most liveable place in the world for its high standard of living and quality of life. It is also ranked as one of the cleanest cities in the world.

9 THE NORTH FRASER VALLEY VANCOUVER AND THE COAST THE INTERIOR VANCOUVER ISLAND The Interior Served by Interior Health, Provincial Health Services Authority, and First Nations Health Authority. This is a diverse region featuring open ranges and rolling hills in the Cariboo, abundant orchards and vineyards in the Okanagan, and the majestic beauty of the Rocky Mountains in the Kootenays. y Home to four of the seven national parks in BC as well as Osoyoos Lake, the warmest freshwater lake in Canada. y With an abundance of mountain ranges in the Kootenays, including the Rocky Mountains, the area is a popular destination for skiers and nature lovers. y The Okanagan area is the third most populated region in the province, and is home to 12% of the population of BC. During the summer, the Okanagan area has some of the hottest temperatures in all of Canada. Vancouver Island Serviced by Island Health, Provincial Health Services Authority, and First Nations Health Authority. The region has one of the world s most diverse ecosystems ranging from rugged rainforest coastlines to bucolic rural landscapes, and is world renowned for whale watching, birding, salmon and trout fishing. y Home to Victoria, the capital of BC, the beauty and tranquility of this region has long been a draw for artists and artisans. y Some 7,000 known species inhabit the coastal waters including more than 200 species of migratory birds and 33 species of land mammals. y Vancouver Island is the largest island on the west coast of North America. Rural British Columbia BC s rural towns and smaller cities offer natural beauty, access to backcountry adventures, community connections, peace of mind, and a quieter way of life. Experience the satisfaction that comes from knowing your neighbours and being involved in your community. Working and living in a rural or remote area provides the opportunity to make a vital and valued contribution to your community both in and out of the workplace. CAREER y Variety of work - opportunities often exist to practise across a broader spectrum of your professional scope of practice. y Teamwork with other health professionals to ensure seamless patient care. y Access to specialist services in the community, through visiting physicians or via telemedicine case conferencing. LIFESTYLE y Slower pace of life and the great outdoors. y Lower cost of living compared to urban centres. y Diverse communities and cultures.

10 RESOURCES British Columbia Health Employers BC health employers that serve distinct geographical regions: Fraser Health Interior Health Island Health Northern Health Vancouver Coastal Health fraserhealth.ca interiorhealth.ca viha.ca northernhealth.ca vch.ca BC health employers that service the entire province: First Nations Health Authority Provincial Health Services Authority Faith-based BC health employer: Providence Health Care Useful Physiotherapy Websites fnha.ca phsa.ca providencehealthcare.org CANADIAN ALLIANCE OF PHYSIOTHERAPY REGULATORS (CAPR) Administers the Physiotherapy Competency Examination (PCE), and assesses the credentials and education of internationally educated physiotherapists (IEPTs). alliancept.org COLLEGE OF PHYSICAL THERAPISTS OF BRITISH COLUMBIA (CPTBC) Registers and regulates the practice of physiotherapists in BC. cptbc.org CANADIAN PHYSIOTHERAPY ASSOCIATION (CPA) National organization that supports the practice of physiotherapy by providing resources, education, ideas and advocacy to ensure Canadians receive quality care. physiotherapy.ca PHYSIOTHERAPY ASSOCIATION OF BRITISH COLUMBIA (PABC) The voice of physiotherapy in BC ensures members have access to practice support, professional development and advocacy tools. bcphysio.org UNIVERSITY OF BRITISH COLUMBIA INTERNATIONALLY EDUCATED PHYSIOTHERAPISTS EXAM PREPARATION (IEPEP) PROGRAM A self-directed program that assists internationally educated physiotherapists (IEPTs) to prepare for the Physiotherapy Competency Exam (PCE). iepbc.ca SELF-ASSESSMENT READINESS TOOL (SART) Provides helpful information to determine if you are ready and able to become licensed as a physiotherapist in Canada. assesshealthcareers.ca Useful Career and Immigration Websites CANADIAN INFORMATION CENTRE FOR INTERNATIONAL CREDENTIALS Provides information on how to obtain an assessment to work or study in Canada by assisting individuals, employers, professionals, and organizations regarding foreign credential recognition and the assessment of diplomas and qualifications in Canada. cicic.ca/2/home.canada CAREER TREK Government of British Columbia website featuring careers in BC. careertrekbc.ca CITIZENSHIP AND IMMIGRATION CANADA (CIC) Provides information and rules for visiting Canada, studying in Canada as an international student, working temporarily as a foreign worker, immigrating to Canada (gaining a permanent resident visa), and/or obtaining Canadian citizenship. There are important sections to review, including how to protect oneself from immigration fraud. cic.gc.ca WELCOME BC Learn more about living, working or studying in BC, and how to settle into your new life. welcomebc.ca

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