In addition to the RHPA, each of the regulated health professions is governed by profession-specific legislation. For Respiratory Therapy, that legislation is the Respiratory Therapy Act (RTA). The RTA includes a scope of practice statement, a list of authorized acts as well as a restricted title provision.
Regulations Made under the Respiratory Therapy Act
Provincial Legislation
Apology Act, 2009
This legislation grants that an apology made by or on behalf of a person in relation to any civil matter does not constitute an admission of fault or liability. This applies, but is not limited to, healthcare matters; however, it is not applicable in criminal proceedings.
Chase McEachern Act, 2007
Developed to protect individuals from civil liability when they attempt to save a life using an automated external defibrillator (AED).
Drug and Pharmacies Regulation Act, 1990
Defines the operation of pharmacies and the prescribing/ dispensing of drugs.
Healing Arts Radiation Protection Act, 1990
Legislation that covers the installation and use of x-ray machines and CT scanners.
Health Care Consent Act, 1996
Developed to establish the responsibilities with respect to consent to treatment that applies consistently in all health care settings.
Local Health System Integration Act, 2006
Legislative provision that shifts the management of the health system moves to the local level by establishing the local health integration networks (LHIN).
Fixing Long-Term Care Act, 2021
Regarding the co-ordination of community services provided by multi-service agencies with those services offered by hospitals, long-term care facilities, mental health services, health care professionals and social service agencies, and to promote a continuum of health and social services.
Mandatory Blood Testing Act, 2006
Establishes the provision for mandatory blood testing to determine the HIV/AIDS, hepatitis B or hepatitis C status of a person to whose bodily substances that an emergency service provider or victim of crime may have become exposed to.
Occupational Health and Safety Act, 1990
The objects of this act are to secure the rights of workers and the duties of employers and other persons.
Personal Health Information Protection Act, 2004
Outlines the parameters for the collection, use and disclosure of personal health information within the health care setting.
Public Hospitals Act, 1990
This legislation details the requirements for the administration of all publicly funded hospitals in Ontario. The Hospital Management Regulation (O. Reg 346/01) was established under this act.
Substitute Decisions Act, 1992
Describes the process for appointing a decision-maker for a patient who is determined to be incapable.
Federal Legislation
Controlled drugs and Substances Act, 1996 – Federal drug control statute.
Narcotics Control Regulation – Regulations respecting the control of narcotics.
Personal Information Protection and Electronic Documents Act, 2000
Protects personal information that is collected, used or disclosed in by electronic means.
