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News
Release
Supporting Quality Care for Ontarians with Autism
August 13, 2019
Ontario
to consult on regulation of behavioural clinicians who provide autism therapy
TORONTO — Ontario is putting children, youth and vulnerable
people first by strengthening the oversight of behavioural clinicians who
provide Applied Behaviour Analysis (ABA), a therapy that primarily supports
people with autism. As recommended by experts and supported by families,
regulation of ABA behavioural clinicians will set standard expectations for
quality therapy across the province. Consultations on how best to implement
regulation are set to begin this fall.
“We are acting on the clear direction we’ve received from
experts and families of children with autism,” said Todd Smith, Minister
of Children, Community and Social Services. “Across Ontario, hundreds of
men and women go to work every day to help children and youth. Our commitment
is that behavioural clinicians will be regulated like other health
professionals.”
ABA therapy helps people with autism develop new life skills,
communications skills and social skills. By improving oversight of ABA
clinicians, the government is taking further action to improve outcomes for
children and youth with autism and others receiving this type of therapy.
Helping to ensure quality care from autism providers is part of Ontario’s
plan to help as many families as possible through redeveloping the Ontario
Autism Program.
“Parents who are choosing a behavioural clinician deserve
to have peace of mind knowing they are choosing from qualified
professionals,” said Smith.
The Ministry of Children, Community and Social Services, in
collaboration with the Ministry of Health, will begin consultations with key
stakeholders to seek feedback on the oversight framework.
Oversight and regulation of ABA behavioural clinicians will
result in:
Consistency in ethics and professional standards to
promote a higher level of trust between families and practitioners.
Clearly defined educational and ongoing quality
assurance requirements for clinicians to improve consistency in
treatment.
A mechanism for families to report complaints about
providers to reduce the risk of harm.
“Our government is building a modern, sustainable and
connected service system that supports children and youth with autism and
their families,” said Christine Elliott, Deputy Premier and Minister of
Health. “With the advice of key stakeholders, we are taking necessary
steps to improve the care that families are receiving and ensure that they
have continued confidence in their service providers.”
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