Sunday, September 1, 2024

Update on the PSW Registry

The government is slowly releasing details of how the registry will work, and CLAC is closely monitoring these developments

What has been on the minds of many PSWs for the past couple of months is the Ontario government’s decision to introduce a PSW registry. The Health and Supportive Care Providers Oversight Authority (HSCPOA) will administer the registry on behalf of the government. It recently put on a webinar with an overview of what to expect.

6 Key Facts about the Registry

The registry will be an online database with publicly accessible information about every PSW in Ontario who elects to join. It will not include any personal information but will state if a PSW is active, inactive, suspended, or has limitations placed on them.
Initially, the registry will be voluntary, and no fees will be applied. PSWs will be able to work without being registered. It is possible that employers may, in future, opt to hire only registered PSWs.
All PSWs who elect to join the registry will be required to sign a code of ethics that confirms that they adhere to professional standards and that they are accountable to the HSCPOA.
Although in some ways the HSCPOA will function like the College of Nurses, the HSCPOA cannot protect the PSW title like the college protects the title of RPNs and RNs. Those not on the registry can still use the PSW title. Neither does the HSCPOA define or limit the PSW’s scope of practice.
A board of directors has been appointed to manage the registry. The board does not include any PSWs, but an advisory committee with PSW members will be formed to offer a PSW perspective to the board.
The registry will begin accepting applications in fall 2024.

As CLAC become aware of additional information about the registry, we will provide additional updates to you.

Update on the PSW Registry

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