OAOMP Sanctions Explained for Ontario Osteopaths: From Warning to Expulsion

How the OAOMP Handles Complaints: The Association Framework

The OAOMP handles complaints through its own professional conduct process, governed by its bylaws and code of professional ethics. Unlike RHPA colleges, the OAOMP process does not involve an Inquiries, Complaints and Reports Committee (ICRC) or a statutory Discipline Committee. The possible outcomes range from an informal resolution to full expulsion from the association.

Outcome	Membership Effect	Public Visibility
No action	No impact	Private
Written warning	File notation	Private — membership file
Conditions on membership	Membership requirements added	Internal
Required remediation / CPD	Membership requirements added	Internal
Suspension of membership	Designation suspended	May be communicated
Expulsion / termination	Membership removed	May be communicated

Ontario osteopaths can find relevant professional development at our professional development courses for Ontario osteopaths page.

Written Warnings and Informal Resolutions at the OAOMP

Not all OAOMP complaints result in formal sanctions. The association's complaints process typically begins with an assessment of whether the complaint falls within the OAOMP's jurisdiction and whether there is a basis for further action. At the early stage, possible outcomes include:

• No action. The complaint is assessed and determined not to require any further action — for example, because it does not relate to a matter within the OAOMP's remit, or because it is not substantiated.
• Informal resolution. The matter is resolved informally through clarification, an apology, or other agreed steps without formal sanctions being recorded.
• Written warning. A formal notation on your OAOMP membership file recording that your conduct fell below the required standard, with guidance on what is expected going forward. A written warning does not affect your membership status but is considered in any future complaint.

Even at this early stage, contact your professional liability insurer and legal counsel before preparing any written response to the OAOMP.

Conditions on Membership and Required Remediation

Where the OAOMP determines that formal requirements should be placed on your membership, the outcome may include conditions on membership or required remediation.

• Conditions on membership. Requirements placed on your continued membership — for example, practising only under supervision, completing specified CPD, or reporting to the OAOMP at intervals. Conditions are recorded on your membership file.
• Required remediation or CPD. A formal requirement to complete specific education or remediation within a set timeframe. Failure to complete required CPD may result in further sanction including suspension of membership.

Completing structured ethics and professional standards CPD demonstrates genuine commitment to improvement. Our Insight for Fitness to Practise and Reflection for Fitness to Practise courses provide documented CPD evidence that can support your position with the OAOMP.

Suspension of OAOMP Membership

Suspension of OAOMP membership is a significant outcome. It means you are not permitted to use the OAOMP designation or hold yourself out as an OAOMP member for the duration of the suspension.

Practical consequences of OAOMP membership suspension include:

• Loss of the right to use OAOMP professional designations and branding
• Potential impact on your professional liability insurance — contact your insurer immediately
• Impact on referral relationships with other regulated health professionals
• Possible notification to OAOMP members and, depending on the association's bylaws, communication to other professional associations

A suspension does not legally prevent you from practising manual therapy in Ontario, as osteopathy is not regulated under the RHPA. However, the practical and insurance consequences are significant. Seek legal advice promptly.

Expulsion from the OAOMP and Its Practice Consequences

Expulsion or termination of OAOMP membership is the most serious outcome the association can impose. It permanently removes your membership and your right to use OAOMP designations.

Consequences of OAOMP expulsion include:

• Permanent loss of OAOMP membership and designations
• Likely loss of professional liability insurance tied to OAOMP membership
• Loss of eligibility for referrals through OAOMP networks
• Potential impact on applications for membership in other osteopathic associations in Canada

Reinstatement After Expulsion

Whether reinstatement is possible after expulsion depends on the OAOMP's bylaws and the circumstances of the expulsion. Unlike RHPA colleges, there is no statutory reinstatement process. Any reinstatement application would be assessed entirely at the OAOMP's discretion. Consult a regulatory lawyer experienced in professional association matters before making any reinstatement approach.

Visibility and Insurance Implications of OAOMP Outcomes

The OAOMP does not maintain a public statutory register in the same way as RHPA regulatory colleges. However, OAOMP outcomes do have visibility and insurance consequences that Ontario osteopaths should understand clearly.

Outcome	Visibility	Insurance Impact
No action / informal resolution	Private	Typically none
Written warning	Membership file only	Typically none
Conditions on membership	Internal	May require disclosure to insurer
Required CPD / remediation	Internal	Typically none
Suspension of membership	May be communicated	Likely significant — notify insurer immediately
Expulsion / termination	May be communicated	Likely loss of coverage — notify insurer immediately

Because OAOMP membership is often a condition of professional liability insurance coverage for Ontario osteopaths, any sanction affecting membership standing should be reported to your insurer immediately. Do not wait until your policy renewal.

Key Resources for Ontario Osteopaths

• Ontario Association of Osteopathic Manual Practitioners (OAOMP) — The primary professional association for Ontario osteopaths. The OAOMP sets professional standards, a code of ethics, and CPD requirements for its members. Contact the OAOMP directly for information on complaints procedures and membership obligations.
• Canadian Federation of Osteopaths (CFO) — National federation representing Canadian osteopathic organisations.
• Canadian Osteopathic Association — National association for osteopathic professionals in Canada.

Frequently Asked Questions

Is manual osteopathy regulated under the RHPA in Ontario?

No. Manual osteopathy in Ontario is not regulated under the Regulated Health Professions Act, 1991 (RHPA). Ontario osteopaths belong to professional associations such as the OAOMP rather than a statutory regulatory college. This means the sanctions framework is that of a voluntary association, not a statutory regulator.

What is the most serious OAOMP sanction?

The most serious sanction available to the OAOMP is expulsion or termination of membership. This removes your right to use OAOMP designations and has serious implications for professional liability insurance and professional recognition.

Does an OAOMP sanction appear on a public register?

The OAOMP does not maintain a public statutory register in the same way as RHPA colleges. However, outcomes such as membership suspension or expulsion may be communicated to members and other professional associations, and will affect your insurance and professional standing.

Will an OAOMP sanction affect my professional liability insurance?

Yes. OAOMP membership is typically linked to professional liability insurance coverage for Ontario osteopaths. Suspension or expulsion may affect your insurance eligibility. Contact your professional liability insurer immediately if you become subject to OAOMP proceedings.

Can I still practise manual osteopathy after OAOMP expulsion?

Because manual osteopathy is not RHPA-regulated in Ontario, expulsion from the OAOMP does not legally prevent practice. However, you would not be permitted to use OAOMP designations, and your professional insurance and referral relationships may be significantly affected.

What CPD helps after an OAOMP complaint?

Ethics training, insight and reflection courses, and professional standards programmes are recognised as CPD evidence. Our Ensuring No Repeat of Misconduct, Insight for Fitness to Practise, and Reflection for Fitness to Practise courses provide structured Canadian CPD with certificates of completion.

Does an OAOMP sanction affect my ability to practise in another province?

OAOMP membership is Ontario-specific. Other provinces have their own osteopathic associations. An OAOMP sanction may be disclosed if you apply for membership in another provincial association. Seek advice from your professional liability insurer on cross-provincial implications.

What is the difference between a warning and a suspension at the OAOMP?

A written warning is a formal notation on your membership file recording that conduct fell below the required standard. A suspension removes your membership standing for a defined period, affecting your right to use OAOMP designations and potentially your insurance coverage.

Can I appeal an OAOMP disciplinary decision?

The OAOMP has its own internal appeals or review process set out in its bylaws. Unlike RHPA colleges, there is no statutory right of appeal to the Health Professions Appeal and Review Board. Review the OAOMP bylaws and consult legal counsel for advice on appeal options.

How does the OAOMP complaints process work?

The OAOMP handles complaints through its own professional conduct process governed by association bylaws. It typically involves a written complaint, an opportunity to respond, review by a committee, and a decision on what action, if any, to take. Unlike RHPA processes, this is not governed by statute.

Are OAOMP sanctions the same as RHPA sanctions?

No. RHPA sanctions are statutory outcomes that can affect your legal right to practise. OAOMP sanctions are association-level outcomes governed by the association's own bylaws. The legal and practical consequences differ significantly.

Should I get legal advice if facing an OAOMP proceeding?

Yes. Even as a voluntary association matter, the consequences of an adverse outcome — including loss of insurance coverage and professional recognition — can be significant. Contact your professional liability insurer and seek legal advice before responding to any OAOMP complaint.