FROM THE REGISTRAR ’ S DESK
and Preventing Sexual Abuse policy .
Psychotherapy practice is unique , particularly in regard to the depth and nature of the dependency and the degree of trust involved . This practice may include frequent visits , disclosure of highly personal or intimate information and protracted care . Emotional dependence on the physician is significant and risk of harm is substantial if boundary violations occur . Those choosing to practise psychotherapy are expected to understand the inherent risks of such therapy such as transference and countertransference and to be able to respond appropriately .
It is important to note that Council ’ s draft regulation speaks to instances in which mandatory revocation would be authorized . The Discipline Committee would however , retain its ability to impose revocation on a discretionary basis in other instances . For example , should the Discipline Committee find a physician engaged in a sexual relationship with a former psychotherapeutic patient six years after termination , the Committee would have the discretion to order revocation if appropriate to the circumstances .
The enactment of our proposed regulation requires government participation and approval . We will work with the new government to develop concurrent consultation plans and keep you in the loop regarding all changes .
*** As many of you already know , physicians who
wish to prescribe methadone no longer require a federal exemption . Previously , physicians were required to be formally exempt from the Controlled Drugs and Substances Act in order to prescribe the medication ( section 56 ).
Even though the requirement to obtain an exemption has been lifted , the College ’ s expectation in the near term is that physicians who choose to enter this area of practice will first ensure that they have the appropriate knowledge and training . Methadone is an important tool in the treatment of both pain and opioid use disorder , but it is not without its risks . In recognition of the public safety risk that methadone represents if not prescribed appropriately for opioid disorder , the College will continue to expect physicians to receive training , be assessed , notify the College of their intention to prescribe methadone , and adhere to the Methadone Maintenance Treatment Program ’ s Standards and Clinical Guidelines . For more detailed information please read page 34 .
Over the next few months , the College will be looking closely at our longer term approach to oversight of opioid prescribing more generally . And methadone prescribing , in light of this changing environment , will be a part of our work . We will continue to update you on developments in this area .
*** On a different note , I ’ d like to thank the
many assessors who made our biannual assessor conference such a success with their enthusiasm and commitment to doing the best job possible in providing guidance to their peers . More than 500 participants attended the two-day event to share their experiences , discuss how to enhance the assessment experience for physicians , and listen to some guest speakers . It was a truly energizing event and I thank everyone for their contribution .
*** By the time , you receive this magazine in the
mail , our new Registrar , Dr . Nancy Whitmore , will have arrived at the College ( effective June 4 , 2018 ). Some of you will have the opportunity to personally meet Dr . Whitmore and I know that she will work hard through Dialogue and many other means to engage with physicians and the public in the coming months . MD
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DIALOGUE ISSUE 2 , 2018