September 21, 2021

Cancellation of the Virtual Clinical Exam

On September 14, 2021, the College of Physiotherapists of Manitoba was made aware that the Board of Directors of the Canadian Alliance of Physiotherapy Regulators made the decision to cancel the virtual clinical component of the Physiotherapy Competency Examination (PCE) due to ongoing difficulties with launching a virtual exam. As of this announcement date, all scheduled dates for the clinical exam are cancelled.

The Council and College is very disappointed with this latest development and the multiple cancellations that have occurred with the clinical examination. We understand that this cancellation adds another layer to an already stressful situation for both Examination Candidates, their families and the physiotherapy community at large.

We extend our sincere apologies to the candidates who we know have worked diligently to prepare for the exam, not once but several times. The ongoing issues and cancellations are unacceptable. Council remains committed to registering Examination Candidates for independent practice as soon as possible.

Since the announcement was made, Council and the Board of Assessors (the registration committee of CPM) has held emergency meetings to look at options to this situation

• We have consulted with government on amending our Regulations.
• We have looked at options for finding an alternative exam.
• We have considered options for licensing if an Examination Candidate has been under supervision for an extended period of time.
• Legal Counsel of the College has been consulted.

All of these options are being discussed at the moment and Council will need to decide the best solution, at which time, they will announce the road forward.

The Board of Assessors will continue to extend the license of those on the Examination Candidate Register.

The College will do our best to answer your questions and concerns and provide an update as it becomes available.