Peer Assessment
The peer assessment is a mandatory component of CMTO’s Quality Assurance (QA) program.
The objective of a peer assessment is to assist Registered Massage Therapists (RMTs/MTs) in making informed judgments about their professional practice, with the ultimate goal of identifying ways to improve and maintain quality of care.
Designed to connect RMTs with another RMT who has been trained by CMTO (i.e., a peer assessor), RMTs are randomly selected to participate in the peer assessment process. In some instances, the Quality Assurance Committee may choose to direct an RMT to undergo a peer assessment as a result of not fulfilling professional obligations.
Following the assessment, the peer assessor prepares a report that is submitted to CMTO. Results are reviewed and brought to the Quality Assurance Committee if further action is required.
The Peer Assessment Process
RMTs selected for a peer assessment will receive notification by email from CMTO. After, the assigned peer assessor will contact the RMT to arrange an agreeable time for the peer assessment.
Using the Standards of Practice as a guide, the peer assessor visits the RMT’s place of work to tour the facilities, conduct a review of client records, and engage in a conversation with the RMT to discuss findings, provide recommendations and answer questions.
Typically, a peer assessment is completed within three hours. It is important that the RMT be available for the entire peer assessment.
The Role of the Peer Assessor
The role of the peer assessor is to support the success of RMTs in applying the Standards of Practice and other requirements for safe and ethical practice.
While peer assessors are provided special authority under legislation, all peer assessors are bound by confidentiality agreements that restrict the sharing of information to CMTO and the Quality Assurance Committee.
Possible Outcomes of Peer Assessment
After reviewing the outcome of a peer assessment, CMTO, and in some cases the Quality Assurance Committee, may decide to:
- Make recommendations to the RMT about practice improvements;
- Give the RMT an opportunity to correct any deficiencies identified in the assessment report;
- Direct the RMT to complete a remedial or refresher course;
- Direct the RMT to obtain any other assistance it feels would be appropriate; or
- Take no further action.
