Strategic Direction (2026–2030)
Four Strategic Outcomes:
The CRTO earns and sustains the confidence of Ontarians through regulation that is transparent, compassionate, and grounded in the public interest. Members of the public experience respectful, timely, and clear communication from the College, and they understand the value and expectations of both the profession and the regulator. Public trust in both the regulator and the profession is strengthened as the CRTO consistently demonstrates integrity, responsiveness, and a commitment to safe, high-quality care.
The CRTO is a credible and relevant partner throughout the professional lifecycle of every respiratory therapist. Members experience the College as a supportive and fair regulator, one that balances accountability with guidance, learning, and professional growth. Through clear standards, modern quality assurance, and compassionate engagement, the CRTO supports Members in practicing safely, ethically, and to their full scope. The relationship between the CRTO and its Members is characterized by mutual respect and a shared commitment to serving the public interest.
The CRTO provides government and policymakers with reliable knowledge, evidence, and insights on respiratory therapy practice. The College demonstrates accountability and effectiveness, reinforcing confidence in the regulatory model and its value to Ontarians. By offering informed perspectives on professional scope, mobility, and workforce planning, the CRTO supports the modernization of the health system. By anticipating emerging risks and opportunities, the College helps shape policies that enhance public protection and improve system efficiency.
The CRTO is an engaged, collaborative, and impactful leader in regulatory and system reform. The College works with other regulators and partners across the health system to advance consistency, share data and insights, and promote innovation. It contributes to harmonized standards, proportionate risk-based approaches, and interprofessional collaboration. The CRTO is recognized as a constructive, forward-thinking partner helping shape a regulatory environment that supports safe, integrated, and responsive care for Ontarians.
Strategic Imperatives (Enablers for Success):
Foster Collaboration and System Leadership
Collaboration with partners will strengthen the CRTO’s impact and alignment across the regulatory and health landscape.
- Strengthen relationships with government, Health Profession Regulators of Ontario (HPRO), and national counterparts.
- Engage in interprofessional and system-level initiatives to address emerging workforce and policy challenges.
- Provide expertise and guide the development of ideas on compassionate, proportionate, and right-touch regulation.
Embed Compassionate and Transparent Regulation
The CRTO will integrate trauma-informed, culturally safe, and relationship-focused approaches into all its regulatory processes.
- Strengthen staff and Council training on compassionate regulation.
- Ensure decisions, communications, and policies reflect fairness, clarity, and respect.
- Develop processes that support Members and the public, while enhancing public awareness through regulatory interactions.
Evolve Professional Scope and Competence
Regulation must evolve alongside the profession and meet changing public needs and expectations.
- Develop agile quality assurance mechanisms that reflect the realities of modern practice.
- Support Members’ ability to work to full scope across diverse practice settings.
- Monitor system changes and adjust standards proactively to uphold safety and quality.
Integrate Equity, Diversity, Inclusion, Accessibility, and Reconciliation
EDI and reconciliation principles will shape CRTO’s governance, operations, and regulatory practices.
- Embed anti-racism and cultural safety in standards, communications, and policy frameworks.
- Create inclusive processes that welcomes diverse perspectives and experiences.
- Build partnerships with equity-seeking communities to guide continuous improvement.
Advance Digital and Data Capability
Modern technology and secure information management will be foundational to effective regulation.
- Continue strengthening of IT infrastructure and cybersecurity systems to ensure reliability and privacy.
- Leverage data analytics for insight-driven, risk-based decision-making.
- Streamline workflows to improve efficiency, transparency, and responsiveness.
Ensure Organizational Excellence and Agility
Strong governance and operational discipline will sustain CRTO’s effectiveness and readiness for change.
- Maintain and strengthen governance effectiveness through Council education and role clarity.
- Apply continuous improvement and risk management principles to all operations.