PROVINCIAL governments across Canada are working to reduce barriers to internal trade and labour mobility. In Ontario, the government is committed to eliminating barriers to the registration of qualified individuals so that Ontarians have easier access to the “connected and convenient care they need and deserve.”
What CDO is doing to facilitate labour mobility
As part of our 2025-29 Strategic Plan, the College of Dietitians of Ontario is working closely with system partners to support accessible pathways for dietitians to enter and grow within the profession. CDO is committed to registering as many qualified dietitians as possible — professionals who have the knowledge, skills, and judgment to deliver safe, ethical and competent dietetic services. We will also simplify our processes to reduce administrative barriers and enhance accessibility to entry to practice in the public interest.
In recent years, CDO has introduced several initiatives aimed at reducing barriers, including updated standards and guidelines (e.g., virtual care), registration policy (e.g., emergency registration) and, most recently, registration regulations to streamline the registration requirements. In 2024, the CDO Board of Directors approved a new position statement on interjurisdictional practice, which provides an exception to continuity of care, allowing for virtual dietetic services to be provided under some circumstances.
Looking forward to labour mobility regulations
The Ontario government is implementing new “As of Right” regulations that will make it easier for health care professionals from other parts of Canada to practise in Ontario without delays. The Protect Ontario Through Free Trade Within Canada Act, 2025 received Royal Assent on June 5, 2025. The province is now consulting with system partners, including the College of Dietitians of Ontario, on how best to implement the principles of the legislation.
The new framework will increase labour mobility for regulated health professions, including dietitians. We look forward to building upon the current momentum throughout the consultation and planning phase as we continue to focus on our vision of a healthier Ontario through excellence in dietetic regulation.
