Peer and Practice Assessment FAQ

The College of Dietitians of Ontario (CDO) Quality Assurance (QA) program supports Registered Dietitians (RDs) in maintaining their continuing competence and fostering quality improvement through education and assessment. We will prioritize new areas of dietetic knowledge and areas of practice posing the highest risk to the public.

The College’s PPA process is part of the QA program, as required by legislation. It offers a structured opportunity for RDs to demonstrate their knowledge, skills, and judgment according to professional standards, helping them identify areas for growth and enhancing their quality of practice

  1. What is the Peer and Practice Assessment (PPA)?

The PPA is an educational and supportive process designed to help dietitians reflect on and enhance their practice. It provides constructive feedback to support professional growth and continuous learning and improvement.

  1. What’s new about the PPA?

We’ve redesigned the PPA based on registrant feedback and evidence-informed practices. Key changes include:

  • A fully virtual format
  • A risk-based selection process using practice indicators
  • The removal of multi-source feedback surveys
  • A focus on self-reflective practice and peer-supported chart reviews
  • Updated Behaviour-Based Interview (BBI) questions aligned with new competencies

This updated process supports professional growth while maintaining public protection.

  1. How are dietitians selected to participate?

Registrants are selected through a combination of random sampling and a risk-stratified approach based on practice indicators. These indicators help identify areas where the assessment can have the greatest impact and benefit assure. Selection does not imply a dietitian is “high risk”; rather, it means certain practice indicators are present in their practice. 

  1. What are practice indicators?

Practice indicators are data points—such as practice setting, years of experience, or changes in practice—that may reflect potential risk in practice. They inform the selection process, helping the College focus resources where they’re most needed to support quality care. Dietitians with more practice indicators may benefit from an assessment to reflect on and refine their practice. However, being selected does not mean there are no concerns about competency.

  1. When will I know if I’ve been selected?

Selected RDs will be notified by email in spring. The assessment period will run between June and September.

  1. What does the assessment involve?

Selected RDs will complete a pre-assessment questionnaire and engage in a virtual discussion with a trained peer assessor. This process is supportive and collegial, encouraging insight and development.

  1. Will my results be shared with my employer?

No. PPA results are confidential. All information collected is kept confidential between the College’s Quality Assurance Program and the RD. The RD is not obligated to share their results or the outcome of the assessment with their employer. The College will not advise the employer of a RD’s participation. Only the Quality Assurance staff and the Quality Assurance Committee review assessment outcomes.

  1. What support is available if I have questions?

The College’s Professional Practice – Quality Assurance is here to help. You can contact us at any point in the process for clarification, support, or resources.

For additional information, please review the PPA Handbook regarding the process.

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