What is a physiatrist?

Physiatrists are physicians who specialize in physical medicine and rehabilitation, a medical specialty that deals with the evaluation and treatment of patients whose functional abilities have been impaired. The disabilities and impairments may result from injuries or diseases such as stroke, neuromuscular disorders, musculoskeletal disorders, cardiopulmonary diseases, arthritis, peripheral vascular disease, cerebral palsy and others. The physiatrist can help to improve a person’s functional capabilities by medical treatment and organizing and integrating a program of rehabilitation therapy such as physical, occupational, speech therapies, psychological, social nursing, prosthetic, orthotic, engineering and vocational services.

– This definition comes from the Association of Academic Physiatrists.

Finding a Physiatrist

Getting an appointment with a physiatrist requires a referral from your family physician, who is best suited to determine your need for this type of specialist. If you would like to research physiatrists in your area, you may contact the College of Physicians and Surgeons of your province for a list of specialists in physical medicine and rehabilitation (physiatrists). Physicians will be listed as they must obtain a license to practice in a province from the Provincial Colleges.

Alberta

The College of Physicians & Surgeons of Alberta

British Columbia

The College of Physicians & Surgeons of British Columbia

Manitoba

The College of Physicians & Surgeons of Manitoba.

New Brunswick

College of Physicians & Surgeons of New Brunswick.

Newfoundland / Labrador

The College of Physicians & Surgeons of Newfoundland and Labrador.

Nova Scotia

The College of Physicians & Surgeons of Nova Scotia

Ontario

The College of Physicians & Surgeons of Ontario

Prince Edward Island

The College of Physicians & Surgeons of Prince Edward Island

Quebec

Collège des médecins du Québec

Saskatchewan

College of Physicians & Surgeons of Saskatchewan

Yukon

Yukon Medical Council

Government of Nunavut

Professional Licensing, Dept. of Health and Social Services, Tel: (867) 982-7668

Government of Northwest Territories

Medical Profession, Safety and Public Services, Tel: (403) 920-8058