The Ontario Northern Outreach Program in physical therapy.

The Northern Outreach Program (NOP) in Ontario, Canada was initiated in 1980 by the Health Sciences Faculties at The University of Western Ontario and the Ontario Ministry of Health. Objectives of the NOP are to contribute to development of health services and health manpower in Northern Ontario and to develop supportive research programs. NOP Coordinators are appointed to their respective faculties from each of the following disciplines: Communicative Disorders, Library Science, Nursing, Occupational Therapy, and Physical Therapy (PT). PT coordinators identify needs and opportunities for development of PT service and manpower in the North, collaborating with District Health Councils and health professionals. Programs are developed considering the areas of service, manpower, education, and research. Programs include workshops, consultations, student clinical placements, and access to library resources. An external evaluation of the NOP was carried out and ongoing evaluation of the PT program is based on feedback from program participants. The NOP has been effective in supporting development of PT services in Northern Ontario, decreasing professional isolation and also serves as a model for other programs. Alternatives for recruitment and retention of manpower and research opportunities must continue to be developed to ensure optimal delivery of health care to underserviced areas.