OLTCA's Administrator Certification

Ontario Long Term Care Association’s Administrators’ Certification Program is one of the options individials may use to become an Administrator in Long Term Care. OLTCA’s program provides individuals who have significant relevant experience and education with formal recognition as a Long Term Care Facility Administrator. This designation is accepted by the Ontario Ministry of Health and Long Term Care in meeting the licensing requirements of the Nursing Homes Act.

How was OLTCA Program Developed?

OLTCA’s Administrators’ Certification Program (ACP) was developed in conjunction with the Ministry of Health and Long Term Care, the Canadian Healthcare Association and the University of Toronto over 20 years ago. In 1998 the Program was revised to include a continued education component as a prerequisite for maintaining status under the program. This change reflected OLTCA’s commitment to continued education and professional development in the long term care sector.

For initial certification, applicants must complete and submit an application package, which includes required supporting documentation, along with the appropriate fee to OLTCA. If the program criteria are met, certification is awarded for a three year period.

How does the Program Work?

Recertification is required every three years in order to maintain status under the program. To be recertified the applicant must submit an application form, along with the appropriate fee, demonstrating that they have met the continued education criteria to be recertified. Although OLTCA issues a reminder notice it is the responsibility of the Administrator to maintain their status through OLTCA’s recertification program.

What is required to apply for initial certification?

A candidate must submit an application package to OLTCA with the required documentation set out in the package. The application package is scored on a points system with points awarded for:

1. Formal experience
2. Professional Activities
3. Health & Social Services
4. Formal education (post high school certificate, diploma, degree programs)
5. Professional designations 6. Other Education (courses, workshops, conferences)

Certification is awarded if the applicant scores at least 65 points. Additional information on the allocation of points is contained in the application form.

What is required for re-certification?

OLTCA’s program requires that Administrators continue their education and upgrade their skills. A reminder letter is sent prior to the expiration of a certificate. Although OLTCA issues a reminder notice it is the responsibility of the Administrator to maintain their status. To maintain certification, the Administrator must have accumulated at least 30 points for participation and continued education in the three year period immediately preceding recertification.

Participation points are awarded for involvement in professional organizations; other relevant activities such as participation on OLTCA and health care related Boards/Committees/Task Forces. Continued education points are awarded for relevant courses/programs from a university, college, or other recognized institutions; workshops/seminars; individual courses.

Initial Certification Form
OLTCA Members $50.00 
Non-OLTCA Members $75.00 
Maintenance Certification Form
OLTCA Members $50.00 
Non-OLTCA Members $75.00

Download a copy of the OLTCA Administrators' Certification Program Brochure