Susan Robarts has over 20 years experience as a clinician and researcher in complex orthopaedics. She earned her BHSc Physiotherapy degree from McMaster University (Summa cum laude) after completing a BSc degree in Psychology (Magna cum laude). She worked in the Mushkegowuk Territory for several years and went on to complete graduate studies in Rehabilitation from Queen’s University earning her MSc while developing and securing funding for community-based rehabilitation in 6 remote Cree communities.

She then went on to create and lead the development of novel advanced practice roles for physiotherapists at a large academic teaching hospital in Toronto, which became an award-winning model of care, reducing wait times and improving orthopaedic care. She was a Clinical Supervisor of the advanced practice team for over 15 years and an instructor in graduate-level physiotherapy programs. Susan also co-led the expansion of the award-winning model of care across Ontario, culminating in over 50 sites with over 100 advanced practice physiotherapy positions.

Susan has co-authored over 25 publications in peer reviewed journals and presented results of research nationally and internationally. She has served on the Board of Directors of the Ontario Physiotherapy Association for 2 terms, advocating for physiotherapists to be part of every patient’s healthcare team and that physiotherapists work to full scope of practice which includes ordering imaging and laboratory tests.

Susan’s own journey with breast cancer led her to opening her physiotherapy studio with the goal of helping other women move through cancer and thrive. She is a Certified Lymphedema Therapist (LANA-approved program), Strength After Breast Cancer Instructor, and Bonefit-trained for the management of osteoporosis (Osteoporosis Canada). She is an avid life-long learner.

Susan’s clinical skillset and innovative research has been recognized with the following awards: Sunnybrook Health Sciences Centre Schulich Award for Clinical Excellence, Ministry of Health and Long-Term Care ACE Award – Achievement, Commitment, Excellence, the 3M Healthcare Quality Team Award, the Sunnybrook Marilyn Reddick Team Award and the Weeneebayko Hospital-Mushkegowuk Territory merit award for Outstanding Achievement. Susan was recently named Queen’s University Distinguished Alumnae in the School of Rehabilitation. 

Susan lives in the country with her husband and rescue beagle named Brio. You might see her shamelessly doing calisthenics on her walk along Kempenfelt Bay because that’s what makes her happy.              

Fun fact: Susan is also a Professional Chocolatier and supports local charity events with small-batch artisan chocolate. Follow @joychocolate_ca. 😊