COVID-19
It is clear that our country is at a pivotal point in the containment of COVID-19. This is an unprecedented event which has been extremely stressful for Massage Therapists across the country.
The Canadian Massage Therapist Alliance (CMTA) has been carefully following the information being provided by the federal government, provincial health ministries and our five regulatory colleges.
This is an ever-evolving situation. At this time, it is important to heed the advice of Canada’s Chief Public Health Officer, Dr. Theresa Tam who has called for social distancing and practicing proper hygiene. In depth recommendations regarding both can be found on the Public Health Agency of Canada’s COVID-19 website.
Based on the current information provided by the Government of Canada and provincial public health officials, it is strongly recommended that all non-essential massage therapy be suspended. Professional judgement should be used in the determination of what is deemed essential for the client.
Massage therapists who continue to provide treatment should implement the following practices to help in the prevention of transmission of COVID-19.
Begin screening clients on the phone prior to scheduling and appointment.
Post signage within the clinic and at the door so that clients with symptoms identify themselves.
Self isolate for 14 days if you have been outside of Canada
Stay home should you develop any symptoms
Practice rigorous inflection prevention
Therapists are encouraged to check the following:
Public Health Agency of Canada’s Coronavirus (COVID-19) website
Their Provincial Ministry of Health
Municipal public health units
Over the coming days. the CMTA and our member Associations will be contacting the Federal and the appropriate Provincial Minsters of Finance along with other government officials regarding financial and other supports RMTs may have access to as we collectively deal with the impact of the COVID-19 Pandemic.
We at the CMTA will be updating our website as information is made available.