MM Chapter 06: Ethics and the Law

E. Other Legal Issues

A therapist must understand some key legal terms and issues to practice massage in a regulated state. These issues include exemptions to the law, reciprocity, grandfathering provisions, and HIPAA regulations. Liability insurance and zoning restrictions are discussed in Chapter 9. Exemptions to the Law An exemption from the law is permission not to do something […]

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D. Supervision of Massage

A board of massage is usually appointed in states that regulate massage to supervise the practice of massage by reviewing therapist applications, investigating complaints, and overseeing licensees who practice in the state. Sometimes massage is governed by another health care board, such as the nursing board or board of chiropractic examiners.  Each state board of

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C. Scope of Practice

The term scope of practice is used by regulating boards of health care professions to describe the techniques, activities, and methods that are permitted to a therapist under the law. While most states define the scope of practice for massage in similar terms, small variations require therapists to carefully inspect and understand the scope of

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B. Massage Credentials

Massage credentials are bestowed by a state or local authority to demonstrate that an individual has met the education and testing requirements to legally practice massage. The term “licensed,” “registered,” or “certified” may be used depending on the state. Licensure A license is a printed, state-issued document that gives a person official permission to practice

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K. Maintain the Highest Standards of Professional Conduct

Ethical Principle: The Code of Ethics for the AMTA states that a therapist will “Conduct all business and professional activities within their scope of practice, the law of the land, and project a professional image.” Standard of Conduct: Therapists will maintain clear and honest communication with clients and make their file available upon request. Refrain

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I. Sexual Conduct Is Unethical

Ethical Principle: The Code of Ethics for NCBTMB states, “Refrain, under all circumstances, from initiating or engaging in any sexual conduct, sexual activities, or sexualizing behavior involving a client, even if the client attempts to sexualize the relationship.” Standard of Conduct: Therapists should understand behaviors considered sexual conduct and uphold the highest professional standards regarding

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H. Practice Confidentiality

Ethical Principle: The AMTA Code of Ethics states, “Acknowledge the confidential nature of the professional relationship with clients and respect each client’s right to privacy.” Standard of Practice: The therapist will keep client communication and information confidential within the limits of the law. The therapist will not share client information, even with other health care

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G. Informed Consent

Ethical Principle: The NCBTMB states, “Respect the client’s right to treatment with informed and voluntary consent. The practitioner will obtain and record the informed consent of the client, or client’s advocate, before providing treatment.” Standard of Practice: The therapist will fully inform clients of choices relating to their care and disclose policies and limitations that

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