Irish Massage Therapists Association

Code of Ethics

This code applies to registered members of the IMTA. Its purpose is to establish and maintain standards for the practice of massage therapy, and to inform and protect members of the public seeking massage therapy treatment.

THE DUTIES:

These are the general principles that therapists need to observe in order to fulfil their calling. To ignore these would imply a lack of regard for the needs of the patient and the reputation of massage therapy and the Irish Massage Therapists association:

v In general, members should endeavour to act in such a manner as to inspire public trust and confidence, uphold and enhance the good standing and reputation of the massage therapy profession and, above all, safeguard the interests of the client.

v Members’ professional conduct towards their client is respectful of the dignity and integrity of the individual as a whole person, whose beliefs and values must be taken into account: empathy, care, trust and confidentiality are characteristics of a professional massage therapist.

v A therapist should practise his/her profession with integrity and dignity.

v The highest standards must be maintained in conduct, the care of the client and professional expertise.

v The therapist owes loyalty to his/her client and should have regard for his/her wishes.

v The therapist should not exploit his/her clients emotionally, physically, sexually or financially.

v The therapist should neither claim nor guarantee to cure, nor should he prescribe medication.

v Essential oils should not be introduced or prescribed by the therapist unless qualified to do so.

v Members’ certificates and fee scale should be clearly displayed.

v If a client is currently receiving medical treatment for a specific condition liaison between practitioner and the client’s medical professional is advised.

THE OBLIGATIONS:

These are the restrictions and regulations which the Association must impose upon its members for legal and professional purposes.

The Therapist is required:

v To comply with the law of the State or territory where the therapist practises.

v To advise the secretary of the Association immediately in the event of any police or governmental (including local government) inquiry into his/her practice.

v To secure and maintain full indemnity insurance.

v Not to treat or make physical examination of a child under 16, except in the presence of a parent or guardian.

v Not to disclose any information about a patient which comes to the therapist through his/her professional relationship with the patient, except:

where required to do so by law,

in an emergency or other dangerous situation where, in the opinion of the therapist, the information may assist in prevention of possible injury to the client or to another person, or

where the client has consented to the nature and extent of the disclosure.

The full text may be obtained on request from the Secretary of the Association