This code applies to registered members of the I.M.T.A. 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.

1. THE DUTIES

These are the general principles that therapists need to observe in order to responsibly 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.

1. 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.
2. Members’ professional conduct towards their client is respectful of the dignity and integrity of the individual, as a whole person. Their beliefs and values must be taken into account. Empathy, care, trust and confidentiality are characteristics of a professional massage therapist.
3. A therapist should practice their profession with integrity and dignity.
4. The highest standards must be maintained in conduct, the care of the client and professional expertise.
5. The therapist owes loyalty to their client and should have regard for their wishes.
6. The therapist should not exploit their clients emotionally, physically, sexually or financially.
7. The therapist should neither claim nor guarantee to cure, nor should they prescribe medication.
8. Essential oils should not be introduced or prescribed by the therapist unless qualified to do so.
9. Members’ certificates and fee scale should be clearly displayed.
10. If a client is currently receiving medical treatment for a specific condition liaison between practitioner and the clients’ medical professional is advised.

2. THE OBLIGATIONS

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

THE THERAPIST IS REQUIRED

1. To comply with the law of the state or territory where the therapist practices.
2. To advise the Secretary of the Association immediately in the event of any police or governmental (including local government) inquiry into their practice.
3. To secure and maintain full indemnity insurance.
4. Not to treat or make a physical examination of a child under 16, except in the presence of a parent or guardian.
5. Not to disclose any information about a patient which comes to them through their professional relationship with the patient, except:
   1. where required to do so by rule of law; or
   2. in an emergency or other dangerous situation where, in the opinion of the therapist, the information may assist in the prevention or possible injury to the client or to another person; or
   3. where the client has consented to the nature and the extent of the disclosure.

3. CONDUCT

1. A therapist shall keep full records of all treatments of clients, including the following details;
   1. Name, address, telephone number and date of birth
   2. Essential details of medical history
   3. Dates of treatments
   4. Details of treatments
2. On deciding to retire or move practice, a therapist must inform all clients of their intention to do so and of any arrangements being made for the transfer of the practice to another therapist. It is recommended that records should be kept for a minimum of five years.
3. A therapist may not in public, nor to a client, disparage or speak disrespectfully of a fellow therapist.
4. Where a therapist has good reason to believe a fellow therapist has committed misconduct or has any complaint whatsoever about them, a confidential report should be made to the Irish Massage Therapists Association. The therapist concerned will be informed by the Secretary.
5. Dress should be clean and appropriate for the professional practice of a massage therapist.
6. Premises should be a professional standard and should be kept, along with all equipment, in a serviceable and hygienic condition.

4. ADJUDICATION

The Executive Committee of the Association, sitting as a professional purpose sub-committee, shall advise upon conduct and adjudicate upon matters concerning the skill, competence, qualification and conduct of massage therapists on the register.

1. The executive committee shall make a ruling.
2. An appeal may be made to the committee, following which the decision is final and binding.
3. Breach of Code of Ethics shall invalidate membership of the Irish Massage Therapists Association.

© Irish Massage Therapist Association - Revised 2008