An update to Massage Therapy Practises during the global COVID-19 pandemic

Hello all,

As we ease into a decrease and elimination of restrictions at the moment within Nova Scotia I wanted to update everyone on the recent protocols announced by the Massage Therapists Association of Nova Scotia (MTANS) in conjunction with the Department of Health.

We see the current trend showing a decrease in the severity of the COVID-19 virus at current with Omicron and its variants. This means many are sick, but not in need of healthcare intervention. With the supposed decrease that would bring in our hospitals, the government has decided to end most restrictions within our province. In consultation with MTANS, we have as of today some new protocols to follow for those within our association.

As an update, masks are no longer mandatory for massage therapy clientele. As a mobile massage therapist, I do not expect my clients to always wear masks, to begin within their own settings. I do not anticipate this to change. Please keep in mind masks will remain optional for you as my clients. I have a supply of procedural masks available should you want one. It is your home, and your comfort is paramount for me.

As a therapist "The MTANS continues to recommend that massage therapists follow the guidelines of Public Health, including the use of masks. Given the highly infectious nature of Covid-19, it is recommended that healthcare workers providing direct patient care continue to wear a surgical/procedural mask at all times and in all areas of the workplace if they are involved in direct patient contact or cannot maintain adequate physical distancing from patients and co-workers." (MTANS COVID-19 Protocol Phase 3, page 5). This means I will continue to mask as required in necessary settings- if you want me to wear a mask, I will happily do so for your comfort and safety.

My cleaning procedures will continue at the moment. That means I will continue to do all necessary things to keep you and your environment safe. This includes cleaning and disinfecting of the table and supplies between clients, deep cleaning of all equipment on a regular basis (all with authorized cleaners set by Health Canada), cleaning and laundering of all sheets and linens in hot water with non-scented detergent and bleach solution as necessary, laundering of my own clothing after every set of treatments (I dress comfortably most of the time due to all the laundering of my clothing. I do not as most of you know do a uniform anymore, as that became too expensive at the start of this pandemic to maintain), and of course my own personal hygiene.

I will continue to screen for COVID-19 before treatments as necessary, including but not limited to, forms and waivers. This protects me and my insurance, as well as yourself, from any liability that may arise from treatments.

Please, please, PLEASE, continue to alert me if there is any chance you are ill or suffering from any contagious illness, COVID or not, as I provide for many immunocompromised people, including myself. I am rather 'loose' with my booking policy. If you are sick, you will not be penalized. I stand by that. Many of you also know that I have been very open with you in regards to my own illnesses and I cancel or reschedule massage as necessary to protect each other. This will not change. Should I have an exposure or symptoms, you will be the first to know (well, ok, I may call my mom and whine some and then order hot soup on uber eats).

Overall, these requirements are necessary for those practicing massage therapy today. As a mobile massage therapist, I am subject to slightly different risks: "Providing care in patient’s homes has the potential for elevated risk due to the variability of the environments in which the care is provided and the relative lack of control the care provider has when compared to a clinic setting. Largely, the requirements for in-home care are consistent with the clinic setting." (MTANS COVID-19 Protocol Phase 3, page 6).

Thank you again for trusting me with your health and continuing to do our part to keep each other and those around us safe. A link to the aforementioned MTANS document will be posted below.

Any questions or comments are always welcome. Please feel free to send me off an email. For any additional information regarding MTANS and their procedures, or questions you may have about the organization, you can find that info at https://mtans.in1touch.org/ .

-Dylan.

MTANS COVID-19 Protocol Phase 3 - March 15 2022.pdf

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