In a city of 50,328, there is no shortage of massage therapists in the metropolis of Invercargill. Health consumers here do not lack choice rather the challenging decision of selecting one.
Did you know anyone can call themselves a massage therapist? Legally, there is no minimum qualifications, health and disability code, police vetting or code of conduct requirements to start trading. Are you surprised the massage profession and industry as a whole is unregulated?
The Variables
By the way, how does one navigate through listed and unlisted, registered and unregistered massage therapists? Does one get more bang for their bucks with the highest qualification holders? Practices that are located on commercial premises, are they “more” professional in comparison to residential based clinics operating from a dedicated space? Some experienced professionals in the field may answer, not necessarily.
A Safe Bet
You may wonder what difference does it make whether a therapist is registered or otherwise. Registered massage therapists are members of their self – regulated professional body. That means they uphold high professional and ethical standards when dealing with their clients and the general public.
Furthermore, these therapists work within their scope of practice and make referrals to other allied health professionals as necessary. Assuredly, all members abide by Massage New Zealand (MNZ) Code of Ethics and the Health and Disability Commissioner’s Code of Rights.
The Client Wins
Firstly, some members enter this profession from other related health professions. They can transfer their skills-set. I took up a new career in healthcare and was a registered nurse previously.
Secondly, all MNZ members have undertaken and complete formal education at their chosen/appropriate levels. They have achieved industry-approved competence. Thus, the New Zealand Qualification Authority (NZQA) recognises their qualifications.
Thirdly, MNZ undoubtedly assesses all overseas qualifications via the Recognised Prior Learning (RPL) process.
And Wins again
Unquestionably, registered massage therapists incorporate “best practice” at their clinics (appropriate to the client’s condition and circumstances) and are committed to ongoing learning. Hence, members remain current in their knowledge, massage research, practice and industry developments. Besides, they are required to attend 20 hours of Professional Development annually at their own expense and resources.
Have you booked an appointment with a registered massage therapist yet? Here is where to look: www,massagenewzealand.org.nz
# Registered Massage Therapists # In Save Hands # Professional and Qualified # High Standards
Back