The CMTO’s standards of practice are a set of rules and expectations that regulate the practice of massage therapy in Ontario. They are designed to protect the public interest and ensure that registered massage therapists (RMTs) provide safe, ethical, and competent care to their clients.

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The standards of practice cover various aspects of massage therapy, such as:

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• Acupuncture: RMTs who perform acupuncture must have the necessary knowledge, skills, and judgment to do so safely and effectively. They must also follow the specific requirements for acupuncture, such as obtaining informed consent, using sterile needles, and keeping accurate records1.

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• Client-centred care: RMTs must respect the dignity, rights, and preferences of their clients. They must also involve their clients in the assessment, treatment plan, and evaluation of the massage therapy services. They must provide clear and accurate information to their clients and support their decision-making1.

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• Collaboration and professional relationships: RMTs must work collaboratively with their clients, colleagues, and other health care professionals. They must communicate effectively, respect boundaries, and resolve conflicts in a constructive way. They must also refer their clients to other health care providers when appropriate1.

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• Communication: RMTs must communicate with their clients and others in a respectful, courteous, and professional manner. They must use clear and appropriate language, listen actively, and respond to feedback. They must also document their communication in a timely and accurate way1.

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• Conflict of interest: RMTs must avoid situations that may compromise their professional judgment or integrity. They must not exploit their relationship with their clients for personal or financial gain. They must also disclose any potential or actual conflicts of interest to their clients and take steps to resolve them1.

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• Consent: RMTs must obtain informed consent from their clients before providing any massage therapy services. They must explain the benefits, risks, alternatives, and costs of the services. They must also respect the client’s right to withdraw or modify their consent at any time1.

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• Draping and physical privacy: RMTs must respect the client’s comfort level and privacy when providing massage therapy services. They must use appropriate draping techniques to cover the client’s body parts that are not being treated. They must also ensure that the client’s personal information is protected from unauthorized access or disclosure1.

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• Fees and billing: RMTs must charge fair and reasonable fees for their massage therapy services. They must also provide clear and accurate receipts and invoices to their clients. They must not engage in any fraudulent or misleading billing practices1.

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• Infection prevention and control: RMTs must follow the best practices for preventing and controlling infections in their practice environment. They must use proper hygiene, sanitation, disinfection, and sterilization methods. They must also report any communicable diseases or outbreaks to the public health authorities1.

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• Prevention of sexual abuse: RMTs must not engage in any sexual conduct or behaviour with their clients or former clients. They must also prevent any sexual harassment or abuse by others in their practice environment. They must report any suspected or known sexual abuse by another RMT to the CMTO1.

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• Privacy and confidentiality: RMTs must respect the client’s right to privacy and confidentiality of their personal health information. They must collect, use, disclose, and store the information in accordance with the law and the CMTO’s policies. They must also obtain the client’s consent before sharing or transferring the information to others1.

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• Professional boundaries: RMTs must maintain appropriate professional boundaries with their clients and others. They must not engage in any dual or multiple relationships that may impair their objectivity or harm their clients. They must also recognize and manage any boundary crossings or violations1.

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• Safety and risk management: RMTs must ensure that their practice environment is safe and suitable for providing massage therapy services. They must identify and minimize any potential hazards or risks to themselves, their clients, and others. They must also respond appropriately to any emergencies or adverse events1.

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The CMTO’s standards of practice support, care for, and protect clients by:

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• Ensuring that RMTs have the necessary competence and accountability to provide quality massage therapy services.

• Promoting client-centred care that respects the client’s autonomy, dignity, diversity, and preferences.

• Establishing clear expectations and guidelines for RMTs to follow in various situations and scenarios.

• Providing a framework for evaluating RMTs’ performance and addressing any complaints or concerns about their practice.

• Enhancing public trust and confidence in the profession of massage therapy.

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The CMTO’s standards of practice are an important resource for both RMTs and clients who want to learn more about the practice of massage therapy in Ontario. You can find more information about the standards of practice on the CMTO website2.