As regulated healthcare professionals, RMTs/MTs are expected to meet their professional obligations in any practice setting. These include responsibilities related to record keeping, patients, professional relationships, and accountability for decisions affecting their Massage Therapy practice.

The following is an example to help illustrate key factors RMTs/MTs may wish to consider when starting at a new practice.

Practice Scenario

Don, an RMT/MT, is thinking about starting a new practice at a Massage Therapy clinic. Before beginning, Don reviews the contractor agreement and discusses expectations with the clinic owner, including details of their working relationship, and how a departure would be managed if the relationship were to end.

As part of these discussions, Don and the clinic owner clarify who the Health Information Custodian (HIC) is, how patient records may be accessed and used during employment, how decisions related to Massage Therapy is shared, and in the event Don were to leave the clinic, who would be notifying patients and what key details need to be shared. Where expectations are unclear, Don seeks clarification and independent advice before signing the agreement, recognizing that misunderstandings at the beginning may create conflict later.

By addressing expectations upfront, Don establishes clearer professional boundaries related to his role as an RMT/MT. This proactive approach helps protect himself, the clinic owner and patients.

For more information about changing a practice location, RMTs/MTs can review the FAQ document RMTs: Thinking of leaving your practice? Here are answers to frequent questions or contact the College of Massage Therapists of Ontario’s (CMTO’s) Practice Specialists: practicespecialist@cmto.com.