Consent (Standard)

The client receives the information they need to make an informed decision about their care and is given the opportunity to ask questions of their RMT. Assessment and/or treatment only begins after the client has given the RMT consent. The client is aware they can withdraw their consent at any time.

Registered Massage Therapist Outcome

The Registered Massage Therapist (RMT/MT) obtains informed consent (consent) from clients or their substitute decision-makers prior to and throughout assessment and treatment.

Requirements

1. Prior to conducting an assessment, providing treatment, or modifying a treatment plan the RMT must obtain the client’s consent. Consent must include a discussion with the client about the following six elements:
   1. The nature of the treatment;
   2. The expected benefits;
   3. Risks and side effects;
   4. Alternative courses of action;
   5. Likely consequences of not having treatment; and
   6. The client’s right to ask questions about the information provided and that assessment or treatment will be stopped or modified at any time at their request.

   Relevant Legislation and Regulation

   • Health Care Consent Act, 1996 (HCCA)
   • Ontario Regulation 544/94 under the Massage Therapy Act, 1991
   • Professional misconduct in Section 26 of Ontario Regulation 544/94 under the Massage Therapy Act, 1991

   Related Career-Span Competencies (CSCs)

   Act with professional integrity

   Apply the principles of sensitive practice

   Comply with legal requirements

   Function in a client-centred manner

   Maintain comprehensive records

   [1] Applies whether in print or electronic.

   Resources and Guidance

   To meet or exceed the Standard, please see the following:

   • Standard Spotlight: Consent
   • Code of Ethics
   • Policy: Zero Tolerance
   • Practice Resource: Cannabis
   • An RMT's Guide to Consent
   • What Clients Can Expect from the Consent Discussion
   • Clinical Indications for Massage Therapy of Sensitive Areas
   • About the Standards of Practice
   • Guide to Practising More Than One Health Profession
   • Guide to Capacity and Consent in Massage Therapy
   • Client Awareness Poster

   Related Standards

   • Client-centred Care (Standard)
   • Communication (Standard)
   • Draping and Physical Privacy (Standard)
   • Prevention of Sexual Abuse (Standard)
   • Professional Boundaries (Standard)