Every massage therapist encounters times in his or her career when it makes sense to refer a client to someone else, such as a physician, a chiropractor, a physical therapist or another massage therapist. Evaluate each client on a case by case basis to determine the best course of action for referrals.

Referring to Other Health Care Professions

It is essential that you refer clients to other professionals if you are aware that they have any health conditions that are outside of your scope of practice. You could be aware of these conditions through:

• The client’s health history on the client intake form

• Something you observe when you are giving a massage

• Something the clients tells you

• If you have suggested to a client that he or she see another professional, note your recommendation in the clients file for future reference.