Changes to RMT Regulation

A big change in the Canadian massage industry is happening. Insurance companies are demanding proof of 2100 hours of training on top of the RMT certificication. That will put half of the newer RMTs out of work.

15 years ago, the industry was in equalibrium. RMTs advertized in the mainstream newspapers while body rubbers advertized in alternative papers and with neon signs. Now everyone advertizes on the Internet and the boundaries have become blurred. 10 years ago, a rumour spread that becoming an RMT is a route to easy wealth and respect. Thousands of newcomers enrolled in RMT courses and a third have passed their exams. Like the real estate profession, there is an oversupply of massage providers.

The regulators have been slow to adjust to this influx. Without sufficient enforcement, there has been significant abuse. The practise of using another person's receipts has become normalized and exam impersonation has become common. Without significant education, it is becoming a job rather than a profession. Instead of being a unified group of healers, many RMTs are angry that the industry is in decline.

This change is unfortunate. The legislation was well intentioned and effective with checks and balances. Now private industry is stepping in to raise the barriers to entry. This will increase the amount of paperwork and consultancy fees. The extra costs will be passed onto the consumers.

Stay optimistic. There may well be a happy ending.

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