Infection Protocols too much?

Yes, I do hear you. 

We're all more than a little burned out by all that goes with the COVID19 pandemic and the changes it has brought to our lives. I myself would give just about anything to give and receive a hug right now. And while there seems some light at the end of the tunnel we are still a ways off from being able to relax and return to a more normal life.

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 Some clients have expressed their unhappiness about the new infection control protocols that I initiated on January 4th of this year, and I want you to know that I do hear you and I do understand. That being said, I do have to follow them, while still providing you with an optimal, therapeutic session. (If you're not aware of them click here)

The association I belong to, the Natural Health Practitioners of Canada (NHPC), is who I'm professionally responsible to in order to practice as I do. My membership with them ensures clients that I am in good standing, following a code of ethics, maintaining and increasing my skills and education, am able to obtain a Calgary business license... all of which impact your sessions. It also allows for your sessions to be covered by your extended health benefits, if you have them. 

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NHPC in turn is responsible for helping to ensure your safety and mine. The new infection control protocols were a collaborative result of the four Alberta associations, that represent Massage Therapists. All four parties came to a consensus on the protocols put into place. I'm sure that was not an easy task and that there had to be give and take on all sides. The new infection control protocols are a result of that. 

I've heard you say that they are too much, take the enjoyment out of your session and even tyrannical. Perhaps I can ask you to consider some of my other clients who are immunosuppressed, elderly or have other comorbidities. You may not be worried about catching COVID but for them it would be possibly life threatening. With all of us following these protocols it ensures that everyone stays safe and all are still able to realize the therapeutic benefits of sessions.  Really this is no different to my asking clients not to come for an appointment if they have the cold or a flu, which has always been policy. I see clients who are going through chemotherapy or have other immunosuppressed illnesses and a simple cold is a much worse infection for them. 

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Through 2020 you rocked it! Every one was so understanding as we navigated new protocols as they came in, and changed, and shifted. It was a stressful time to ensure I was taking every step to keep you safe, and my gratitude to you is immense. Not that much has changed with 2021 other than wearing a mask through your session, an extra sanitizing of your hands and a request to fill out the COVID prescreen, be email, for each appointment. I think it may be more likely that we are just so tired of it all and the new steps were the one more thing that pushed people over. I understand completely.

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My goal is to provide you with safe, effective, therapeutic and holistic sessions that enhance your wellness journey, ease pain and stress, and overall improve your life. That hasn't changed in 26 years and won't. You can always drop me an email or call me if you have concerns about the new protocols as their may be a way that we can address your concerns for your appointments.  I want you to know that I appreciate you!

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