Posted at 1:00 p.m.
The Quebec Federation of Certified Massage Therapists (FQM) wishes to react to Isabelle Hachey’s text published in The Press. Our reaction aims to clarify our position and our mission as an ally in the continuum of health care.
The percentages (40 to 50%) of people refractory to the vaccine mentioned in Isabelle Hachey’s article, when she interviews a school principal in the “constellation” of players in the well-being industry, do not do not seem to correspond to the reality of our 4,500 massage therapist members. Unfortunately, we do not have official data on the vaccination rate among Quebec massage therapists, and our organizational context does not allow us to carry out a sophisticated study.
Never mind, and in the same vein as Isabelle Hachey, we invite our members to distance themselves from abuses that can seduce part of the natural health and well-being sector.
Wellness industry practitioners are not a monolithic group. Like any profession or trade, they are made up of people from various backgrounds, crossed by different currents of thought.
As far as the massage therapy sector is concerned, we consider it like a big family, focusing on what unites us rather than on what divides us.
The FQM has always encouraged vaccination. However, it follows the laws of Quebec and does not impose it, since at this time, it is the place of practice of the massage therapist that determines whether the vaccine is mandatory. If the government decided to change things, we would apply the decisions of our elected officials.
The FQM has always positioned itself as an unwavering partner in helping to make Quebec healthier. The task is great, but the challenge is worth it.
Supporting its members while protecting the public
Isabelle Hachey’s article looks back on the role of associations like ours. It is therefore appropriate to present our trajectory.
Founded in 1979 on the model of professional orders, the FQM is the most rigorous and credible association of massage therapists in Quebec. Historically, we have been the main contact for government authorities and many health organizations (CIUSSS, CHSLD, College of Physicians, Quebec Cancer Foundation, Quebec Chronic Pain Association, etc.).
Main association to bring together only massage therapists, the FQM frequently receives opinions from dissatisfied people regarding the changing situation we are going through. Restrictions, Obligations. They are too much for some, not enough for others. Above all, they evolve very quickly. Everyone agrees on the unprecedented nature of this page in history.
Our association listens to the comments of members and the public, their many uncertainties. She tries to offer solutions, clarity, and then to provide maximum support despite her limited means.
For example, I personally wrote four newsletters in three weeks to provide up-to-date information on government measures affecting massage therapy and the precautions to take to protect the public. But these measures raise questions. And we hear above all that behind each question is a fear: that of doing wrong or endangering others and oneself.
However, the FQM cannot replace public authorities or law enforcement.
We have in our ranks a syndic lawyer specializing in criminal law and a person in charge of professional inspections. We ensure that our members respect the highest ethical standards. We always position ourselves on the side of health and safety, trying to promote massage therapy, its unity, its diversity.
As our actions are based on science and respect for the law, we recommend the application of government instructions concerning COVID-19 or otherwise.
This is the price of setting an example to move towards the professional project that is ours.
Isabelle Hachey’s article deals with the notion of “service to society” which should guide associations like ours. Since 2010, our Massage Therapy Foundation has offered 27,000 massages to vulnerable people (cancer, chronic pain, mental health, caregivers). The scientific research1 has repeatedly demonstrated the benefits of massage in relieving pain, reducing stress and anxiety, improving sleep and concentration, etc.
Finally, we firmly believe that the public can have confidence in our concrete actions in favor of health and the improvement of human conditions.