(Effective until September 1, 2021)
Definitions.
The definitions in this section apply throughout the chapter unless the context clearly requires otherwise.
(1) "Animal" means any species normally recognized as treatable by veterinary medicine.
(2) "Animal massage therapist" means an individual licensed to practice massage therapy under chapter
18.108 RCW with additional education and training in animal massage therapy as required under this chapter and holds the animal massage therapist endorsement required by RCW
18.108.230.
(3) "Apprentice" means an individual enrolled in an apprenticeship program, and who is held to the same standards as students in massage schools or massage programs.
(4) "Apprenticeship educator and trainer" means a massage therapist licensed under chapter
18.108 RCW with at least five current years of experience in full-time practice.
(5) "Apprenticeship program" means education and training in massage administered by an apprenticeship educator and trainer that satisfies the education and training requirements for massage set forth in this chapter.
(6) "Board" means the Washington state board of massage.
(7) "Breast massage" means the specific and deliberate manipulation of breast tissue. Massage of the surrounding chest and shoulder muscles such as massage of the intercostal, pectoral, or axillary muscles is not considered breast massage. Breast massage is only allowed as authorized by WAC
246-830-555.
(8) "Department" means the Washington state department of health.
(9) "Direct supervision" means supervision by a faculty member who is a clinical supervisor of the massage school or massage program and is on the premises, in the student clinic and is readily available to students and clients or patients.
(10) "Evaluation" means the assessment of soft tissue in order to facilitate decision making regarding effective forms and techniques of massage, and identifying cautions and contraindications to ensure client or patient safety. Evaluation does not mean diagnosis.
(11) "Intraoral massage" means the manipulation or pressure of soft tissue inside the mouth or oral cavity for therapeutic purposes.
(12) "Massage" and "massage therapy" mean a health care service involving the external manipulation or pressure of soft tissue for therapeutic purposes. Massage therapy includes techniques such as tapping, compressions, friction, reflexology, Swedish gymnastics or movements, gliding, kneading, shaking, and fascial or connective tissue stretching, with or without the aids of superficial heat, cold, water, lubricants, or salts. Massage therapy does not include diagnosis or attempts to adjust or manipulate any articulations of the body or spine or mobilization of these articulations by the use of thrusting force, nor does it include genital manipulation. See WAC
246-830-550 for additional limitations on massage practice.
(13) "Massage business" means the operation of a business where massages are given.
(14) "Massage program" or "program" means education and training in massage therapy approved by the board. A program is an established area of study offered on a continuing basis.
(15) "Massage school" or "school" means an institution which has the sole purpose of offering education and training in massage therapy approved by the board.
(16) "Massage therapist" means an individual licensed as a massage therapist under chapter
18.108 RCW.
(17) "Massage transfer program" means a board approved massage program that allows board approved massage programs and massage schools to accept credits and clock hours from massage schools, massage programs, colleges or universities that have not been approved by the board, pursuant to WAC
246-830-037.
(18) "Secretary" means the secretary of the department of health or the secretary's designee.
(19) "Student" means an individual currently enrolled in a massage school, massage program or apprenticeship program who is practicing massage solely for the purposes of education and training as part of their current course work and who is not receiving compensation for said practice.
[Statutory Authority: RCW
18.108.025 (1)(a),
18.108.085 (1)(a),
43.70.041 and chapter
18.108 RCW. WSR 17-14-062, § 246-830-005, filed 6/29/17, effective 7/30/17. Statutory Authority: RCW
18.108.230(5). WSR 03-11-033, § 246-830-005, filed 5/15/03, effective 6/15/03. Statutory Authority: RCW
18.108.025(1) and
18.108.085 (1)(a). WSR 96-22-098, § 246-830-005, filed 11/6/96, effective 12/7/96. Statutory Authority: RCW
18.108.025(1). WSR 95-11-108, § 246-830-005, filed 5/23/95, effective 6/23/95.]
(Effective September 1, 2021)
Definitions.
The definitions in this section apply throughout the chapter unless the context clearly requires otherwise.
(1) "Animal" means any species normally recognized as treatable by veterinary medicine.
(2) "Animal massage therapist" means an individual licensed to practice massage therapy under chapter
18.108 RCW with additional education and training in animal massage therapy as required under this chapter and holds the animal massage therapist endorsement required by RCW
18.108.230.
(3) "Apprentice" means an individual enrolled in an apprenticeship program, and who is held to the same standards as students in massage schools or massage programs.
(4) "Apprenticeship educator and trainer" means a massage therapist licensed under chapter
18.108 RCW with at least three current years of experience in full-time practice.
(5) "Apprenticeship program" means education and training in massage administered by an apprenticeship educator and trainer that satisfies the education and training requirements for massage set forth in this chapter.
(6) "Board" means the Washington state board of massage.
(7) "Breast massage" means the specific and deliberate manipulation of breast tissue pursuant to WAC 246-830-555. Massage of the surrounding chest and shoulder muscles such as massage of the intercostal, pectoral, or axillary muscles is not considered breast massage.
(8) "Department" means the Washington state department of health.
(9) "Direct supervision" means supervision by a faculty member who is a clinical supervisor of the massage school or massage program and is on the premises, in the student clinic and is readily available to students and clients or patients.
(10) "Evaluation" means the assessment of soft tissue in order to facilitate decision making regarding effective forms and techniques of massage, and identifying cautions and contraindications to ensure client or patient safety. Evaluation does not mean diagnosis.
(11) "Intraoral massage" means the manipulation or pressure of soft tissue inside the mouth or oral cavity for therapeutic purposes.
(12) "Linens" means sheets, blankets, towels, gowns, pillow cases, face cradle covers, and other nonimpervious fabrics used in the practice of massage.
(13) "Massage" and "massage therapy" mean a health care service involving the external manipulation or pressure of soft tissue for therapeutic purposes. Massage therapy includes techniques such as tapping, compressions, friction, reflexology, Swedish gymnastics or movements, gliding, kneading, shaking, and fascial or connective tissue stretching, with or without the aids of superficial heat, cold, water, lubricants, or salts. Massage therapy does not include diagnosis or attempts to adjust or manipulate any articulations of the body or spine or mobilization of these articulations by the use of thrusting force, nor does it include genital manipulation. See WAC 246-830-550 for additional limitations on massage practice.
(14) "Massage business" means the operation of a business where massages are given.
(15) "Massage program" or "program" means education and training in massage therapy approved by the board. A massage program or program is an established area of study offered on a continuing basis.
(16) "Massage school" or "school" means an institution which has the sole purpose of offering education and training in massage therapy approved by the board.
(17) "Massage therapist" means an individual licensed as a massage therapist under chapter
18.108 RCW.
(18) "Massage transfer program" means a separate board approved program within a board approved massage program or school that allows the transfer program to accept credits and clock hours from massage schools, massage programs, colleges or universities that may not have been approved by the board, pursuant to WAC 246-830-037.
(19) "Perineum" means the tissues between the anus and scrotum or vulva.
(20) "Secretary" means the secretary of the department of health or the secretary's designee.
(21) "Student" means an individual currently enrolled in a massage school, massage program or apprenticeship program who is practicing massage solely for the purposes of education and training as part of their current course work and who is not receiving compensation for said practice.
[Statutory Authority: RCW
18.108.085 (1)(a),
18.108.025 (1)(a), chapter
18.108 RCW and 2020 c 76. WSR 21-02-012, § 246-830-005, filed 12/24/20, effective 9/1/21. Statutory Authority: RCW
18.108.025 (1)(a),
18.108.085 (1)(a),
43.70.041 and chapter
18.108 RCW. WSR 17-14-062, § 246-830-005, filed 6/29/17, effective 7/30/17. Statutory Authority: RCW
18.108.230(5). WSR 03-11-033, § 246-830-005, filed 5/15/03, effective 6/15/03. Statutory Authority: RCW
18.108.025(1) and
18.108.085 (1)(a). WSR 96-22-098, § 246-830-005, filed 11/6/96, effective 12/7/96. Statutory Authority: RCW
18.108.025(1). WSR 95-11-108, § 246-830-005, filed 5/23/95, effective 6/23/95.]
(Effective until September 1, 2021)
Applications.
(1) An applicant for a massage therapist license must be eighteen years of age or older and must submit to the department:
(a) A completed application on forms provided by the department;
(b) Proof of successful completion of the required education and training of a massage school, massage program, or apprenticeship program on an official transcript or school completion form sent directly from the applicant's massage school, massage program or apprenticeship program;
(c) Proof of successful completion of a board approved examination under WAC
246-830-201;
(d) Proof of successful completion of the Washington state massage jurisprudence examination;
(e) Proof of successful completion of four clock hours of AIDS education as required by chapter
246-12 WAC, Part 8;
(f) Proof of certification in American Red Cross first aid and American Heart Association CPR or the equivalent. CPR training must be in person;
(g) The required nonrefundable application fee in WAC
246-830-990; and
(h) If required by the department, fingerprint cards for a national or state fingerprint based background check pursuant to RCW
18.130.064(2).
(2) The secretary may request additional supporting documentation as necessary.
(3) The secretary will not grant a license under this chapter to any person who has been convicted of violating RCW
9A.88.030,
9A.88.070,
9A.88.080, or
9A.88.090 or equivalent local ordinances within the eight years immediately preceding the date of application, except as provided in RCW
9.97.020.
[Statutory Authority: RCW
18.108.025 (1)(a),
18.108.085 (1)(a),
43.70.041 and chapter
18.108 RCW. WSR 17-14-062, § 246-830-020, filed 6/29/17, effective 7/30/17. Statutory Authority: RCW
18.108.085. WSR 92-02-018 (Order 224), § 246-830-020, filed 12/23/91, effective 1/23/92. Statutory Authority: RCW
18.108.025. WSR 91-01-077 (Order 102B), recodified as § 246-830-020, filed 12/17/90, effective 1/31/91; WSR 88-11-011 (Order PM 725), § 308-51-010, filed 5/10/88. Statutory Authority: RCW
18.108.020 and
18.108.070. WSR 85-01-043 (Order PL 501), § 308-51-010, filed 12/13/84. Statutory Authority: RCW
18.108.020. WSR 81-11-005 (Order PL 379), § 308-51-010, filed 5/11/81; Order PL 255, § 308-51-010, filed 8/20/76; Order PL 231, § 308-51-010, filed 10/30/75.]
(Effective September 1, 2021)
Applications.
(1) An applicant for a massage therapist license must be eighteen years of age or older and must submit to the department:
(a) A completed application on forms provided by the department;
(b) Proof of successful completion of the required education and training of a massage school, massage program, or apprenticeship program on an official transcript or school completion form sent directly from the applicant's massage school, massage program or apprenticeship program;
(c) Proof of successful completion of a board approved examination under WAC 246-830-201;
(d) Proof of successful completion of the Washington state massage jurisprudence examination;
(e) Proof of certification in American Red Cross first aid and American Heart Association CPR or the equivalent. CPR training must be in person;
(f) The required nonrefundable application fee in WAC 246-830-990; and
(g) A state criminal background check, and, if required by the department, fingerprint cards for a national or state fingerprint based background check pursuant to RCW
18.130.064(2) and chapter 246-12 WAC.
(2) The secretary may request additional supporting documentation as necessary.
(3) The secretary will not grant a license under this chapter to any person who has been convicted of violating RCW
9A.88.030,
9A.88.070,
9A.88.080, or
9A.88.090 or equivalent local ordinances within the eight years immediately preceding the date of application, except as provided in RCW
9.97.020.
[Statutory Authority: RCW
18.108.085 (1)(a),
18.108.025 (1)(a), chapter
18.108 RCW and 2020 c 76. WSR 21-02-012, § 246-830-020, filed 12/24/20, effective 9/1/21. Statutory Authority: RCW
18.108.025 (1)(a),
18.108.085 (1)(a),
43.70.041 and chapter
18.108 RCW. WSR 17-14-062, § 246-830-020, filed 6/29/17, effective 7/30/17. Statutory Authority: RCW
18.108.085. WSR 92-02-018 (Order 224), § 246-830-020, filed 12/23/91, effective 1/23/92. Statutory Authority: RCW
18.108.025. WSR 91-01-077 (Order 102B), recodified as § 246-830-020, filed 12/17/90, effective 1/31/91; WSR 88-11-011 (Order PM 725), § 308-51-010, filed 5/10/88. Statutory Authority: RCW
18.108.020 and
18.108.070. WSR 85-01-043 (Order PL 501), § 308-51-010, filed 12/13/84. Statutory Authority: RCW
18.108.020. WSR 81-11-005 (Order PL 379), § 308-51-010, filed 5/11/81; Order PL 255, § 308-51-010, filed 8/20/76; Order PL 231, § 308-51-010, filed 10/30/75.]
(Effective until September 1, 2021)
Licensing for out-of-state applicants.
(1) A massage therapist applicant holding a massage license in another state or foreign jurisdiction may be granted a Washington massage license if:
(a) The board determines the other state's or foreign jurisdiction's education and training requirements are substantially equivalent to Washington's. Substantial equivalency means a course of study at a massage school or massage program that requires a minimum of five hundred hours approved by the equivalent licensing agency or agencies in the state or foreign jurisdiction in which it is located at the time of applicant's graduation;
(b) The applicant has a massage license in good standing as verified by the appropriate jurisdiction; and
(c) If there is a gap in practice of three or more years immediately prior to applying for a license by endorsement, the applicant must provide documentation of twenty-four hours of hands on delivery of massage therapy services.
(2) If an applicant does not meet the requirements of this section, then the applicant may fulfill the remaining education and training requirements as outlined in WAC
246-830-037.
(3) The applicant must have successfully passed one of the following examinations:
(a) Federation of State Massage Therapy Board massage and bodywork licensing examination;
(b) National certification examination for therapeutic massage and bodywork; or
(c) A board-approved examination.
(4) The applicant must satisfy the requirements in WAC
246-830-020 (1)(a) through (h).
[Statutory Authority: RCW
18.108.025 (1)(a),
18.108.085 (1)(a),
43.70.041 and chapter
18.108 RCW. WSR 17-14-062, § 246-830-035, filed 6/29/17, effective 7/30/17. Statutory Authority: RCW
43.70.280. WSR 98-05-060, § 246-830-035, filed 2/13/98, effective 3/16/98. Statutory Authority: RCW
18.108.025(1). WSR 94-13-181, § 246-830-035, filed 6/21/94, effective 7/22/94.]
(Effective September 1, 2021)
Licensing by endorsement for out-of-state applicants.
(1) A massage therapist applicant holding a massage license in another state or foreign jurisdiction may be granted a Washington massage license if:
(a) The board determines the other state's, territory's, or foreign jurisdiction's education and training requirements are substantially equivalent to Washington's. Substantial equivalency means a course of study at a massage school or massage program that requires:
(i) A minimum of six hundred twenty-five hours of education and training, to be completed in no fewer than twenty-four weeks and approved by the equivalent licensing agency or agencies in the state, territory, or foreign jurisdiction in which it is located at the time of applicant's graduation; or
(ii) A minimum of five hundred hours of education and training, and approved by the equivalent licensing agency or agencies in the state, territory, or foreign jurisdiction in which it is located at the time of applicant's graduation, at least two years of experience, and documentation of at least twenty-four hours of continuing education within two years prior to making application.
(b) The applicant has a massage license in good standing as verified by the appropriate jurisdiction; and
(c) If there is a gap in practice of three or more years immediately prior to applying for a license by endorsement, the applicant must provide documentation of twenty-four hours of hands on continuing education of massage therapy for the two most recent years prior to making application.
(2) If an applicant does not meet the requirements of this section, then the applicant may fulfill the remaining education and training requirements as outlined in WAC 246-830-037.
(3) The applicant must have successfully passed one of the following examinations:
(a) Federation of State Massage Therapy Boards massage and bodywork licensing examination;
(b) National certification examination for therapeutic massage and bodywork; or
(c) A board-approved examination.
(4) The applicant must satisfy the requirements in WAC 246-830-020 (1)(a) through (h).
[Statutory Authority: RCW
18.108.085 (1)(a),
18.108.025 (1)(a), chapter
18.108 RCW and 2020 c 76. WSR 21-02-012, § 246-830-035, filed 12/24/20, effective 9/1/21. Statutory Authority: RCW
18.108.025 (1)(a),
18.108.085 (1)(a),
43.70.041 and chapter
18.108 RCW. WSR 17-14-062, § 246-830-035, filed 6/29/17, effective 7/30/17. Statutory Authority: RCW
43.70.280. WSR 98-05-060, § 246-830-035, filed 2/13/98, effective 3/16/98. Statutory Authority: RCW
18.108.025(1). WSR 94-13-181, § 246-830-035, filed 6/21/94, effective 7/22/94.]
(Effective until September 1, 2021)
Transfer programs and transfer of prior education and clock hours.
(1) Board approved massage schools or massage programs may operate transfer programs that accept an individual's credits or clock hours from massage schools, massage programs, colleges or universities, subject to the following conditions:
(a) The massage school, massage program, college or university from where credits or clock hours are being transferred is:
(i) Accredited by a national or regional education accreditation organization;
(ii) Approved by a state authority with responsibility for oversight of educational or vocational programs; or
(iii) Approved by a state agency that regulates massage schools or massage programs and is a member of the federation of state massage therapy boards.
(b) The massage school, massage program, college or university from where credits or clock hours are being transferred provides an official transcript;
(c) Courses for which credits or clock hours are granted must be substantially equivalent in content and academic rigor to the courses and clock hours presently offered by the massage school or massage program. In order to determine substantial equivalency, the massage school or massage program will evaluate the courses and clock hours. If components are missing, the massage school or massage program shall require credits or clock hours for those subjects while granting partial credit as appropriate. Documentation of the massage school's or massage program's decision-making rationale must be maintained in the student's file; and
(d) Documentation of all previous formal education and training applicable to completion of a massage school or massage program is included in each student's permanent file.
(2) A transfer program must be approved by the board prior to a massage school or massage program enrolling a transfer student via the use of transfer credits or clock hours.
(3) An authorized representative of the massage school or massage program must submit to the board a completed application packet provided by the department. Approval of a transfer program will follow the same process as outlined in WAC
246-830-420.
(4) Approval of a transfer program is valid for three years after initial approval and every five years for reapproval. The board may place restrictions on or may revoke or suspend approval of a transfer program that fails to comply with the requirements in this section or in RCW
18.108.028.
(Effective September 1, 2021)
Transfer programs and transfer of credit or clock hours for prior education and training.
(1) A transfer program must be approved by the board prior to a massage school or massage program enrolling a transfer student through the use of transfer credits or clock hours.
(2) To qualify as a board approved transfer program, an authorized representative of the massage school or massage program must submit to the board a completed application packet provided by the department.
(3) Approval of a transfer program is valid for three years after initial approval and every five years for reapproval. The transfer program's initial approval expiration date will be aligned to the expiration date of the related massage school or massage program approval. The board may place restrictions on, or may revoke or suspend, approval of a transfer program that fails to comply with the requirements in this section or in RCW
18.108.028.
(4) Board approved massage schools or massage programs may operate transfer programs that accept an individual's credits or clock hours from other massage schools, massage programs, colleges or universities, subject to the following conditions:
(a) The massage school, massage program, college or university from where credits or clock hours are being transferred is:
(i) Accredited by a national or regional education accreditation organization;
(ii) Approved by a state authority with responsibility for oversight of educational or vocational programs; or
(iii) Approved by a state agency that regulates massage schools or massage programs and is a member of the federation of state massage therapy boards.
(b) The massage school, massage program, college or university from where credits or clock hours are being transferred provides an official transcript;
(c) Courses for which credits or clock hours are granted must be substantially equivalent in content and academic rigor to the courses and clock hours presently offered by the massage school or massage program. In order to determine substantial equivalency, the transfer program will evaluate the courses and clock hours and require transfer applicants pass written and practical tests administered by a board approved transfer program for each subject area listed in WAC 246-830-430 (1)(a) through (g).
(d) If components are missing or deficient from the massage school or massage program or the applicant cannot pass the required testing, the transfer program shall require the applicant to enroll and successfully complete those deficient components. Transfer programs may grant partial credit as appropriate; however, documentation of the massage school's or massage program's decision-making rationale must be maintained in the student's file; and
(e) Documentation of all previous formal education and training, as well as the test or tests used to grant credit or clock hours must be included in each student's permanent file.
[Statutory Authority: RCW
18.108.085 (1)(a),
18.108.025 (1)(a), chapter
18.108 RCW and 2020 c 76. WSR 21-02-012, § 246-830-037, filed 12/24/20, effective 9/1/21. Statutory Authority: RCW
18.108.025 (1)(a),
18.108.085 (1)(a),
43.70.041 and chapter
18.108 RCW. WSR 17-14-062, § 246-830-037, filed 6/29/17, effective 7/30/17.]
(Effective until September 1,2021)
Approval of massage school, massage program, or apprenticeship program.
(1) To qualify as a board approved massage school, massage program or apprenticeship program, an authorized representative of the massage school, massage program or apprenticeship program must submit to the board a completed application packet provided by the department. A completed application packet must include, but not be limited to:
(a) A curriculum designed to meet or exceed the requirements listed in WAC
246-830-430. The following documentation must be submitted:
(i) Table of courses offered;
(ii) Syllabus for each course that includes course title, subject matter, course hours, all instructor(s) name(s), measurable course objectives, methods of evaluation, course schedule, and textbooks or other instructional materials;
(iii) A sample copy of each of the following exams: Anatomy and physiology, pathology, kinesiology, practicum criteria, ethics and professionalism, and laws pertaining to massage;
(iv) Statement describing how a student will obtain first-aid and CPR training; and
(v) Institutional philosophy or mission statement.
(b) A plan for how the massage school, massage program or apprenticeship program will evaluate its academic standards. The following documentation must be submitted:
(i) Statement or policy on minimum standards for measuring student progress; and
(ii) Copies of policies and procedures, to include a policy on nondiscrimination.
(c) Documentation explaining how the massage school or massage program determines training and experience qualifications for faculty members. The following documentation must be submitted:
(i) Policy on minimum competency standards for instructors and a statement that all massage school, massage program or apprenticeship program instructors meet those standards;
(ii) Resumes for each instructor; and
(iii) A listing of all instructors and the courses each instructor plans to teach.
(d) A student clinic must be supervised by a clinical supervisor who is a licensed massage therapist with at least two-years practical experience. The clinical supervisor is responsible for reviewing the health history of the student's client or patient, and must review and approve the student's massage plan.
The following documentation must be submitted:
(i) A copy of policies pertaining to student clinic;
(ii) Disclosure statement form provided to client or patient;
(iii) Copy of client or patient intake and screening form; and
(iv) Copy of client or patient feedback form.
(e) Health, sanitation, and facilities must be maintained in accordance with local ordinances and these rules. The following documentation must be submitted:
(i) Floor plan of facility;
(ii) Floor plan of student clinic;
(iii) Equipment in classroom;
(iv) Equipment in student clinic; and
(v) List of library contents and computer or online resources available to students.
(f) A copy of policies on faculty and student conduct.
(g) Records must be stored in a secured location and be made available upon a student's written request. The following documentation must be submitted:
(i) A copy of a sample transcript; and
(ii) A policy on release of student records consistent with applicable law(s).
(h) Eligibility to operate a massage school or massage program. The following documentation must be submitted:
(i) Verification that the school is approved to operate in the state of Washington by the workforce training and education coordinating board;
(ii) Verification that the school is licensed by private vocational education (see chapter
28C.10 RCW or Title
28B RCW); or
(iii) Verification that the program is part of a college or university that is nationally or regionally accredited.
(i) Designation of an authorized representative of the school or program.
(2) The board may conduct a site inspection of the massage school, massage program or apprenticeship program prior to granting approval.
(3) The board may grant or deny approval or grant conditional approval contingent upon changes to the application requested by the board.
(4) To maintain approval status with the board, a massage school, massage program or apprenticeship program must apply for reapproval during the third year after initial approval and during the fifth year for each reapproval thereafter. Failure to apply for renewal by the expiration date of the massage school, massage program or apprenticeship program approval will mean that the approval is expired and no longer valid.
(5) In order to maintain board approval, a massage school, massage program or apprenticeship program must:
(a) Comply with any changes in training standards and guidelines adopted by the board;
(b) Notify the board of any changes in overall curriculum plan or curriculum content changes under subsection (1)(a) of this section prior to implementation by filing an addendum. The board may grant or deny the proposed change; and
(c) Notify the board of changes in authorized representative or instructors within thirty days of such change.
(6) An apprenticeship program is limited to no more than three apprentices per apprenticeship educator or trainer, and the apprenticeship must be completed within two years.
[Statutory Authority: RCW
18.108.025 (1)(a),
18.108.085 (1)(a),
43.70.041 and chapter
18.108 RCW. WSR 17-14-062, § 246-830-420, filed 6/29/17, effective 7/30/17. Statutory Authority: RCW
18.108.025(1). WSR 95-11-108, § 246-830-420, filed 5/23/95, effective 6/23/95. Statutory Authority: RCW
18.108.025. WSR 92-15-153 (Order 291B), § 246-830-420, filed 7/22/92, effective 8/22/92; WSR 91-01-077 (Order 102B), recodified as § 246-830-420, filed 12/17/90, effective 1/31/91; WSR 88-13-038 (Order PM 739), § 308-51A-020, filed 6/9/88.]
(Effective September 1, 2021)
Approval of massage school, massage program, or apprenticeship program.
(1) To qualify as a board approved massage school, massage program or apprenticeship program, an authorized representative of the massage school, massage program or apprenticeship program must submit to the board a completed application packet provided by the department. A completed application packet must include:
(a) A curriculum designed to meet or exceed the requirements listed in WAC 246-830-430. The following documentation must be submitted:
(i) A table of courses offered;
(ii) A syllabus for each course that includes course title, subject matter, course hours, all instructor(s) name(s), measurable course objectives, methods of evaluation, course schedule, and textbooks or other instructional materials;
(iii) A sample or samples of mid-term, final, or other equivalent exams for each of the following subjects: Anatomy and physiology, pathology, kinesiology, practicum criteria, ethics and professionalism, and laws and rules pertaining to massage;
(iv) A statement describing how a student will obtain first-aid and CPR training; and
(v) An institutional philosophy or mission statement.
(b) A plan for how the massage school, massage program or apprenticeship program will evaluate its academic standards. The following documentation must be submitted:
(i) A statement or policy on minimum standards for measuring student progress; and
(ii) Copies of policies and procedures, to include a policy on nondiscrimination.
(c) Documentation explaining how the massage school or massage program determines training and experience qualifications for faculty members. The following documentation must be submitted:
(i) A policy on minimum competency standards for instructors and a statement that all massage school, massage program or apprenticeship program instructors meet those standards;
(ii) A resume for each instructor; and
(iii) A listing of all instructors and the courses each instructor plans to teach.
(d) The student clinic must be under the direct supervision of a clinical supervisor who is a licensed massage therapist with at least three-years practical experience.
(i) The clinical supervisor is responsible for reviewing the health history of the student's client or patient, reviewing and approving the student's massage plan, and observing a reasonable portion of each massage session based on the competency of the student.
(ii) A faculty member in the role of clinical supervisor must ensure a ratio of no less than one faculty member to no more than six students who are actively performing massage.
(iii) While supervising the clinic, the clinical supervisor may only supervise the students in the clinic and no other students on the premises.
(e) The following documentation must be submitted:
(i) A copy of policies pertaining to the student clinic;
(ii) A disclosure statement form provided to the client or patient;
(iii) A copy of the client or patient intake and screening form;
(iv) A copy of the client or patient feedback form; and
(v) A copy of the supervisor feedback form.
(f) A statement that facilities are maintained in accordance with state and local ordinances and these rules governing health and sanitation. The following documentation must be submitted:
(i) A floor plan of the facility;
(ii) A floor plan of the student clinic;
(iii) A list of equipment in the classroom;
(iv) A list of equipment in the student clinic; and
(v) A list of the library contents and computer or online resources available to students.
(g) A copy of policies on faculty and student conduct.
(h) Records must be stored in a secured location and be made available upon a student's written request. The following documentation must be submitted:
(i) A copy of a sample transcript; and
(ii) A policy on release of student records consistent with applicable law(s).
(i) Eligibility to operate a massage school or massage program. The following documentation must be submitted:
(i) Verification that the school is approved to operate in the state of Washington, or has pending approval by the workforce training and education coordinating board;
(ii) Verification that the school is licensed by private vocational education (see chapter
28C.10 RCW or Title
28B RCW); or
(iii) Verification that the program is part of a college or university that is nationally or regionally accredited.
(j) Designation of an authorized representative of the school or program.
(2) The board may conduct a site inspection of the massage school, massage program or apprenticeship program prior to granting approval.
(3) The board may grant or deny approval or grant conditional approval contingent upon changes to the application requested by the board.
(4) To maintain approval status with the board, a massage school, massage program or apprenticeship program must apply for reapproval during the third year after initial approval and during the fifth year for each reapproval thereafter. Failure to apply for renewal by the expiration date of the massage school, massage program or apprenticeship program approval will mean that the approval is expired and no longer valid.
(5) In order to maintain board approval, a massage school, massage program or apprenticeship program must:
(a) Comply with any changes in training standards and guidelines adopted by the board;
(b) Notify the board of any changes in overall curriculum plan or curriculum content changes under subsection (1)(a) of this section prior to implementation by filing an addendum. The board may grant or deny the proposed change; and
(c) Notify the board of changes in authorized representative within thirty days of such change.
(6) An apprenticeship program is limited to no more than three apprentices per apprenticeship educator or trainer, and the apprenticeship must be completed within two years.
[Statutory Authority: RCW
18.108.085 (1)(a),
18.108.025 (1)(a), chapter
18.108 RCW and 2020 c 76. WSR 21-02-012, § 246-830-420, filed 12/24/20, effective 9/1/21. Statutory Authority: RCW
18.108.025 (1)(a),
18.108.085 (1)(a),
43.70.041 and chapter
18.108 RCW. WSR 17-14-062, § 246-830-420, filed 6/29/17, effective 7/30/17. Statutory Authority: RCW
18.108.025(1). WSR 95-11-108, § 246-830-420, filed 5/23/95, effective 6/23/95. Statutory Authority: RCW
18.108.025. WSR 92-15-153 (Order 291B), § 246-830-420, filed 7/22/92, effective 8/22/92; WSR 91-01-077 (Order 102B), recodified as § 246-830-420, filed 12/17/90, effective 1/31/91; WSR 88-13-038 (Order PM 739), § 308-51A-020, filed 6/9/88.]
Denial, suspension, or revocation of approval for a massage school, massage program, transfer program or apprenticeship program.
(1) When the board determines that a massage school, massage program, transfer program or apprenticeship program fails to meet the standards for education and training as required in this chapter, the board may:
(a) Deny approval to a new massage school, massage program, transfer program or apprenticeship program; or
(b) Suspend or revoke approval of an approved massage school, massage program, transfer program or apprenticeship program.
(2) The board may conduct a review or site visit to investigate any allegation that a massage school, massage program, transfer program or apprenticeship program has not met, or has failed to maintain, the standards set forth in this chapter including, but not limited to:
(a) Selling or offering to sell transcripts, or providing or offering to provide transcripts, without requiring attendance, or full attendance;
(b) Failure to require students to attend all of the classes listed on the transcript or school completion form;
(c) Failure to require students to attend all of the hours listed on the transcript or school completion form;
(d) Engaging in fraudulent practices including, but not limited to, the creation of fake documents to aid or abet students seeking licensure, aiding or abetting a student in cheating on the licensing examination, aiding or abetting students to use false documents or to present false testimony in hearings, aiding or abetting students in engaging in fraudulent practices with respect to hearings, making false claims, or otherwise engaging in fraudulent practices;
(e) Violating or attempting to violate, directly or indirectly, or assisting in or abetting the violation of any statute or rule applicable to a massage school, massage program, transfer program or apprenticeship program;
(f) Failure to create or maintain accurate records including, but not limited to, student attendance records and student transcripts or school completion form;
(g) Failure to identify transfer credit or clock hours from other institutions including name of other institution(s), credit or clock hours transferred, and class requirements met by transfer credit or clock hours on transcripts or school completion form;
(h) A finding by a state or local agency, or a private certifying, permitting, or accreditation agency related to massage, that a massage school, massage program, transfer program or apprenticeship program has engaged in any of the conduct identified in this subsection; or
(i) Failure of a massage school, massage program, transfer program or apprenticeship program that has requested board approval to meet or maintain the requirements for approval set forth in this chapter.
(3) Board approval expires and is no longer valid if the massage school, massage program, transfer program or apprenticeship program does not submit an application for renewal prior to the expiration date of the board's approval.
(Effective until September 1, 2021)
Training.
(1) A massage school, massage program or apprenticeship program education and training must have a curriculum and system of education and training consistent with its particular area of practice. The education and training in massage therapy will consist of a minimum of five hundred hours. An hour of education and training is defined as fifty minutes of actual instructional time. Certification in American Red Cross first aid and American Heart Association CPR or the equivalent is required. CPR training must be in person. This requirement is in addition to the five hundred hours of education and training in massage therapy. These five hundred hours are not to be completed in less than six months and must consist of the following:
(a) One hundred thirty hours of anatomy, physiology, and kinesiology including palpation, range of motion, and physics of joint function. There must be a minimum of forty hours of kinesiology.
(b) Fifty hours of pathology including indications and contraindications consistent with the particular area of practice.
(c) Two hundred sixty-five hours of theory and practice of massage to include techniques, remedial movements, body mechanics of the therapist, and the impact of techniques on pathologies. A maximum of fifty of these hours may include time spent in a student clinic. Hydrotherapy must be included when consistent with the particular area of practice.
(d) Fifty-five hours of clinical/business practices, at a minimum to include hygiene, recordkeeping, medical terminology, professional ethics, business management, human behavior, client or patient interaction, and state and local laws.
(2) To receive credit in an apprenticeship program for previous education and training, this education and training must have been completed within the five-year period prior to enrollment in the apprenticeship program.
(3) A student attending a massage school, massage program, transfer program or apprenticeship program outside the state of Washington must pass a jurisprudence exam.
(4) A massage school, massage program, transfer program or apprenticeship program may exempt a student from curriculum requirements when the student's successful performance on an examination that the massage school, massage program, transfer program or apprenticeship program administers demonstrates that the student has attained competency in that subject area as a result of prior postsecondary learning or training.
[Statutory Authority: RCW
18.108.025 (1)(a),
18.108.085 (1)(a),
43.70.041 and chapter
18.108 RCW. WSR 17-14-062, § 246-830-430, filed 6/29/17, effective 7/30/17. Statutory Authority: RCW
18.108.025(1). WSR 95-11-108, § 246-830-430, filed 5/23/95, effective 6/23/95; WSR 94-13-181, § 246-830-430, filed 6/21/94, effective 7/22/94. Statutory Authority: RCW
18.108.025. WSR 92-15-153 (Order 291B), § 246-830-430, filed 7/22/92, effective 8/22/92; WSR 91-01-077 (Order 102B), recodified as § 246-830-430, filed 12/17/90, effective 1/31/91; WSR 88-13-038 (Order PM 739), § 308-51A-040, filed 6/9/88.]
(Effective September 1, 2021)
Education and training.
(1) A massage school, massage program, transfer program, or apprenticeship program education and training must have a curriculum and system of education and training consistent with its particular area of practice. The education and training in massage therapy will consist of a minimum of six hundred twenty-five hours. An hour of education and training is defined as fifty minutes of actual instructional time. Certification in American Red Cross first aid and American Heart Association CPR or the equivalent is required. CPR training must be in person. This requirement is in addition to the six hundred twenty-five hours of education and training in massage therapy. These six hundred twenty-five hours are to be completed in no fewer than twenty-four weeks and must consist of the following minimum requirements:
(a) Ninety hours of anatomy and physiology, to include orientation to the human body, and the integumentary, skeletal, fascial, muscular, nervous, cardiovascular and other body systems.
(b) Sixty hours of kinesiology to include muscle identification and palpation, location and attachment(s), actions, range of motion, and joint classification and function.
(c) Seventy hours of pathology to include general terminology and classification of diseases, the indications, contraindications, cautions and common adaptations to massage including, but not limited to, arthritis, bursitis, cancer, headaches, skin cancer and other skin conditions, diabetes, fasciitis, sprain, strain, tendinopathy, nerve compression syndromes, osteoporosis, stress, fibromyalgia and other chronic pain syndromes, common neurological diseases, autoimmune disorders, bloodborne pathogens, common cardiovascular diseases, reproductive systems, pregnancy, and any other health care issues as they relate to the practice of massage as defined in RCW
18.108.010.
(d) Two hundred sixty hours of theory, principles, and practice of massage to include history of massage, benefits and effects, techniques and strokes, body mechanics of the therapist, application methods and styles, concepts of basic research, session planning and the adaptation of techniques appropriate to stages of healing, to include the safe use of superficial heat, cold, lubricants and salts, and considerations relevant to special populations.
(e) Fifty hours of mandatory student clinic to be directly supervised as defined in WAC 246-830-005(9) and in accordance with WAC 246-830-420 (1)(d), with a ratio of no less than one instructor to no more than six students who are actively performing massage. For those education and training programs beyond six hundred twenty-five hours, in no case may the number of student clinic hours exceed seventy-five hours.
(f) Fifty-five hours of clinical/business practices, at a minimum to include hygiene, sanitation, draping, recordkeeping, billing and insurance concepts, medical terminology, business models and management, and laws and rules relevant to massage and massage businesses.
(g) Forty hours of professional ethics to include the therapeutic relationship of the massage therapist and client or patient, human behavior, communication skills, professional boundaries, standards of ethical practice, and state laws and rules related to massage and health care ethics.
(2) To receive credit in an apprenticeship program for previous education and training, this education and training must have been completed within the five-year period prior to enrollment in the apprenticeship program.
(3) Only a board approved transfer program may exempt a student from curriculum requirements and grant credit or clock hours when the student's successful performance on an examination that the transfer program or apprenticeship program administers demonstrates that the student has attained competency in that subject area as a result of prior postsecondary learning or training. Any credits or clock hours granted pursuant to this subsection must be documented and retained in the student's record.
[Statutory Authority: RCW
18.108.085 (1)(a),
18.108.025 (1)(a), chapter
18.108 RCW and 2020 c 76. WSR 21-02-012, § 246-830-430, filed 12/24/20, effective 9/1/21. Statutory Authority: RCW
18.108.025 (1)(a),
18.108.085 (1)(a),
43.70.041 and chapter
18.108 RCW. WSR 17-14-062, § 246-830-430, filed 6/29/17, effective 7/30/17. Statutory Authority: RCW
18.108.025(1). WSR 95-11-108, § 246-830-430, filed 5/23/95, effective 6/23/95; WSR 94-13-181, § 246-830-430, filed 6/21/94, effective 7/22/94. Statutory Authority: RCW
18.108.025. WSR 92-15-153 (Order 291B), § 246-830-430, filed 7/22/92, effective 8/22/92; WSR 91-01-077 (Order 102B), recodified as § 246-830-430, filed 12/17/90, effective 1/31/91; WSR 88-13-038 (Order PM 739), § 308-51A-040, filed 6/9/88.]
(Effective until September 1, 2021)
Curriculum—Academic standards—Faculty—Student clinic.
(1) The curriculum of the massage school, massage program, transfer program or apprenticeship program must be designed and presented to meet or exceed the required five hundred hours.
(2) Academic standards. The massage school, massage program, or apprenticeship program educator and trainer must regularly evaluate the quality of its instruction and have a clearly defined set of standards of competence required of its students. Promotion to each successive phase of the massage program and graduation is dependent on mastery of the knowledge and skills presented in the massage school, massage program, or apprenticeship program.
(3) Faculty. An apprenticeship program educator and trainer and faculty member must be qualified by training and experience to give effective instruction in the subject(s) taught. An apprenticeship trainer and faculty member who teaches hands on courses must have a minimum of two-years experience in the subject matter being taught. The apprenticeship trainer and faculty member should develop and evaluate the curriculum instructional methods and facilities; student discipline, welfare, and counseling; assist in the establishment of administrative and educational policies, and scholarly and professional growth. A massage school, massage program, or apprenticeship program must not discriminate on the basis of sex, race, age, color, religion, physical handicap, national or ethnic origin, or other basis prohibited by law in the recruitment and hiring of faculty.
(4) Student clinic (optional program). Any setting in which a student clinic occurs must be adequate in size, number, and resources to provide for student practice of massage on the general public. A clinic must be properly equipped rooms for consultations, massage therapy or treatment, and equipment as required in the practice of massage. A faculty member who is a massage therapist with at least two-years of experience in massage therapy must provide direct supervision as a clinical supervisor, per WAC
246-830-420 (1)(d), and have final decisions in the massage treatment which is rendered to clients or patients by students. A faculty member in the role of a clinical supervisor must ensure a ratio of no less than one faculty member to ten students who are actively performing massage treatment.
[Statutory Authority: RCW
18.108.025 (1)(a),
18.108.085 (1)(a),
43.70.041 and chapter
18.108 RCW. WSR 17-14-062, § 246-830-440, filed 6/29/17, effective 7/30/17. Statutory Authority: RCW
18.108.025(1). WSR 95-11-108, § 246-830-440, filed 5/23/95, effective 6/23/95. Statutory Authority: RCW
18.108.025. WSR 92-15-153 (Order 291B), § 246-830-440, filed 7/22/92, effective 8/22/92; WSR 91-01-077 (Order 102B), recodified as § 246-830-440, filed 12/17/90, effective 1/31/91; WSR 88-13-038 (Order PM 739), § 308-51A-050, filed 6/9/88.]
(Effective September 1, 2021)
Curriculum—Academic standards—Faculty—Student clinic.
(1) The curriculum of the massage school, massage program, or apprenticeship program must be designed and presented to meet or exceed the required six hundred twenty-five hours completed in no fewer than twenty-four weeks.
(2) Academic standards. The massage school, massage program, or apprenticeship program educator and trainer must regularly evaluate the quality of its instruction and have a clearly defined set of standards of competence required of its students. Promotion to each successive phase of the massage program and graduation is dependent on mastery of the knowledge and skills presented in the massage school, massage program, or apprenticeship program.
(3) Faculty. The massage school, massage program, or apprenticeship program faculty must be qualified by training and experience to give effective instruction in the subject(s) taught. Faculty members who teach hands on courses must have a minimum of three-years experience in the subject matter being taught. The massage school, massage program, or apprenticeship program shall develop and evaluate the curriculum instructional methods and facilities; student discipline, welfare, and counseling; assist in the establishment of administrative and educational policies, and scholarly and professional growth. A massage school, massage program, or apprenticeship program shall not discriminate on the basis of sex, gender, race, age, color, religion, sexual orientation, gender expression, physical handicap, national or ethnic origin, or other basis prohibited by law in the recruitment and hiring of faculty.
(4) Student clinic. Any setting in which a student clinic occurs must be adequate in size, number, and resources to provide for student practice of massage on the general public. A clinic must be properly equipped rooms for consultations, massage therapy or treatment, and equipment as required in the practice of massage. A faculty member who is a massage therapist with at least three-years of experience in massage therapy must provide direct supervision as a clinical supervisor, per WAC 246-830-420 (1)(d), and have final decisions in the massage treatment which is rendered to clients or patients by students. A faculty member in the role of a clinical supervisor must ensure a ratio of no less than one faculty member to no more than six students who are actively performing massage.
[Statutory Authority: RCW
18.108.085 (1)(a),
18.108.025 (1)(a), chapter
18.108 RCW and 2020 c 76. WSR 21-02-012, § 246-830-440, filed 12/24/20, effective 9/1/21. Statutory Authority: RCW
18.108.025 (1)(a),
18.108.085 (1)(a),
43.70.041 and chapter
18.108 RCW. WSR 17-14-062, § 246-830-440, filed 6/29/17, effective 7/30/17. Statutory Authority: RCW
18.108.025(1). WSR 95-11-108, § 246-830-440, filed 5/23/95, effective 6/23/95. Statutory Authority: RCW
18.108.025. WSR 92-15-153 (Order 291B), § 246-830-440, filed 7/22/92, effective 8/22/92; WSR 91-01-077 (Order 102B), recodified as § 246-830-440, filed 12/17/90, effective 1/31/91; WSR 88-13-038 (Order PM 739), § 308-51A-050, filed 6/9/88.]
(Effective until September 1, 2021)
Continuing education requirements.
(1) To renew a license, a massage therapist must complete twenty-four hours of continuing education every two years.
(a) A minimum of eight hours must be direct supervised massage skills training; and
(b) A minimum of four hours must be in professional ethics, communication, or Washington state massage laws and regulations. Two of these hours must include professional roles and boundaries; and
(c) The remaining twelve hours may be met by meeting the requirements in subsection (2) of this section.
(2) For the purposes of this chapter, continuing education is defined as any of the following activities that involve direct application of massage therapy knowledge, skills, and business practices:
(a) Attendance at a local, state, national, or international continuing education program.
(b) First aid, CPR, or emergency related classes.
(c) Self-study through the use of multimedia devices or the study of books, research materials, and/or other publications.
(i) Multimedia devices. The required documentation for this activity is a letter or other documentation from the organization. A maximum of twelve hours is allowed per reporting period.
(ii) Books, research materials, and/or other publications. The required documentation for this activity is a two-page synopsis of what was learned written by the licensee. A maximum of two hours is allowed per reporting period.
(d) Teaching a course for the first time, not to exceed eight hours.
(e) Business and management courses not to exceed eight hours.
(f) Specialized training. Training must be provided for a fee by an individual who has no less than three years of expertise in that area.
(g) Distance learning. Distance learning includes, but is not limited to, correspondence course, webinar, print, audio/video broadcasting, audio/video teleconferencing, computer aided instruction, e-learning/on-line-learning, or computer broadcasting/webcasting. A maximum of twelve hours is allowed per reporting period.
(h) Active service on massage related boards or committees. A maximum of twelve hours is allowed per reporting period.
[Statutory Authority: RCW
18.108.025 (1)(a),
18.108.085 (1)(a),
43.70.041 and chapter
18.108 RCW. WSR 17-14-062, § 246-830-475, filed 6/29/17, effective 7/30/17. Statutory Authority: RCW
18.108.025,
18.108.125, and
43.70.250. WSR 09-11-016, § 246-830-475, filed 5/7/09, effective 6/7/09. Statutory Authority: RCW
18.108.025(1).WSR 95-11-108, § 246-830-475, filed 5/23/95, effective 6/23/95; WSR 94-13-181, § 246-830-475, filed 6/21/94, effective 7/22/94.]
(Effective September 1, 2021)
Continuing education requirements.
(1) To renew a license, a massage therapist must complete twenty-four hours of continuing education every two years, as provided in chapter 246-12 WAC, Part 7. Continuing education must be provided by an individual who has at least three years of professional experience in the subject area being taught. Massage therapists have a duty to ensure the continuing education they complete meets the requirements in this section.
(2) The following categories of continuing education are mandatory:
(a) A minimum of eight hours must be in person and directly supervised involving the participation of the direct application of massage therapy as defined in RCW
18.108.010; and
(b) A minimum of four hours must be in professional ethics, client or patient communication, professional roles and boundaries, or Washington state massage laws and rules. Two of the four hours may be met by attending board of massage meetings in person. A maximum of one hour is allowed per board meeting; and
(c) Maintenance of certification in American Heart Association CPR or equivalent. A maximum of four hours is allowed per reporting period.
(3) For the purposes of this chapter, the remaining hours of continuing education are defined as any of the following activities reasonably related to massage therapy knowledge, skills, and business practices:
(a) Documented attendance at a local, state, national, or international continuing education class, program or conference;
(b) First aid certification or emergency related courses;
(c) Self-study through the use of multimedia devices or the study of books, research materials, or other publications.
The required documentation for this activity is a one page, single spaced, twelve point font synopsis of what was learned written by the licensee. The time spent writing the synopsis is not reportable. Two hours of credit is allowed per report, and no more than two separate reports may be submitted per reporting period;
(d) Teaching a course for the first time;
(e) Business and management courses;
(f) Distance learning. Distance learning includes, but is not limited to, correspondence course, multimedia or webinar, print, audio or video broadcasting, audio or video teleconferencing, computer aided instruction, e-learning or on-line-learning, or computer broadcasting or webcasting; or
(g) Active service on boards or participation in professional or government organizations specifically related to the practice of massage.
(4) A massage therapist must provide acceptable documentation of continuing education upon request or audit. Acceptable forms of documentation include, but are not limited to:
(a) Transcripts;
(b) A letter from the course instructor or the organization providing the continuing education;
(c) Certificate of attendance or completion; or
(d) Other formal documentation that includes the following:
(i) Participant's name;
(ii) Course title;
(iii) Course description;
(iv) Date or dates of course;
(v) Number of hours;
(vi) Indication of being an in-person course, self-study as referenced in subsection (3)(c) of this section, or distance learning as referenced in subsection (3)(f) of this section;
(vii) Instructor's name or sponsor organization name or names;
(viii) Instructor or sponsor contact information; and
(ix) Signature of the program sponsor or course instructor. The self-study allowed in subsection (3)(c) of this section is exempt from this requirement.
(5) Massage therapists who maintain an active status Washington state massage license must meet all continuing education requirements regardless of whether they reside or practice in Washington state.
[Statutory Authority: RCW
18.108.085 (1)(a),
18.108.025 (1)(a), chapter
18.108 RCW and 2020 c 76. WSR 21-02-012, § 246-830-475, filed 12/24/20, effective 9/1/21. Statutory Authority: RCW
18.108.025 (1)(a),
18.108.085 (1)(a),
43.70.041 and chapter
18.108 RCW. WSR 17-14-062, § 246-830-475, filed 6/29/17, effective 7/30/17. Statutory Authority: RCW
18.108.025,
18.108.125, and
43.70.250. WSR 09-11-016, § 246-830-475, filed 5/7/09, effective 6/7/09. Statutory Authority: RCW
18.108.025(1).WSR 95-11-108, § 246-830-475, filed 5/23/95, effective 6/23/95; WSR 94-13-181, § 246-830-475, filed 6/21/94, effective 7/22/94.]
(Effective until September 1, 2021)
Standards of practice—Limitations.
(1) It is not consistent with the standard of practice for a massage therapist to touch the following body parts on a client or patient:
(a) Gluteal cleft distal to the coccyx, anus and rectum;
(b) Inside the mouth unless an intraoral endorsement has been issued;
(c) Penis;
(d) Prostate;
(e) Scrotum;
(f) Vagina, to include:
(i) Intravaginal;
(ii) Labia (majors and minors);
(iii) Clitoris;
(iv) Urethra; or
(g) Breasts, unless in accordance with WAC
246-830-555.
(2) A massage therapist must maintain evidence of the completion of at least sixteen specialized in-person contact hours of education and training if they are performing massage in the perineal area in addition to obtaining prior written and verbal informed consent. This written consent may be included within an overall general consent to massage document, if clearly delineated and either specifically initialed or signed.
(3) A massage therapist must not engage in sexual misconduct as described in WAC
246-16-100. Sexual misconduct will constitute grounds for disciplinary action.
(Effective September 1, 2021)
Standards of practice—Limitations.
(1) It is not consistent with the standard of practice for a massage therapist to touch the following body parts on a client or patient except where specifically noted:
(a) The gluteal cleft (space distal to the coccyx to the anus) and perineum unless in accordance with WAC 246-830-557. For the purpose of this section and WAC 246-830-557, the perineum is defined as the tissues between the anus and scrotum or vulva;
(b) Anus or inside the rectum;
(c) Inside the urethra;
(d) Penis and scrotum;
(e) Vulva to include labia (major and minor), clitoris, bulb of vestibule, vulval vestibule, urinary meatus and the vaginal opening;
(f) Inside the vagina;
(g) Breasts, unless in accordance with WAC 246-830-555; or
(h) Inside the mouth unless an intraoral endorsement has been issued in accordance with WAC 246-830-490.
(2) A massage therapist shall not engage in sexual misconduct as described in WAC 246-16-100. Sexual misconduct will constitute grounds for disciplinary action.
[Statutory Authority: RCW
18.108.085 (1)(a),
18.108.025 (1)(a), chapter
18.108 RCW and 2020 c 76. WSR 21-02-012, § 246-830-550, filed 12/24/20, effective 9/1/21. Statutory Authority: RCW
18.108.025 (1)(a),
18.108.085 (1)(a),
43.70.041 and chapter
18.108 RCW. WSR 17-14-062, § 246-830-550, filed 6/29/17, effective 7/30/17.]
(Effective until September 1, 2021)
Breast massage.
(1) Prior to performing breast massage, a massage therapist must:
(a) Acquire a prior signed written consent. The written consent for breast massage may be included within an overall general consent to massage document, if clearly delineated and either specifically initialed or signed. The written consent must:
(i) Be maintained with the client or patient's records;
(ii) Include a statement that the client or patient may discontinue the treatment at any time for any reason;
(iii) If the client or patient is under eighteen years of age, prior written consent must be obtained from a parent or legal guardian; and
(iv) Include a statement that the client or patient has the option to have a witness present, and that the witness must be provided by the client or patient.
(b) Use appropriate draping techniques as identified in WAC
246-830-560.
(2) In addition to the requirements identified in subsection (1) of this section, a massage therapist must maintain evidence of the completion of at least sixteen hours of specialized in-person education and training in breast massage beyond the minimum competencies. Education and training in breast massage includes, but is not limited to: Breast anatomy and physiology, pathology, indications, contraindications, therapeutic treatment techniques, draping, appropriate therapist-client or patient boundaries, expected outcomes, and client or patient safety related to breast massage.
(3) In addition to the requirements in subsections (1) and (2), prior to performing a massage of the nipples and areolas, a massage therapist must obtain additional documentation as follows:
(a) A written prescription or referral from a licensed medical health care provider for this specific treatment; or
(b) An additional prior written and verbal informed consent from the client or patient for massage of the nipple and areolas. This written consent may be included within an overall general consent to massage document, if clearly delineated and either specifically initialed or signed.
(Effective September 1, 2021)
Breast massage.
(1) Prior to performing breast massage, a massage therapist must:
(a) Acquire prior signed or initialed written and verbal informed consent from the client or patient. If the client or patient is under eighteen years of age, prior written consent must be obtained from a parent or legal guardian of the client or patient. The written consent for breast massage may be included within an overall general consent to massage document, if clearly delineated and either specifically initialed or signed. The written consent must:
(i) Be documented and maintained with the client or patient records per WAC 246-830-565 and 246-830-570;
(ii) Include a statement that the client or patient may discontinue the treatment at any time for any reason; and
(iii) Include a statement that the client or patient has the option to have a witness present, and that the witness must be provided by the client or patient.
(b) Use appropriate draping techniques as identified in WAC 246-830-560.
(2) In addition to the requirements identified in subsection (1) of this section, a massage therapist must maintain evidence of the completion of at least sixteen hours of specialized in-person education and training in breast massage beyond the minimum competencies. Education and training in breast massage includes, but is not limited to, breast anatomy and physiology, pathology, indications, contraindications, cautions, therapeutic treatment techniques, draping, appropriate therapist-client or therapist-patient boundaries, expected outcomes, and client or patient safety related to breast massage.
(3) In addition to the requirements in subsections (1) and (2) of this section, prior to performing a massage of the breast that includes the nipples and areolae, a massage therapist must obtain documentation as follows:
(a) A written prescription or referral from a licensed medical health care provider for this specific treatment; or
(b) Prior signed or initialed written and verbal informed consent from the client or patient or from the parent or legal guardian if the client or patient is under eighteen years of age for massage of breast that includes the nipples and areolae. This written consent may be included within the consent for breast massage document.
[Statutory Authority: RCW
18.108.085 (1)(a),
18.108.025 (1)(a), chapter
18.108 RCW and 2020 c 76. WSR 21-02-012, § 246-830-555, filed 12/24/20, effective 9/1/21. Statutory Authority: RCW
18.108.025 (1)(a),
18.108.085 (1)(a),
43.70.041 and chapter
18.108 RCW. WSR 17-14-062, § 246-830-555, filed 6/29/17, effective 7/30/17.]
(Effective until September 1, 2021)
Coverage and draping.
(1) A massage therapist must:
(a) Allow a client or patient privacy to dress or undress except as may be necessary in emergencies or custodial situations; and
(b) Always provide the client or patient a gown or draping except as may be necessary in emergencies.
(2) Massage therapists must use safe and functional coverage and draping practices during the practice of massage when the client or patient is disrobed. The drape(s) must be sufficient to ensure the genitals and the gluteal cleft distal to the coccyx, anus and rectum are not exposed, and the breast area is not exposed except as allowed in subsections (3) and (4) of this section. Safe and functional coverage and draping means:
(a) The massage therapist explains, maintains and respects coverage and draping boundaries; and
(b) Massage or movement of the body does not expose genitals or gluteal cleft distal to the coccyx, anus and rectum, or does not expose the breast area except as allowed in subsections (3) and (4) of this section.
(3) With prior written, verbal, and signed informed consent of the client or patient, the gluteal and breast drapes may be temporarily moved in order to perform therapeutic treatment of the area. In addition, with informed and written consent, a client or patient may choose to have their upper torso undraped during the entire massage.
(4) If variations to this coverage and draping rule occur, a massage therapist must:
(a) Maintain evidence of education and training in specific modalities that require variations in coverage and draping;
(b) Receive voluntary and informed consent of the client or patient prior to any variation of coverage or draping; and
(c) Document in the client's or patient's record the rationale for any variation of coverage or draping.
(5) Any written consent required by this section may be included within an overall general consent to massage document, if clearly delineated and either specifically initialed or signed.
(Effective September 1, 2021)
Coverage and draping.
(1) A massage therapist must:
(a) Allow a client or patient privacy to dress or undress except as may be necessary in emergencies or custodial situations; and
(b) Always provide the client or patient a gown or draping except as may be necessary in emergencies.
(2) Massage therapists must use safe, functional, and hygienic coverage and draping practices that comply with WAC 246-830-500 during the practice of massage when the client or patient is disrobed. The drape or drapes must be sufficient to ensure the genitals and the gluteal cleft distal to the coccyx, anus and rectum are not exposed, and the breast area is not exposed except as allowed in subsections (3) and (4) of this section. Safe, functional, and hygienic coverage and draping means:
(a) The massage therapist explains, maintains and respects coverage and draping boundaries;
(b) Massage or movement of the body does not expose genitals or gluteal cleft distal to the coccyx, anus and rectum, or does not expose the breast area except as allowed in subsections (3) and (4) of this section; and
(c) All linens that are used with the client or patient are kept and maintained in accordance with WAC 246-830-500.
(3) With prior signed or initialed written and verbal informed consent from the client or patient, the gluteal cleft and breast drapes may be temporarily moved in order to perform therapeutic treatment of the area consistent with WAC 246-830-550, 246-830-555, and 246-830-557. In addition, with informed and written consent, a client or patient may choose to have their upper torso undraped during the entire massage.
(4) If variations to this coverage and draping rule occur, a massage therapist must:
(a) Maintain evidence of education and training in specific modalities that require variations in coverage and draping;
(b) Receive voluntary and informed consent of the client or patient prior to any variation of coverage or draping; and
(c) Document in the client's or patient's record the rationale for any variation of coverage or draping.
(5) Any written consent required by this section may be included within an overall general consent to massage document, if clearly delineated and either specifically initialed or signed.
[Statutory Authority: RCW
18.108.085 (1)(a),
18.108.025 (1)(a), chapter
18.108 RCW and 2020 c 76. WSR 21-02-012, § 246-830-560, filed 12/24/20, effective 9/1/21. Statutory Authority: RCW
18.108.025 (1)(a),
18.108.085 (1)(a),
43.70.041 and chapter
18.108 RCW. WSR 17-14-062, § 246-830-560, filed 6/29/17, effective 7/30/17.]
(Effective until September 1, 2021)
Recordkeeping.
(1) A massage therapist providing professional services to a client or patient must document services provided. Documentation should be appropriate to the venue, the type and complexity of those services and, when applicable, in sufficient detail to support and enable anticipated continuity of care. The documentation must include:
(a) Client or patient name and contact information or name and contact information of a parent or guardian if a client or patient is a minor;
(b) Age of client or patient;
(c) Health history sufficient to ascertain if there are cautions or contraindications to safe application of massage therapy, and an update of the current health status at each session;
(d) Date massage therapy is provided and the duration of treatment;
(e) The types of techniques and modalities applied;
(f) The location or areas of the body that received massage therapy;
(g) Written consent to treat;
(h) If breast massage is performed, an additional written consent to treat per WAC
246-830-555, and documentation of a therapeutic rationale;
(i) If breast massage of the nipples and areolas are involved, documentation of the prescription or referral per WAC
246-830-555 (3)(a), or an additional written consent to treat per WAC
246-830-555 (3)(b);
(j) Documentation of any written consent or any modification in coverage and draping as required by WAC
246-830-560; and
(k) For massage therapy where the focus is on treating a health condition, the following additional information is required:
(i) Symptoms, for example, pain, loss of function, and muscle stiffness;
(ii) Evaluation and findings, for example, movement, posture, palpation assessment and findings;
(iii) Outcome measures, for example, improvement in symptoms, movement, posture, palpation, and function;
(iv) Treatment plan for future sessions; and
(l) If performing massage in the perineal area, an additional written and verbal informed consent to treat per WAC
246-830-550(2).
(2) Client or patient records must be legible, permanent, and recorded within twenty-four hours of treatment. Documentation that is not recorded on the date of service must designate both the date of service and the date of the chart note entry. Corrections or additions to the client's or patient's records must be corrected by a single line drawn through the text and initialed so the original entry remains legible. In the case of computer-organized documentation, unintended entries may be identified and corrected, but must not be deleted from the record once the record is signed and completed or locked. Errors in spelling and grammar may be corrected and deleted.
(3) Correspondence relating to any referrals by other health care providers concerning the diagnosis, evaluation or treatment of the client or patient must be retained in the client or patient record.
(4) Client or patient records should clearly identify the massage therapist who is the provider of services by name and signature or electronic signature and date of service.
(Effective September 1, 2021)
Recordkeeping.
(1) A massage therapist providing professional services to a client or patient must document services provided. Documentation should be appropriate to the venue, the type and complexity of those services and, when applicable, in sufficient detail to support and enable anticipated continuity of care. The documentation must include:
(a) Client or patient name and contact information or name and contact information of a parent or guardian if a client or patient is under eighteen years of age;
(b) Age of client or patient;
(c) Health history sufficient to ascertain if there are cautions or contraindications to safe application of massage therapy, and an update of the current health status at each session;
(d) Date massage therapy is provided and the duration of treatment;
(e) The types of techniques and modalities applied;
(f) The location or areas of the body that received massage therapy;
(g) Written informed consent to treat. A written consent is considered valid for one year unless revoked;
(h) If breast massage is performed, an additional written consent to treat per WAC 246-830-555, and documentation of a therapeutic rationale;
(i) If breast massage that includes the nipples and areolae is involved, documentation of the prescription or referral per WAC 246-830-555 (3)(a), or an additional written consent to treat per WAC 246-830-555 (3)(b);
(j) If performing massage of the gluteal cleft or perineum, an additional written and verbal informed consent to treat is required to detail that the client or patient has a clear understanding of the therapeutic rationale, treatment plan, and areas to be massaged for that region per WAC 246-830-557(4);
(k) Documentation of any written consent or any modification in coverage and draping as required by WAC 246-830-560; and
(l) For massage therapy where the focus is on treating a health condition, the following additional information is required:
(i) Symptoms, for example, pain, loss of function, and muscle stiffness;
(ii) Evaluation and findings, for example, movement, posture, palpation assessment and findings;
(iii) Outcome measures, for example, improvement in symptoms, movement, posture, palpation, and function; and
(iv) Treatment plan for future sessions.
(2) Client or patient records must be legible, permanent, and recorded within twenty-four hours of treatment. Documentation that is not recorded on the date of service must designate both the date of service and the date of the chart note entry. Corrections or additions to the client's or patient's records must be corrected by a single line drawn through the text and initialed so the original entry remains legible. In the case of computer-organized documentation, unintended entries may be identified and corrected, but must not be deleted from the record once the record is signed and completed or locked. Errors in spelling and grammar may be corrected and deleted.
(3) Correspondence relating to any referrals by other health care providers concerning the diagnosis, evaluation or treatment of the client or patient must be retained in the client or patient record.
(4) Client or patient records should clearly identify the massage therapist who is the provider of services by name and signature or electronic signature and date of service.
[Statutory Authority: RCW
18.108.085 (1)(a),
18.108.025 (1)(a), chapter
18.108 RCW and 2020 c 76. WSR 21-02-012, § 246-830-565, filed 12/24/20, effective 9/1/21. Statutory Authority: RCW
18.108.025 (1)(a),
18.108.085 (1)(a),
43.70.041 and chapter
18.108 RCW. WSR 17-14-062, § 246-830-565, filed 6/29/17, effective 7/30/17.]
