Michigan Massage Therapy Insurance
Michigan Massage Liability Insurance Guidelines
In the world of wellness and healing, "liability insurance" might sound like a term reserved for surgical rooms or complex medical treatments. However, given the intimate nature of their profession, massage therapists are inherently vulnerable to potential legal claims from their clients. While massage therapy is typically seen as a low-risk profession, one can never predict a client's response. Ensuring proper insurance coverage is paramount in a world where legal cases are more common than ever.
Michigan has stringent requirements established by the Board of Massage Therapy to guarantee that only the best and the most ethical practitioners are licensed. To achieve this esteemed recognition, aspirants must:
Be at least 18 years old.
Undertake and successfully complete 500 hours of training, with a minimum of 200 hours dedicated to massage and bodywork assessment and practice.
Enroll in and finish a supervised curriculum training program with the Board of Massage's stamp of approval.
Clear the Massage and Bodywork Licensing Examination (MBLEx) to showcase their expertise and readiness.
Complete the necessary paperwork, including a comprehensive application form and a $95.95 fee.
Massage therapists in Michigan are encouraged to carry professional liability insurance, commonly referred to as malpractice insurance. This coverage safeguards therapists from unforeseen incidents and potential legal claims that might jeopardize their personal assets and future income. It also protects therapists if a client files a claim against them for injuries or harm they experienced during a massage session.
Additionally, in Michigan's commitment to excellence, continual learning is the profession's bedrock. Massage therapists eager to renew their license must:
Engage in 18 hours of continuing education (CE) from a recognized CE provider within the preceding three years. This must encompass at least:
1 hour dedicated to pain and symptom management.
2 hours focusing on professional ethics or boundaries.
Fulfill the online renewal process by accessing their MiPLUS account.
Settle the renewal fee, which stands at $243.30.
The state ensures you always complete all renewal deadlines by sending a postcard approximately three months before the license expiration date, providing all the necessary renewal details.
For those contemplating a career in massage therapy, it's crucial to note that every massage therapist in Michigan requires a license from the Michigan Board of Massage Therapy. Practicing without one isn't just unethical—it's a criminal offense. It's also worth noting that Michigan has upheld the mandatory licensure for massage therapists since November 29, 2014.
Securing a license to practice massage therapy in Michigan might seem like a rigorous journey, but it's a testament to the state's commitment to safeguarding the interests of both therapists and clients. The mandated massage liability insurance provisions reinforce this commitment, assuring therapists and their clientele that a robust safety mechanism is in place. It's a win-win—therapists can practice confidently. At the same time, clients can relax, knowing their well-being is in licensed and insured hands.
Michigan Massage Therapy Resources
The following are state resources, including some Michigan employment statistics, to help you determine if being a massage therapist is right for you: Michigan massage employment statistics as of August 25, 2023: $34.45/hour
Source: Indeed.com
Education Requirements: Prospective massage therapists must complete programs that include state-approved curriculum, programs must be at least 500 hours, and the remaining hours must be related to the practice of massage therapy. The student will need to spend at least 40 hours providing massage services at a student clinic.
Source: Massage Therapy License Requirements in Michigan | LMT in MI | MassageTherapyLicense.org
For additional information about massage therapy in Michigan, follow these links:
Everything You Need to Know About Renewals in Michigan
To renew a massage therapist license in Michigan, you must complete 18 hours of continuing education (CE) hours from an approved CE provider. The CE hours must be completed in the two years preceding the application for license renewal.
The CE hours must include:
- 1 hour of pain and symptom management
- 2 hours of professional ethics and boundaries
The renewal fee is $225. You can renew online at michigan.gov/elicense. You should receive a postcard from the state approximately 3 months before your expiration date.
If you need assistance, you can contact the Bureau of Professional Licensing at BPLHelp@michigan.gov or 517-241-0199.
Three Policy Options to Choose From For Michigan Massage Insurance
1 year full-time Professional Rate
$
169
/1yr
Cost to you: $0.46/day
2 year full-time
professional rate
$
289
/2yr
Cost to you: $0.39/day
1 year part-time
professional rate
$
149
/1yr
Cost to you: $0.41/day
Who Is Massage Magazine Insurance Plus?
With a rich history of 38 years in the industry, MASSAGE Magazine created Massage Magazine Insurance Plus as a comprehensive national liability insurance policy for professionals in the fields of health, wellness, and beauty.
Now supported by Arthur J. Gallagher & Co. and Arch Insurance, our members can benefit from enhanced insurance coverage that is both reliable and backed by esteemed partners. Despite these advancements, our dedicated team at MASSAGE Magazine, serving the massage and bodywork industry since 1985, continues to operate the program.
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