Massage Therapist

Massage Therapist

The massage therapist provides therapeutic healing touch to patients in both ambulatory and inpatient settings. Massage therapy in a medical setting is intended to assist with pain management, anxiety, and other side effects and symptoms of illness and/or medical treatment as well as increasing patient comfort and sense of well-being. Standard hours: 20 hours per week.

PRINCIPAL DUTIES AND RESPONSIBILITIES

Clinical Therapy Duties and responsibilities include but are not limited to:

Providing safe massage therapy for adult patients and pediatric patients as directed by supervisor. Providing massage therapy in accordance with the laws, regulations and guidelines of the Commonwealth of Massachusetts for the practice of massage therapy and the Massachusetts General Hospital (MGH) Policy and Procedures Manuals including adherence to all infection control requirements and safety guidelines.

Providing massage therapy treatments to patients in both ambulatory and inpatient areas as directed by Supervisor. Patient population includes but is not limited to adult sickle cell disease patients and/or oncology patients.

Reviewing patient medical records and determining appropriateness of treatment prior to sessions in consultation with other members of the clinical team as required. Must demonstrate the knowledge and skills necessary to provide care appropriate to the age and clinical status of the patients served on their assigned unit (s).

Having active communication about clinical care and massage therapy with the patient's care team, including attending nurses, physicians, and social workers and other colleagues.

Maintaining patient's confidentiality.

Completing documentation requirements in EPIC for each patient within 24 hours after they have received therapeutic massage.

Maintaining continuity of care with a patient when applicable.

Directing any patient concerns, comments or symptoms that arise during massage therapy sessions to the patient's healthcare provider, as well as referring patients to appropriate supportive services.

Population served may include adult and/or pediatric patients. The massage therapist must be able to demonstrate the knowledge and skills necessary to provide care appropriate to the age of the patients served on their assigned unit.

Meeting with Supervisor on a monthly basis. Attend all staff and team meetings.

QUALIFICATIONS

Current and valid Commonwealth of Massachusetts License for Massage Therapy.

Completed training in an accredited massage therapy program.

Board Certification in Therapeutic Massage and Bodywork (BCTMB).

Completed a minimum 30 CEU of specialized training for massage and patients with cancer and/or chronic pain or demonstrated skills based equivalent.

5 years experience working as a massage therapist preferred.

Experience working in a hospital or other medical setting preferred.

Must have CPR certification.

SKILLS/ ABILITIES/ COMPETENCIES REQUIRED

Ability to make appropriate clinical judgments of the patient to provide safe therapy.

Ability to communicate and present information about massage therapy clearly to patients, caregivers and other members of the patient medical team.

Professional and caring approach with patients in all phases of illness.

Must possess excellent interpersonal skills and be able to work with a diverse patient population in accordance with MGH policies regarding diversity and inclusion.

Must be able to work as part of a collaborative, interdisciplinary team.

Knowledge and practice of universal precautions, infection control and hand hygiene required.

Follows established procedures and policies related to the care of patients.

Maintains patient confidentiality.

Must have computer skills necessary to review patient charts and document treatments.

WORKING CONDITIONS

Massage therapy treatments are performed on various treatment areas throughout the Massachusetts General Hospital, including both ambulatory and inpatient areas.

Massage therapist must be able to treat patients in settings including but not limited to the following: hospital beds, infusion chairs, recliners, or beds, intensive care unit beds, chair massage chair.

Massage therapists must be able to walk to multiple buildings and units during a shift.

FISCAL RESPONSIBILITY

Provide services as directed by Supervisor within the hours approved by annual budget

Massachusetts General Hospital is an Affirmative Action Employer. By embracing diverse skills, perspectives and ideas, we choose to lead. All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, color, religious creed, national origin, sex, age, gender identity, disability, sexual orientation, military service, genetic information, and/or other status protected under law. We will ensure that all individuals with a disability are provided a reasonable accommodation to participate in the job application or interview process, to perform essential job functions, and to receive other benefits and privileges of employment.