As with any other health field massage therapists can find themselves on the receiving end of a lawsuit. Whether you are working for an employer or you are self-employed or even a practicing student you will want to know about massage insurance. Liability coverage is there to help you in the event of injury to a massage client and would normally include the cost of your defense.
You will want a comprehensive insurance policy in place whether you are just beginning as a student or you are a practicing massage therapist. Insurance while you are a student should be covered in your tuition charges so be sure and ask for a copy of the policy. The level of insurance covering a massage student will provide liability coverage both on and off premises for activities that are approved and scheduled by the school and permitted under applicable state and local laws. Keep in mind it will not cover you while you are practicing your massage skills on a friend or acquaintance.
Do you really need insurance for massage? Insurance is there to protect you and others in the event of an incident. Just as when you purchase insurance for your automobile. You don't plan on using it but then accidents happen. If something were to happen and you were not covered you could lose everything you own and future income as well. We live in a very litigious society and although you don't expect to be sued if it happens you will be glad you are covered. Your massage coverage will include liability amounts for coverage of damages as well as the legal fees for your defense.
To protect yourself, always be wary about diagnosing any conditions or ailments of your massage patrons. You can always talk to them about their aches, pains and other health problems but don't dispense any kind of remedy. Also be sure to ask about any injuries before you begin so that you are aware of and can monitor the level of massage you administer.
You will also want to consider disability insurance and health and life insurance especially if you will be self-employed. Your hands are your livelihood and you want to make sure you can take care of your body so that you are able to continue working. After you graduate from massage therapy school you will want to make an appointment with an insurance agent and find out what need and what plans they have to offer that can fill them.