A is for: access and accessibility
Access and accessibility is a wide topic that could cover everything from the ease of navigating a physical space to how financially attainable something is.
In 2023 I made it a goal of mine to start thinking about how to address accessibility in my Massage Therapy practice and I would love to share some of this ongoing practice with you.
2SLGBTIA+
This was the first place I started with this project. I reevaluated some of the content in my health history form to be more inclusive and less gender specific. My amazing online booking site offers all patients the opportunity to provide their pronouns, use a name other than their current legal name, and clearly states that they recognize gender and sex are not the same (even if collecting this information may be necessary for insurance purposes). I am also able to display my pronouns on my booking site.
It has always been my goal for all patients to feel welcome, comfortable, and celebrated for exactly who they are and I look forward to continuing to educate myself in this area.
DISABILITY ACCESS
This is also a wide topic!
I have elevator access in my current office. But the one thing I wasn’t in control of was installing the security intercom system. That system may not be accessible or reachable for all.
I love a pretty minimal space and one of the upsides to this is that it can help to make the space more accessible for blind and low-vision patients as well as provide a clear space for patients using wheelchairs and other mobility devices. I have an electric lift table that allows for a safe table height for all patients getting on and off the table.
I have Braille on my office door but would love to find someone to make me a high-contrast, Braille-included hallway sign for my door.
I have been enjoying learning ASL over the past few years. I don’t know enough sign to have a medical conversation, but it is nice to make some small talk before an appointment! I am happy to use any tools D/deaf and hard-of-hearing (HoH) patients prefer for communication. I have also implemented a hallway light on/off system to allows D/deaf and HoH patients to let me know when they are ready for me to enter the treatment room.
Sadly, my security intercom is also not D/deaf or HoH friendly as it is audio only.
Financial Accessibility
Health care is expensive. Many patients have extended health benefits through work, and I recognize that this is a privilege not everyone enjoys. For 2024, I have finally implemented a Pay What You Can (PWYC) treatment option. One day of every week is open for these 45-minute appointments to be booked. These spaces are open to all; there is no ‘financial proof’ requirement. At the end of the appointment, you simply pay what you are able to pay. A receipt will be provided to allow you to claim this medical expense on your taxes.
What does an accessible Massage Therapy visit mean to you?