Many spa therapists refuse treatment to clients with cancer, based on incorrect knowledge or insurance issues. However, with the right information, therapists can open the doors to treat clients diagnosed or recovering from cancer at a time when they need it most. We therefore share key details to help your spa become a more inclusive environment.
Separating truth from myth
The first hurdle is understanding which cancer myths are true and which are false. For example, many spa therapists will turn away clients with cancer on the basis that massages spread cancerous cells. However, there is no evidence to support this. In comparison, information such as cancer changing how the body reacts to products, is true. This will mean that whilst treatments can be carried out on clients diagnosed with cancer, many will need to be adapted.
Therapists must have appropriate training
As outlined by BABTAC, therapists must have a recognised qualification and appropriate CPD training in any discipline they wish to carry out treatments in. That means staff, who wish to carry out treatments for clients with cancer, will need accredited cancer / oncology specific CPD training. Made for Life Organics provides a relevant course in Cancer Touch Therapy™. Accredited by the Complementary Medical Association (CMA), and approved by BABTAC and CIBTAC, the course ensures staff are covered in cancer-safe practices.
Treatments for clients with cancer
Once staff are trained to carry out treatments for clients with cancer, you will need to tailor those treatments and packages accordingly. For example, massages and aromatherapy could be adapted to include natural skincare products, catering to clients with sensitive skin following radiotherapy. Reflexology is another complementary therapy that could be adapted, whereby therapists could use less pressure in sensitive areas. For more ideas of suitable treatments, Cancer Research UK provide a full list of individual therapies, complete with research into each one.
Prohibited treatments for clients with cancer
Whilst many treatments can be adapted to clients with cancer, it is vital to understand which treatments are off-limits. Treatments that involve extreme heat, such as cool baths, saunas, or steam rooms, should be avoided to protect skin and prevent lymphoedema. Additionally, tanning treatments and those that include facilities with a high chemical usage (think chlorine in swimming pools), should be avoided.
Set cancer-related parameters in your software
Outside of setting up treatments, you will need to make sure clients with cancer are catered for in your business management software. Core by Premier Software® has a variety of functions that can help. For example, Core can assign staff trained in Cancer Touch Therapy™ to the correct cancer-related spa treatments. You can also set up an appointment status icon to inform staff of those clients who need handling with extra care.
Premier Software has partnered with Made For Life Organics to help spas become more inclusive by training staff in Cancer Touch Therapy™. Spas who are already using or purchase Core by Premier Software® will receive an exclusive 25% discount off the qualification. To find out more about the partnership and claim your discount code, click the button below.