Career Opportunities: Massage Therapy Practice in Hospitals

New massage therapy patient programs are providing a means for hospitals to distinguish themselves from more conventional hospitals while providing patients with additional health care options. A greater number of patients and medical professionals are recognizing that massage is more than a means for pampering or relaxation.
As more hospitals and patients recognize the value of massage therapy, massage therapists are entering the hospital setting in increasing numbers. Along with expanded career potential, licensed massage therapists discover opportunities to improve their skills within their chosen profession.
In a three-year span, the number of hospital complementary and alternative programs has more than doubled. Massage therapy is among the most popular inpatient and outpatient services. Health care providers are using massage therapy for pain management, general stress, serious illnesses such as cancer, to alleviate discomfort, restore balance to body/mind, rejuvenate, and enhance wellness. Hospitals are utilizing massage therapy for special-needs patients as well.
Hospitals that traditionally have been structured into restricted health care fields are now expanding to include new staff opportunities for massage therapists. With studies being conducted that present evidence of massage in helping patients with debilitating illness, hospitals are also increasing the number of massage therapy staff positions.
One in four hospitals now offer massage therapy services to patients, according to a recent survey by Health Forum, a subsidiary of the American Hospital Association. Patient demand is the primary reason for offering massage therapy; however, hospitals also cited clinical effectiveness and the fact that massage therapy services reflect the hospital’s intent to treat patients holistically.
A massage therapy career is one of the most rewarding experiences you will find in the health care field. Acupuncture & Massage College’s Massage Therapy program offers a specialization in Japanese shiatsu which enables students to develop experience working with a range of techniques within Asian systems of medicine. Students complete courses in shiatsu, Swedish, medical massage, and the biosciences.
The fast growing and expanding field of massage therapy ensures our graduates can find work in a wide array of settings, including: Hospitals, private offices, fitness centers, sports medicine facilities, airports, spas, physicians’ offices, cruise ships, clinics, and wellness centers.
For information about Acupuncture & Massage College’s Oriental Medicine and Massage Therapy programs call Joe Calareso, Admissions Director, at (305) 595-9500.