The College of Massage Therapists of Newfoundland and Labrador (CMTNL) has concerns regarding the recent amendments to the NL Automobile Insurance Act, particularly the changes related to diagnostic and treatment protocols regulations (DPTR). These amendments may unintentionally limit both client autonomy in care and the professional autonomy of our healthcare providers. A link to the amendments of the NL Automobile Insurance Act can be found below:
Automobile Accident Diagnostic and Treatment Protocols Regulations (an amendment to NL Automobile Insurance Act; pp 357-382, The Newfoundland Gazette)
Attached for review is a copy of the Letter of Concern that the CMTNL has prepared to send to the government of Newfoundland and Labrador, more specifically, Honourable John Hogan, K.C., E.C.N.L., Minister of Health and Community Services, and Honourable Elvis Loveless, E.C.N.L., Minister of Digital Government and Service NL.
Government Letter of Concern Re: Amendments to NL Automobile Insurance Act
A second Letter of Concern is also attached for review, intended to inform the public of these concerns.
Public Letter of Concern Re: Amendments to NL Automobile Insurance Act
The College invites all members of the public, including clients, to join us in voicing these concerns and advocating for the necessary changes that will benefit our community. Members of the public may address their concerns in the following ways:
- Send any concerns or questions you may have to the College via email at communications@cmtnl.ca.
- Connect with your local provincial government representative to voice your concerns about the limitations on your autonomy as a client and your right to make an informed choice regarding your treatment. (You can find the list of members here: [House of Assembly – NL – Members].
- Begin a dialogue with your automobile insurance provider about these amendments to gain a better understanding of the MVA protocols.
The College encourages members (RMTs) to consider the following actions to address these concerns:
- Seek the support and guidance of your professional association (NLMTA) as an advocate to help voice concerns of the implications of these diagnostic and treatment protocols, ensuring that both client and provider autonomy are respected.
- Communicate with the College (CMTNL) directly, should you have concerns or questions on how to implement these new protocols into your clinical practice while still upholding the massage therapy practice standards involving assessment and treatment plan development.
