Issue link: https://www.massageandbodyworkdigital.com/i/78617
visit abmp.com a handful of prescriptions and multiple visits to the doctor. There are a lot of people who prefer a more natural approach to pain and stress relief. One of the best ways to get this message out is to cultivate referrals from physicians and other health- care professionals. It's up to us to educate the mainstream providers about massage therapy. Every now and then the media still tends to portray massage in a bad light, and we have to combat the myths and let doctors know what it is we really do. In recognition of the trend of people seeking more natural ways of healing, many doctors are open to at least hearing the information—but don't sit around waiting for doctors to call on you. It's up to you to approach them. There are a number of different avenues to getting doctor referrals. Visit your local hospital and speak to the human resources person and the community education director. Many hospitals recognize an annual doctor appreciation or nurse appreciation day or week, so arrange to attend and do chair massage on those days—even if you do it for free. You are going to reap future rewards by making the contacts. Hospitals also frequently announce educational events, such as, "A presentation from Dr. Smith on 'Managing Your Stress' this Friday at 4:00 p.m." Attend a few of those and approach the doctor with business cards in hand at the end of the talk. You could also run your own promotion offering a discount for other health-care professionals. Create a cover letter introducing yourself and explaining the benefits of massage, enclose a couple Visit the newly designed ABMP.com. Log in. Explore. Enjoy. 33