Obtaining GP consent

[Poetic Genitals]

Hi all

It's been a while since I last posted so hope you don't mind. I have a client who keeps forgetting to mention to her GP that she is receiving aromatherapy treatments (I've done 2). In the past she has asked about Indian head massage and her gp said 'donn't see why not, but why do you have to get my permission' so don't know if this has put her off a bit of asking for aromatherapy. She is on medication for angina, so I am staying away from any oils that might interfere. In the past I have sent referral letters to the same GP practice for other clients, and the returns I get, say they cannot sign to say their consent but feel it is up to the individual and the therapist. This has made me unsure what to do. Should I persist that my current client gets her GP approval or should I just get her to sign her consultation form to say she is happy to go ahead with treatments? When I did my IHM course, my tutor said it was up to the client to obtain consent from their GP but when I did my Aromatherapy course, it was up to the therapist to send out letters. Confusion!!!! According to my husband and others I've spoke to, they advise me against pushing it with the client with regards to obtaining signatures, approvals etc as it could make them wary. I'd love to hear other peoples opinions on this.

Thanks
Tracey

 

[broorgefupe]

I'mdoing ITEC aromatherapy now and they're still pushing the importance of therapists approaching GPs. But I did VTCT Swedish massage before and they've given up on it - which is more pragmatic, as doctors these days are reluctant to get involved (unless it's for a fee). The VTCT view (and I get the impression that ITEC may go that way) is that it's up to the client to obtain approval if required, and to sign the appropriate disclaimer.

 

[Peaches32]

ITEC published an article about consent a year or two ago (worth checking with them if you don't get The Professional Magazine/Embody). Basically the jist was once qualified ITEC expect therapists to apply "common sense" to seeking GP consent and have an understanding approach when contacting GP's as they are already busy and don't want to be bogged down with paperwork/letters etc or legal responsibility. Therapist's who have plenty of experience in dealing with specific conditions may be more confident in these areas of treatment and therefore may feel it is unnecessary to seek consent.

Informed patient consent along with Therapist responsibility does seem to be the way that ITEC are going, unless serious medical conditions are present. (your insurer may have other criteria)

With your particular client you are obviously already aware of key factors such as medication, treatment and contraindications. You also has already set a precedent for treating her with IHM and can demonstrate a good knowledge of your client and her condition. She has spoken to her GP about other forms of complementary therapy with no objections. Some clients are reluctant to contact their GP especially if you are a student and they are case studies. In the past I have got clients to sign a disclaimer of informed consent, which you should be including in the consultation anyway. (Remember client's may choose not tell you everything)

If you are still unsure of what to do, you could also write to the GP (with client permission of course) explaining that she is receiving treatment and you are aware of the contraindications for angina. This should be seen as a courtesy letter, but if the GP has a real concern they will have your contact details if necessary.

I know this probably still sounds vague but ultimately if your tutor wants you to do it certain way, this is how it should be. Hopefully they will fully understand the client issues surrounding consent and why GP consent may not be the most appropriate action.

 

[Lill Iren F]

It largely depends on the requirement of your insurer. FHT, now know as Therapy Insurance Service and being affliliated to VTCT no longer require the therapist to write to the doctor, but ask that the client obtains approval and signs the disclaimer.

Check with your insurers if you are not sure.

Lesley