There is NEW information regarding continuing education for Massage Therapists in Iowa.  As of May 2007, this summary includes the most recent updates and changes.  As always, check the website regularly as changes are made to the laws on an ongoing basis.  As a Licensee in Iowa, it is your responsibility to know the rules and regulations.

You can now renew your Iowa license ON LINE!  Go to the website, http://idph.state.ia.us/licensure/board_home.asp?board=mt and there is a link that will take you through this very simple procedure.

The following is summarized from Chapter 133, Continuing Education for Massage Therapists

*You are required to obtain a minimum of 24 hours of continuing education every two years

*There are now two categories of CE classes

            Category A is education that is direct hands on training attended personally by the licensee.

            *A minimum of 12 of the 24 hours must meet the criteria set forth in Category A

            *These hours must be directly related to the practice of massage/bodywork and 

            *MUST be sponsored by a professional association or professional hands on school of massage therapy that meets or exceeds the State of Iowa requirements. 

            *The presenter must have a minimum five years clinical experience in massage/bodywork. 

            EXCLUDED content in Category A are any massage/bodywork techniques that do not directly make  physical contact with the body and that are outside the scope of practice in accordance to the definition of massage therapy in rule 645-131.1 (152C).

            Category B education may either be programs of learning which contribute directly to the professional competency and enhance the practice of the licensee or hands on training.

            *A maximum of 12 of the 24 hours may be educational programs that meet the criteria in Category B.

            *Programs of learning do not have to be sponsored by professional association or a school of massage therapy.

            *The presenter is not required to have a minimum five years clinical experience in massage/bodywork.

            *A maximum of six hours may be obtained in independent study in the areas of massage/bodywork, ethics, and mandatory reporter training and practice  management.

            *CPR may account for up to two hours of credit in a two year renewal period

            EXCLUDED content in Category B include, but are not limited to, any program or training that is outside the scope of practice of massage therapy in accordance to the definition of massage therapy in rule 645-131.1 (152C) or that does not enhance the professional competency relating to the field of massage /bodywork
 therapy.

*Some other information of importance:

            Under Chapter 131, Licensure of Massage Therapists:

            *There is no specific criteria set forth as to what CPR a person must have to
maintain their license.  It is understood that a licensee will obtain the necessary
certification to reflect their practice and their clientele.  Therefore, if you only
work with adults then you only need Adult CPR.  If you work with children
and/or infants then it is your responsibility to become certified in these areas as well.

            *If you work in a setting or treat dependant adults or children you are required to attend Mandatory Reporter training.