Massage Therapy Journal Winter 2024

12 • Massage Therapy Journal

Advocacy Advancing the Massage Therapy Profession

AMTA Advocates to Expand Access to Massage Therapy and Research for Veterans

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D uring National Veterans and Military Families Month, AMTA is highlighting its advocacy efforts to expand access to massage therapy for veterans and promote new research. We are dedicated to ensuring that veterans can experience the health advantages of massage therapy, which is a benefit covered by the Veterans Health Administration (VHA), when deemed clinically necessary by a care team. AMTA regularly engages with the VHA to advocate for increased funding and broader access to massage therapy services for veterans. Additionally, we collaborate with veteran researchers and actively involve our members in addressing regional issues affecting veterans. AMTA is featured in the Friends of VA Medical Care and Health Research (FOVA) 2025 Budget Proposal As a member of the stakeholder coalition Friends of Veterans Affairs (FOVA), AMTA supports access to complementary and integrative health services

for veterans, including massage therapy. AMTA has been recognized for its contributions to FOVA’s initiatives, particularly in expanding research on the benefits of massage therapy for military and veteran populations. The FOVA Budget Proposal for FY 2025 features a spotlight on AMTA’s efforts, underscoring its commitment to advancing research that demonstrates how massage therapy enhances veterans’ health and wellness. These research initiatives include exploring the role of integrative therapy nurses at the Minneapolis VA Medical Center, promoting reintegration for National Guard veterans through integrative therapies, and understanding veterans’ perceptions of massage therapy. This work is part of a wider push to secure ongoing funding for critical health programs that ensure veterans receive comprehensive care. FOVA advocates for funding and support for medical and health research programs within the U.S. Department of Veterans Affairs (VA). Its mission is to ensure veterans receive top-quality healthcare

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