by IEHA Member
QUESTION?
What do I need to know if I don’t feel SAFE to treat clients who have had the Covid-19 injections?
Some natural therapy practitioners may be wondering how to manage their businesses when treating clients who have had the Covid-19 injections.
Many therapists may not be aware that professional indemnity insurance does not cover trial vaccine adverse reactions that could occur during a provided course of treatment.
INSURANCE AND LIABILITY
You can choose to treat people who’ve had the shots, just consider that they have had an experimental mRNA injection which is unlike any previous vaccines that have ever been offered. The response of these patients may differ from what is normal or expected in the course of regular treatment.
The advice offered by one liability insurance provider (GSA) was to take very comprehensive notes. They were unable to say more as this is a new issue they have no experience with.
Unfortunately, a person who has received the shots may have difficulty receiving any insurance or compensation in the event of an adverse reaction. According to the Australian Journal of General Practice, “Australia, in stark contrast to 25 other countries including the USA, UK and New Zealand does not have a no-fault VICS (Vaccine Injury Compensation Scheme). Individuals who experience a vaccine injury must bear the costs associated with their injury by themselves or access treatment via our publicly-funded health system, but they will not receive any compensation for their injury and suffering.”
RIGHT TO REFUSE SERVICE
If you feel uncomfortable or unsure about treating clients who’ve had the shots you legally have a right to refuse service.
As stated on the Business.gov.au webpage for Refusing Service, “You can stop someone from entering your business, or refuse to serve someone, as long as you don’t breach any anti-discrimination laws.”
“According to the Australian Human Rights Commission, you’re breaching anti-discrimination law if you refuse service to a customer based on certain attributes, such as their: age, sexual orientation, gender identity and intersex status, race or disability.”
“You can refuse to serve a customer as long as you don’t discriminate.”
Stating business policies doesn’t have to be a big deal, you may add a simple sign that is visible when people book with you that says something like: “For reasons of insurance and safety this business reserves the right to refuse service to Covid-19 trial vaccine recipients.”
Or, you can ask people when they make an appointment if they’ve had the shots if they have politely and firmly told them of your policy.
Remember why you have a business policy, it’s not to scare, punish or deprive anyone it’s to protect you and the running of your business. If you would like to know more about your rights and common law you can also lookup Know Your Rights Group.
HOW TO PROTECT YOURSELF AND YOUR BUSINESS
When it comes to protecting your business at this time do your research and choose what is right for you and your clients.
A good start may be to ring your insurer and ask them where you stand, that will help you get clearer in making an informed choice.
If you are working with people who’ve had the Covid-19 jab, just be aware that as an industry we are now in the unchartered and uninsured territory. Take thorough treatment notes and perhaps adjust your treatment protocol to minimise any risk.
This situation will hopefully become clearer as we move forward but for now, all we can really do is be watchful and responsible as individuals and as an industry. If you have knowledge or experiences on this matter that you think will benefit our members, please reply to this email.
Stay safe and well.
With love and light.