The AMTA Massage Emergency Response Team (MERT) program was developed by the American Massage Therapy Association (AMTA) and operates under the supervision of the AMTA National Board of Directors. The AMTA MERT program provides guidelines and safety measures that prepare AMTA Professional Active members for deployment during emergencies and disasters. The policies and procedures were created to ensure the safety of the public, the rescue workers, and AMTA MERT Responders. Analysis of many emergency responses has shown that a coordinated effort produces better results in saving lives and protecting property. Federal agencies are required by law to have specific elements of a management system in place. Emergency Management Systems (EMS) include communications tools, leadership (command structure), and action plans for policies and procedures. EMS also provides guidelines on how to use limited resources wisely. The intention of MERT is to provide an EMS structure that is simple and easily achievable by AMTA chapters. AMTA MERT places professionally trained massage therapists in emergency response environments where their skill in therapeutic touch can bring respite to people operating with high stress levels (and often long hours). MERT works alongside individuals from local, state or federal emergency management agencies, the Red Cross, the National Guard, law enforcement, adn other responding agencies. Long before the concept of MERT, emergency management agencies developed policies and procedures allowing them to respond cooperatively and effectively to disasters. Adoption of protocols and procedures by MERT will ensure recognition as competent responders operating within hectic environments. Effective responses occur when correct terms are used, relationships are established and strengthened, procedures are understood, and the response is built on common emergency management ground. The acceptance of AMTA MERT by the emergency management agencies comes, in part, from the ability to organize and provide massage services without being a burden at the incident. The AMTA MERT Committee establishes policies and procedures to ensure the safety of the public and massage theapists on site. Understanding these policies and procedures helps team members to work effectively with other emergency management agencies and the public.  AMTA TN Chapter MERT
See attachments below for Responder Requirements and other info (to be added). |
National Convention 2010 |
MERT |
