Careers Complementary Medicine Information Provided By: Georgia Statewide Area Health Education Center (AHEC) PowerPoint Presentation By: Juliane Monko & Dr. Frank Flanders CTAE Resource Network, June 2009 Based On PowerPoint Ideas From: Penny Howard, RN, Healthcare Science Instructor

AHECAHEC There are six centers in the Georgia AHEC Network, and each serves a multi-county region. The AHEC mission is to meet the health needs of Georgia by improving the supply, distribution and quality of healthcare providers. AHECs offer enrichment programs, camps, learning tools, student counseling, volunteer and mentoring activity coordination, and access to other educational resources. Contact your regional AHEC for more information.

Objectives Students will be able to describe healthcare careers in the field of Complementary Medicine. Students will be able to plan a healthcare career path in Complementary Medicine.

Careers in Complementary Medicine Massage Therapist

Massage therapists press, squeeze and rub muscles and the soft tissues of the body to obtain a therapeutic effect. Massage therapists may use their hands, feet, massage instruments, dry and steam heat, oil, music, and light during a massage. They cannot cure serious medical conditions, but massage therapists can reduce stress, relieve aches and pain, increase flexibility of muscles and joints, and give clients a sense of well-being and relaxation.

Work Environment Salary Chiropractic offices Health clubs Hospitals Private practice Professional athletics Resorts Spas Wellness centers Average Starting Salary $26,400  Figures according to 2006 data. To see updated figures, visit the SOWEGA-AHEC website at: Massage Therapist

Massage Therapist Academic Requirements A high school diploma or equivalent is required. Educational programs last a minimum of 500 hours, but many require 600 or more hours of study.

Summary Students interested in this career should use the information provided here as a basis for a career plan. The student should also research the career further to complete a career plan. Careers available in Complementary Medicine include: Massage Therapist