COVID-19 Updates–March 17, 2020

An Update: COVID-19 and New Developments for Our Members

Dear Members: This is an unprecedented time for everyone. We fully understand and appreciate that there is a lot of fear around these unknowns. It is important for us to try to provide you with as much information as possible in a timely manner (as we receive it). Your patience at this time is greatly appreciated.

It is completely understandable that you are worried about your livelihood, particularly given that many RMTs are self-employed. These are exceptional circumstances and we are doing our absolute best to keep you up-to-date with any and all developments in this regard. It is important to continue to reference reputable resources for information regarding COVID-19 as determined by the Department of Health (NB), and the Government of Canada..

Direct Inquiries to the College (CMTNB)

Please direct your inquiries regarding your massage therapy practice to the College (CMTNB), as they are the profession regulator. This is not within the ANBMT’s jurisdiction or within our power to make these decisions and judgements. The ANBMT is the advocating body.

Note: We have been informed by the College registrar, Charline McLean, that they will be issuing a mass email statement very soon for all RMTs. Please stay tuned for that message!

Best regards,
Coralie Hopkins
Executive Director, ANBMT

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Notice from Lackner McLennan Insurance

Dear valued clients:

We at Lackner McLennan Insurance hope you, your family, and your clients are keeping well during this exceptional COVID19 situation.

As further developments unwind, we are receiving many inquiries regarding coverages for business interruption. We have reached out to Novex Insurance and confirmed that the following is the definition under the Complementary Health Program Policy:

BUSINESS INTERRUPTION
This Item insures only against loss directly resulting from necessary interruption of business caused by destruction or damage at the “premises” by an insured peril.

Business interruption coverages cannot be triggered by such things as a slowdown in business, quarantine or governing bodies suspending all non-essential treatments.

We know that in this difficult time there is much stress and anxiety for small businesses and for independent health care practitioners. We are looking to see what the provincial and federal government may provide for businesses. We encourage you to review the Government of Canada site for information on unemployment insurance.

Sincerely
The Complementary Health Team

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Coronavirus disease (COVID-19) – Employment and Social Development Canada

The Government of Canada will waive the one-week waiting period for people who are in quarantine or have been directed to self-isolate and are claiming for Employment Insurance (EI) sickness benefits, at an estimated cost of $5 million. The Government of Canada will also introduce enhancements to the Work-Sharing Program at an estimated cost of $12 million to help employers who are experiencing a downturn in business due to COVID-19, and their workers. We are exploring additional measures to support other affected Canadians, including income support for those that are not eligible for EI sickness benefits, click here.

Employment Insurance (EI) sickness benefits provide up to 15 weeks of income replacement and is available to eligible claimants who are unable to work because of illness, injury or quarantine, to allow them time to restore their health and return to work. Canadians quarantined can apply for Employment Insurance (EI) sickness benefits, click here.

-Government of New Brunsiwck Update, click here.

-PM says financial measures on the way to help ‘millions of Canadians’ get through COVID-19 crisis