North Okanagan massage therapist who promoted ivermectin gets fined

A North Okanagan massage therapist who recommended a patient take ivermectin has been fined $350.

According to a recently published April 8 College of Complementary Health Professions of BC decision, Lumby massage therapist Teresa Cleverly told a patient how to get hold of ivermectin and fenbendazole.

“Providing such information in relation to any drug is outside the scope of practice for registered massage therapists,” the regulator said in the decision. “In this case, the drugs had also not been approved for human use by Health Canada.”

The decision said in July 2024, Cleverly gave a patient information about how to get ivermectin and fenbendazole, and what doses to take.

After the patient complained to the regulator, Cleverly then made changes to her medical records when she found out it was investigating.

During the pandemic, ivermectin became high profile and was touted, without scientific evidence, as a COVID-19 miracle drug. Fenbendazole, which is used to treat parasites in animals, has followed suit as a cure for cancer. 

The College said Cleverly did not make notes in her patient’s file that she had recommended the use of the drugs but later made changes to the treatment records.

“But she did not record the changes as a late entry,” the decision read.

The College issued a $350 fine, and Cleverly will have to pay costs of $350.

Cleverly signed a consent agreement admitting to her conduct.

“Providing information to patients about obtaining and dosing drugs is outside the scope of practice of a Registered Massage Therapist and presents a risk to patient safety, in particular where, as here, the drugs had not been approved for human consumption,” the regulator said.

Altering patient records without properly recording the alteration is contrary to regulatory bylaws.

“(It) represents a failure to adhere to professional and ethical obligations,” the College said.

On top of the fine, Cleverly will have to undergo “intensive” remedial coursework on professional ethics.

Cleverly’s Facebook page says she works at Silver Hills Wellness Centre in Lumby.