For reflexology work to be taken seriously, reflexologists will need to develop their own model. To utilize the trappings of other professions is to signal weak professionalism. Using the vocabulary and techniques of another profession serves to weaken any profession. The scope of practice of the reflexologist, thus, becomes to realign the bones in the foot. A broad or undefined scope of practice results in the loss of income and additional expenses.
Insurance companies follow distinct policies when determining payment for any services.
Malpractice insurance rates rise without a defined practice. With a very broad scope of practice, insurance companies may refuse the risk of insuring the practice. The practitioner is placed in legal jeopardy. The legal expenses of defending oneself from the charge of practicing a licensed profession or a civil case filed by a client for practicing outside of a scope of practice can be crippling. The addition of extensions to reflexology practice creates the question of whether or not one is actually a practicing reflexologist.