ATCMA
ATCMA Member Guide: Questions to Ask Candidates in the 2026 BC Provincial Election
With the BC provincial election coming up on October 24, 2026, ATCMA has created this members-only resource to help you make an informed decision about the issues that matter to you, your patients, and our profession. As an ATCMA member, this is one of the many benefits of membership—providing you with information, tools, and resources to help you advocate for your TCM and acupuncture practice in BC. Use the questions and templates to connect with candidates in your riding and find out where they stand on the issues affecting our profession.
ATCMA Responds to CCHPBC Consultation on Herbal Medicine Clinical Practice Standard
ATCMA has submitted feedback to CCHPBC on the proposed Clinical Practice Standard for designing, compounding, and dispensing herbal medicines and natural health products. While ATCMA supports clear clinical standards for regulated professionals, the standard does not address the underlying concern about who is legally authorized to prescribe, design, compound, and dispense Chinese herbal formulas. TCM practitioners are encouraged to review the consultation and submit their own feedback by October 9, 2026.
Chinese Herbal Formula Prescribing: The BC Government’s New Q&A
The BC Government has released a new Q&A clarifying the current status of Chinese herbal formula prescribing under the HPOA. While the Q&A confirms that TCM professionals have not lost the ability to prescribe, compound or dispense Chinese herbal formulas, ATCMA’s key concern—ensuring unregulated individuals cannot prescribe these specialized remedies—remains unresolved.
ATCMA Presents Recommendations to BC Government Special Committee to Review Provisions of the Insurance (Vehicle) Act
Dr. Melissa Carr, ATCMA Executive Director, recently presented on behalf of the British Columbia Association of Traditional Chinese Medicine and Acupuncture Practitioners to the BC government’s Special Committee to Review Provisions of the Insurance (Vehicle) Act, i.e., ICBC.
Special Workshop Offer for ATCMA Members & BC TCM/Acupuncture Students
Looking to increase your visibility, build your professional presence, and grow your practice? Traditional Chine Medicine Ontario Association (TCMO) is hosting an upcoming virtual workshop with Dr. Eileen Li, and they are extending the course discount to ATCMA members and BC TCM students!
A Valuable Research Resource for TCM Practitioners: KPU Library Access
Continuing education and access to reliable research are important parts of professional practice for TCM professionals. KPU Library offers BC residents access to valuable electronic and print resources, including health-related databases and books—and you don’t have to be a KPU student to use them! A huge thank you to Lisa Hubrick, Acquisitions & Collections and Faculty of Health Liaison Librarian, for putting this helpful information together for ATCMA members.
Celebrate Allied Health Professionals Day 2026
October 14 is Allied Health Professionals Day, an opportunity to recognize and celebrate the important contributions of allied health professionals across BC. ATCMA encourages members to nominate outstanding TCM practitioners, acupuncturists, educators, preceptors, researchers, leaders, and teams for the 2026 Allied Health Professionals Day Awards, with nominations open until October 9.
Starting Your TCM Career? ATCMA Wants to Make Membership Easier.
Starting a career in TCM and acupuncture is exciting, but we know the early years can also come with a long list of expenses and challenges. That’s why ATCMA is making membership even more accessible for students and new practitioners. Because being part of your professional association and supporting the future of our profession shouldn’t be another financial burden.
President's Report September 2026
Summer may be a quieter time for many, but behind the scenes, ATCMA has continued working hard on behalf of our members and the future of Traditional Chinese Medicine in British Columbia. From advocacy and regulatory discussions to building relationships and advancing important priorities for our profession, there has been no shortage of activity.
In this update, ATCMA President, Dr. Chris Vallee, shares a look at the work taking place behind the scenes, the progress being made, and what lies ahead as we continue working together to strengthen and advance TCM in BC.
Marketing Tips for TCM Practitioners: Building Trust, Educating Patients, and Growing TCM Ethically
Marketing your practice is about more than attracting new patients. It’s about helping people understand TCM, building trust, communicating your professional value, and making it easier for patients to find appropriate care. This practical guide explores ethical and effective ways TCM professionals can market their practices while supporting the reputation of the profession
How to Set Up a TCM/Acupuncture Practice – A practical guide
How to Set Up a TCM/Acupuncture Practice – A practical guide covering key considerations for establishing and operating a professional practice in British Columbia, including business setup, clinic operations, compliance, and professional resources.