ATCMA Advocacy
Canadians Want Change in Health Care. Traditional Chinese Medicine Can Be Part of the Solution.
A new national survey shows that Canadians want meaningful health system change, including better access to care, shorter wait times, and greater use of qualified healthcare professionals. This article explores how Registered Traditional Chinese Medicine practitioners and acupuncturists can help meet those goals through preventive care, patient education, pain management, and collaborative healthcare models, while highlighting key policy changes that could strengthen access to TCM services in British Columbia.
Advocacy Matters: Building on Decades of Progress for TCM and Acupuncture in British Columbia
Many of the advances that TCM and acupuncture practitioners benefit from today did not happen by chance—they were achieved through years of advocacy and professional engagement. Dr. Vallee, ATCMA's president, recently presented to the BC government's budget committee on behalf of the TCM profession.
ATCMA Advocacy and Profession Update
Traditional Chinese Medicine and acupuncture in British Columbia continue to face significant regulatory, professional, and healthcare system changes. As these conversations evolve, the ATCMA remains actively engaged in advocacy, collaboration, education, and member support to help strengthen and advance the profession. Below are some of the key areas we are currently focused on.
ATCMA Survey May 2026 Scope of Practice and Regulations
ATCMA is inviting TCM practitioners in BC to complete a survey on the recent HPOA regulatory changes and their impact on practice, costs, and scope. The feedback will help guide future advocacy efforts and support discussions with government and stakeholders. Please complete the survey by May 30, 2026.
Urgent Action Needed: Parliament Votes Tomorrow on Natural Health Product Access
Healthcare practitioners across Canada face a critical moment for patient care. Parliament is voting this week on Bill C-224, which would restore appropriate regulation for Natural Health Products (NHPs) including herbal medicines, nutritional supplements, and traditional formulas. Since 2023, these low-risk products have been subjected to the same enforcement framework as pharmaceutical drugs—with penalties up to $5 million per day—threatening both practitioner supply chains and patient access to essential natural health options. Your voice as a healthcare professional can make the difference in this crucial vote scheduled for March 11.
ATCMA Leadership Meets with Ministry of Health: Positive Discussions About TCM Regulations and Scope of Practice
We're pleased to share an update on ATCMA's recent productive meeting with the Ministry of Health regarding Traditional Chinese Medicine regulations and scope of practice developments in British Columbia.
ATCMA Update: ICBC Fee Adjustments and Continued Advocacy Efforts
We're pleased to share important updates from the Insurance Corporation of British Columbia (ICBC) that directly impact our Traditional Chinese Medicine and Acupuncture community, along with an overview of ATCMA's ongoing advocacy efforts on your behalf.
HPOA Implementation: What to Know Before April 1
With the Health Professions and Occupations Act (HPOA) coming into effect on April 1, 2026, regulatory changes will impact multiple health professions across British Columbia. To help ensure practitioners feel informed, prepared, and confident, the ATCMA is joining forces with our colleagues in the naturopathic, RMT, and chiropractic professions for a collaborative webinar. Attendance is limited to ATCMA members.
National Collaboration: ATCMA Meets with TCM Leaders Across Canada
ATCMA recently met with TCM association leaders from Alberta, Ontario, and Quebec to discuss shared national priorities. From coordinated promotion efforts to federal student grant concerns, this growing collaboration reflects a united commitment to strengthening and protecting the profession across Canada.
NNHPD Cost Recovery & Labelling Changes: ATCMA Advocating for the TCM Profession
Health Canada’s NNHPD is consulting on proposed cost recovery measures and labelling changes that could significantly impact TCM herbal products. ATCMA is actively engaging key stakeholders to assess the implications and ensure the profession’s voice is represented throughout this regulatory process.