Advocacy Matters: Building on Decades of Progress for TCM and Acupuncture in British Columbia

Many of the advances enjoyed by Traditional Chinese Medicine (TCM) and acupuncture professionals today are the result of years of dedicated advocacy by members of the profession who recognized the importance of having a strong collective voice.

One such milestone occurred nearly two decades ago. In 2007, TCM leaders, including our current ATCMA president, Dr. Chris Vallee, Dr. Michael Chung, and other advocates working alongside the QATCMA and board members John Lee and Harvey Hu, presented to the Ministry of Health in support of public coverage for acupuncture services. Their efforts contributed to a significant achievement in 2008 when the Province of British Columbia added acupuncture to the MSP Supplementary Benefits program (previously called “Premium Assistance”).

This change represented an important step forward, improving access to acupuncture services for eligible British Columbians while recognizing the valuable role that TCM and acupuncture practitioners play within the healthcare system. It also helped establish a foundation for future coverage through programs such as ICBC and WorkSafeBC.

Today, the need for advocacy remains as important as ever.

ATCMA Presented on Improving MSP coverage for TCM

Recently, Dr. Vallee was invited to present to the BC Government's Select Standing Committee on Finance and Government Services. The presentation highlighted a concerning reality that more than 20 years after acupuncture was added to MSP Supplementary Benefits, the program has seen little modernization and benefit levels have not kept pace with rising healthcare costs.

At the same time, British Columbia continues to face significant healthcare challenges. Long wait times, increasing demands on the healthcare system, and barriers to accessing care continue to affect many residents, particularly those with limited financial resources.

Dr. Vallee asked the government to:

• modernize reimbursement levels and visit limits so the program provides meaningful support to patients.
• expand eligibility thresholds so more vulnerable British Columbians can access care, including seniors, children, and those without extended health coverage.
• establish regular reviews of the program so reimbursement rates and eligibility criteria do not remain stagnant for decades at a time.
• include the scope of practice for TCM licensees, not just "acupuncture" needling services.

TCM and acupuncture practitioners are uniquely positioned to help address some of these challenges. By providing accessible care for pain management, injury recovery, chronic health concerns, preventive care, and overall wellness, the profession can play an important role in supporting healthier communities while helping reduce pressure on other parts of the healthcare system.

This is why the advocacy work of the ATCMA remains so critical. Progress does not happen on its own. Meaningful change requires ongoing engagement with government, regulators, the college, and other stakeholders to ensure that the profession's voice is heard and that the needs of both practitioners and patients are represented.

The strength of that voice depends on the support and participation of the profession itself.

How Members Can Help

1. Volunteer

The ATCMA's advocacy efforts are supported by dedicated volunteers who contribute their time, expertise, and experience. Members interested in supporting the profession are encouraged to contact the Association and explore volunteer opportunities.

2. Join ATCMA and Encourage Membership 

A strong membership base strengthens the ATCMA’s ability to advocate effectively on behalf of practitioners. Colleagues who benefit from advancements in areas such as ICBC coverage, fee advocacy, and professional representation are encouraged to support those efforts through membership.

4. Consider Board Service

The future of the profession depends on engaged leaders who are willing to contribute their perspectives and help guide advocacy priorities. Serving on the Board offers an opportunity to make a meaningful impact on the future of TCM and acupuncture in British Columbia.

Looking Forward

The progress achieved over the past two decades demonstrates what is possible when practitioners come together with a shared purpose. As healthcare continues to evolve, the profession must continue to advocate for improved access, fair compensation, modernized policies, and greater recognition of the value TCM and acupuncture bring to British Columbians.

Together, the profession can continue building on past successes and creating new opportunities for practitioners and the patients they serve.