Cost: the MSP supplement of $23 a visit
MSP does not cover traditional Chinese medicine. Residents with adjusted household net income under $42,000 can apply for MSP supplementary benefits: $23 per visit, up to 10 visits a year across acupuncture, physiotherapy, massage, chiropractic and similar services combined. You must apply to MSP first. A clinic may charge more than $23 but must tell you in advance.[4]
How TCM is regulated in BC
BC was the first Canadian province to regulate traditional Chinese medicine by law. In April 1996 acupuncture was brought under the Health Professions Act and a college of acupuncturists was set up; in December 2000 TCM was added.[1]
In June 2024 the former TCM and acupuncture college merged with the colleges for chiropractors, massage therapists and naturopathic physicians to form CCHPBC, the College of Complementary Health Professionals of BC.[1][3]
Four licence types
| Licence | Meaning |
|---|---|
| R.Ac. | Registered acupuncturist |
| R.TCM.H. | Registered TCM herbalist |
| R.TCM.P. | Registered TCM practitioner (acupuncture plus herbs) |
| Dr.TCM | Registered TCM practitioner who has completed doctoral-level coursework |
Categories follow CCHPBC's description of licence classes.[2]
How to check before a visit
- Go to the CCHPBC website and open the Registry.[2]
- Search the practitioner's name and confirm the licence is current and which category it is.
- If you cannot find the name, ask the clinic or contact CCHPBC directly.
Patent medicines and herbal products
In Canada, Chinese patent medicines and herbal products are regulated by Health Canada under the natural health product rules. Authorized products carry an NPN (Natural Product Number) followed by 8 digits on the label, and the number can be looked up in Health Canada's database.[5]
When to see a medical doctor
A TCM licence does not include prescribing Western prescription drugs. Chest pain, a high fever that does not settle, or anything that needs imaging or blood tests should be assessed by a family doctor, walk-in clinic or emergency department.