Answers for patients and the public about acupuncture, regulation, and finding care in Ontario. Items marked as pending review will be updated when approved by the Board.
Answer pending Board review. TCM includes acupuncture, herbal medicine, tuina, and related modalities practised by registered professionals in Ontario under the Traditional Chinese Medicine Act, 2006.
Answer pending Board review. Both are registered with the College (CTCMPAO). An R.Ac is a Registered Acupuncturist. An R.TCMP is a Registered Traditional Chinese Medicine Practitioner, with a broader scope that includes diagnosis and additional TCM modalities. Training requirements differ; both require substantial formal education.
Yes. Acupuncture and Traditional Chinese Medicine are regulated professions in Ontario. Only practitioners registered with the College of Traditional Chinese Medicine Practitioners and Acupuncturists of Ontario (CTCMPAO) may practise legally. You can verify a practitioner’s registration on the College website.
Use our Find a Practitioner directory to search TCMO members who have chosen to list their practice. Always confirm current registration with the College before booking care.
Answer pending Board review. A registered practitioner will take a health history and explain their approach before treatment. Specifics vary by practitioner and modality.
No. TCMO (Traditional Chinese Medicine Ontario) is a voluntary professional association that advocates for and supports practitioners. The College (CTCMPAO) is the regulatory body that licenses practitioners, sets standards, and handles complaints. Registration and discipline are College matters, not TCMO’s.