About Us

The British Columbia Naturopathic Doctors (BCND) is the professional association representing over 800 licensed naturopathic doctors (NDs) across the province. Our mission is to advance the practice of naturopathic medicine by advocating for greater access to care, expanding professional scope, and ensuring the highest standards of patient care. We support NDs through government engagement, professional development, and collaboration with other healthcare providers to enhance holistic, patient-centered care. Our work focuses on improving public health, promoting sustainable healthcare solutions, and ensuring NDs are recognized as valuable contributors to BC’s healthcare system.

About NDs​

  • Naturopathic medicine has been regulated under BC legislation since 1936.
  • Naturopathic doctors (NDs) in BC are regulated by the College of Naturopathic Physicians of BC at present and soon to be by the amalgamated College of Complementary Health Professionals of British Columbia (after June 2024).
  • At present there are over 800 licensed NDs practising in British Columbia. BC NDs have among the most extensive scope of practice for naturopathic doctors in Canada including, the ability to diagnose as well as prescribing authority, the ability to administer vaccinations and order blood tests.
  • NDs undergo a comprehensive and extensive four-year training program and must pass national exams prior to licensing.
  • NDs treat patients holistically, understanding the social, economic, and environmental aspects that impact health.
  • According to a 2022 survey conducted by BCND, over one-third of British Columbians live in a household where someone has or is seeing an ND.
  • The same survey indicated that the majority of British Columbians understand that NDs provide a complementary service to conventional medicine and that a majority of people support scope expansion for NDs to include ordering labs and imaging.

NDs Offer Solutions​

  • With an extensive scope of practice grounded in holistic health and disease prevention, NDs are well-positioned to alleviate burdens associated with shortages in primary care.
  • NDs offer many regenerative options for orthopedic conditions that may be a welcome alternative to conventional and sometimes riskier pain medication. These include including acupuncture and proliferative injection therapy which include the use of platelet-rich plasma.
  • NDs work with patients to help them advocate for their care, particularly important in an over-burdened health system. NDs across the province work in collaboration with medical professionals including medical doctors and nurse practitioners who appreciate an integrated and collaborative approach to care that benefits patients.
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Mission

The BCND advances naturopathic medicine in British Columbia. We conduct business which results in success for our members.

Vision

The BCND vision is to promote naturopathic medicine as well as improve the way health care is delivered in BC. We provide comprehensive and innovative tools to support the growth and success of our naturopathic doctors.

BCND Bylaws

The BCND bylaws can be viewed and downloaded by clicking here.

BCND Strategic Plan 2025-27

The BCND Strategic Plan 2025-27 can be viewed and downloaded by clicking here.