Scope Expansion

As British Columbia’s healthcare system evolves to address increasing demand and workforce shortages, NDs are ready to play a larger role. Highly trained and regulated, NDs are already providing comprehensive, patient-centred care across the province. However, outdated regulations limit their ability to fully meet the needs of their patients and the health system. BCND is actively advocating for a modernized scope of practice that empowers NDs to contribute more meaningfully to BC’s healthcare priorities—improving access, reducing wait times, and supporting integrated, team-based care.

Our Approach

BCND’s Scope of Practice Committee—a dedicated group of naturopathic doctors—is working hard to clearly articulate how the profession’s scope needs to evolve. Drawing on their deep clinical experience and understanding of today’s healthcare challenges, the committee is developing a thoughtful, evidence-based proposal that reflects patient needs and the realities of practice in BC. Their work ensures that naturopathic doctors are positioned as an essential part of BC’s healthcare landscape.

Key Areas of Focus for Scope Expansion

We are pursuing enhancements in these critical areas to support better patient care and a more responsive healthcare system. Some of these areas include:

  • Access to Diagnostic Imaging – NDs should be able to directly requisition X-rays, ultrasounds, CT scans, and MRIs. Removing unnecessary referral barriers will speed up diagnosis and treatment, particularly for patients managing chronic conditions.
  • Expanded Prescriptive Authority – BCND is advocating for NDs to be authorized to prescribe federally controlled substances, testosterone, DHEA, PrEP for HIV prevention, and other essential medications. Expanding prescriptive authority will ensure patients receive timely, comprehensive care without unnecessary delays.
  • Intracavernosal Injections – This treatment for erectile dysfunction and prostate-related issues should be available through NDs. Expanding this service will improve access and quality of life for patients requiring this care.
  • Specialist Referrals and Hospital Privileges – Allowing NDs to directly refer patients to medical specialists, community health programs, and to hold limited hospital privileges will ensure smoother transitions of care and better integration within the broader healthcare system.
  • Use of Therapeutic and Medical Devices – Enabling NDs to use therapeutic lasers and other medical devices for pain management, wound healing, and dermatological treatments will provide patients with more timely and non-invasive options for care.

Why Scope Expansion Matters

  • Improved Access to Care – Expanded scope ensures more British Columbians, especially in underserved communities, receive timely diagnosis, treatment, and management for a variety of health concerns.
  • Better Patient Outcomes – By removing barriers to care, NDs can offer seamless, comprehensive services that reduce the need for multiple providers and fragmented care.
  • Support for BC’s Healthcare Priorities – Scope expansion aligns with the government’s commitment to expanding primary care, reducing wait times, and addressing the healthcare workforce shortage.
  • Efficient Use of the ND Workforce – NDs are ready to step up and be part of the solution to BC’s healthcare challenges. Recognizing their training and expertise through expanded scope is an opportunity to leverage an existing, regulated workforce.

BCND’s Commitment

Through the leadership of our Scope of Practice Committee, BCND is working closely with partners to advance a comprehensive, evidence-based proposal for scope expansion. We are committed to ensuring naturopathic doctors can deliver the full range of services their patients need; safely, effectively, and in alignment with BC’s vision for accessible, team-based care.

By expanding the scope of practice for NDs, we can build a stronger, more accessible healthcare system that works for everyone.