The Chief Medical Officer of Health has updated Directive 2 for Health Care Providers to state that all non-emergent and non-urgent surgeries and procedures must cease. It is the College’s position at this time that this change to Directive 2 does not impact Registered TCM Practitioners and Acupuncturists.
Our understanding, as confirmed in discussions with other regulatory partners, is that this version of Directive 2 is not intended to stop all non-urgent health care services. The College has asked for clarification of the Directive. For now, there will be no change or restriction to the current scope of practice for TCM Practitioners and Acupuncturists.
The College would like to remind TCM Practitioners and Acupuncturists that Directive 2 requires health care professionals to consider which health services can be provided remotely, and which can be provided in-person with appropriate hazard controls and sufficient PPE. Practitioners should be carefully considering which of their services can be provided remotely to help reduce the risk of spreading COVID-19. Please see the College’s telepractice position statement for more information.
Following the requirements set out by the Chief Medical Officer of Health, the Ministry of Health, and the College’s COVID-19 Return to Practice Guidance will help reduce the risk of infection to your patients, your staff, and yourself. We thank TCM Practitioners and Acupuncturists for their continued efforts in following these requirements.
We encourage practitioners to reach out to the College with any practice and regulation related questions at info@ctcmpao.on.ca, and to check the College website regularly for any future updates. CTCMPAO will continue to review evolving guidance and will update TCM Practitioners and Acupuncturists if the situation changes.
Related Resources:
Directive 2
COVID-19 Operational Requirements: Health Sector Restart
COVID-19 Return to Practice Guidance
Return to Practice Guidance – One Page Summary
