31 Mar Naprapathy May Soon be Regulated in Another State
The province of British Columbia has recently transformed how health professions are regulated, and in my view, this is a very positive step forward.
Traditionally in Canada, each profession is responsible for regulating itself. While this can support professional standards, it often leads to limited access, as professions may use this authority to restrict entry and control numbers.
British Columbia has shifted toward a model that more closely resembles the system in the United States. In the U.S., health professions are largely regulated at the state level, with oversight provided by state-appointed bodies. BC is moving in a similar direction, where governance is handled more by public appointees rather than elected members of the profession.
I appreciate the U.S. approach because it tends to encourage inclusivity. There is a stronger focus on job creation and accessibility, making it easier for qualified individuals to enter the workforce compared to the more restrictive systems often seen in Canada.
For example, naprapathy is currently being considered for inclusion under naturopathy regulation in one U.S. state, and in two others, regulatory boards are exploring pathways to accept our graduates from related professions who complete additional training. These kinds of opportunities arise because US regulatory bodies are flexible & motivated to expand access and support workforce growth—benefiting both practitioners, the country and the public.
I understand that many regulatory boards in BC are dissatisfied with these changes. However, I believe this transition ultimately serves the public interest. With fewer, broader regulatory bodies overseeing multiple professions, the system becomes more inclusive, efficient, and easier to navigate.
Overall, this is a commendable move by the government of British Columbia.
Dr. Shawn Pourgol, MBA, DC, DO, DN, PhD
Osteopath, Naprapath, Chiropractor & Founder of:
National Academy of Osteopathy (Canada, USA)
National University of Medical Sciences (USA, Spain, Panama)
Osteopathy Chronic Pain Clinics of Canada (380 clinics in 34 countries)
Florida Naprapathic Association
World Osteopathy Day