Immunization
Naturopathic physicians in British Columbia may only prescribe and administer vaccines if they are certified to do so.
To access the courses, naturopathic physicians will need to create an account on LearningHub and then search for the Immunization Competency Course for RNs and RPNs or the Immunization Competency Course for Pharmacists and Other Health Professionals. Administrative help and support for the courses will be available through the LearningHub site.
Registrants who complete the Immunization Competency Course for RNs and RPNs or the Immunization Competency Course for Pharmacists and Other Health Professionals are eligible to claim 15 hours of continuing education credits under Category F – Prescribing Authority.
CNPBC Limits and Conditions
Registrants must hold certification in Immunization and Prescriptive Authority prior to prescribing or administering vaccines. Registrants must follow decision support tools established by the BC Centre for Disease Control when administering vaccines.
Naturopathic physicians only compound, dispense, or administer immunoprophylactic agents identified by the BC Centre for Disease Control (BCCDC).
Registrants must not administer an immunization to a child under five (5) years old.
Certification Requirements
In order to apply for certification to administer vaccines, naturopathic physicians must:
- Have the status of full registration under s. 46 of the College’s Bylaws;
- Be certified in Prescriptive Authority; and
- Have completed the BCCDC online immunization competency course (see link, above).
Application Process
Once registrants have successfully fulfilled the qualification requirements, they may apply to the College for certification to administer vaccines by submitting proof of certification requirements to the College office within one year of taking the course and a declaration that they have read and understand the College’s Standards, Limits and Conditions for immunization.
Applications will be reviewed by the College as they are received, and qualified applicants will be notified of their five-year certification, which must be received prior to providing vaccination services.