For The Public

Registrants are expected to maintain high ethical standards and uphold the College’s practice standards, ethical code and bylaws.
Professional misconduct may include:

• Failure to meet clinical standards

• Breach of boundaries with clients

• Abuse of authority or trust

Acupuncturists must acknowledge that a power imbalance exists in all therapeutic relationships and must take steps to minimize it through respectful, client-centered care.

Sexual misconduct is strictly prohibited and includes:

• Sexual relations between a registrant and a client

• Inappropriate sexual touching

• Sexualized comments or behaviour toward a client

CAPEI has zero tolerance for sexual misconduct. Any violation of trust or abuse of power in a therapeutic relationship will result in disciplinary action.

What kinds of complaints can be investigated?
Only concerns relating to professional conduct, competence, or breaches of regulation or ethics by a registered acupuncturist fall within the College’s mandate. Business disputes or compensation claims are not handled by the College.

Can I make an anonymous complaint?
No. Complaints must be submitted in writing and must include your full name and contact information. Anonymous complaints will not be accepted.

1. Submit a written complaint to the College.
2. The Registrar reviews the complaint and may attempt informal resolution.
3. If unresolved, the matter is referred to the Investigation Committee.

The Committee may:

• Dismiss the complaint

• Resolve it informally

• Reach a formal agreement with the registrant

• Refer the matter to the Discipline Committee for a hearing

The complainant and the registrant are kept informed throughout the process.

As a College established under the Regulated Health Professions Act of PEI, registrants may:

• Perform the following authorized controlled acts:

1. Perform a procedure on the tissue below the dermis or the surface of a mucous membrane while performing acupuncture.

2. Diagnose a disease, disorder, or condition using Traditional Chinese Medicine theory, treatment principles and methodology, and communicate the diagnosis in circumstances in which it is reasonably foreseeable that it will be relied on in decisions respecting acupuncture treatment.

• Exclusively uses the protected title(s) of “Acupuncturist” and designation of “R. Ac”.

• Hold him/herself out as a member of the CAPEI.

Unauthorized use of these titles or acts may result in legal action. If you suspect someone is practising without registration, please contact the College promptly.

To file a complaint, please contact the College Registrar by email to request a complaint form. Complete the form and submit it it to the College Registrar for review.