How can acupuncture be incorporated into the health care system?

The integration of acupuncture into today's health care delivery system will be made possible by an improved understanding among providers of the language and practices of both the traditional and conventional health care communities. Acupuncture focuses on a holistic, energy-based approach to the patients rather than a disease-oriented diagnostic and treatment model.



An imperative step for the integration of acupuncture into the contemporary health care system is the training and credentialing of acupuncture practitioners by the appropriate local agencies. This is imperative to allow the general public and other health practitioners to identify qualified acupuncturists. The acupuncture educational bodies have made impressive progress in this area and is encouraged to continue along this path. Educational criteria have been established for teaching of physician and non-physician acupuncturists. Many acupuncture educational programs are accredited by an organization that is recognized by the U.S. Department of Education. A national credentialing agency is there for non-physician acupuncturists and offers examinations for qualification of acupuncture practice. A nation-wide recognized exam for physician acupuncture practitioners has been established.

Most of States offer licensure or registration for acupuncture practice. Since some acupuncture practitioners have inadequate English ability, credentialing and licensing examinations should be offered in languages other than English where needed. There is deviation in the titles that are conferred in these processes, and the prerequisites to obtain licensure differ substantially. The scope of practice allowed under these State requirements varies as well. Although States have the individual prerogative to set standards for licensing professions, consistency in these areas will provide greater confidence in the qualifications of acupuncture practitioners. For instance, not all States recognize the same credentialing exam, therefore making reciprocity difficult.



The occurrence of adverse events in acupuncture practice has been reported to be extremely low. However, such events have happened on rare occasions, some of which are life-threatening (e.g., pneumothorax). As a result, appropriate safeguards for the protection of public interest have to be in position. Consumers should be fully informed of their treatment options, expected prognosis, relative risk, and safety practices to minimize these risks before their receipt of acupuncture. This information must be offered in a way that is linguistically and culturally appropriate to the patients. Use of acupuncture needles should always be consistent with FDA regulations, including use of sterile, single-use needles. It is known that these practices are already being done by many acupuncturists; however, these practices should be standardized.



It has been reported that more than one million Americans currently accept acupuncture procedure each year. Sustained access to well trained acupuncture practitioners for appropriate conditions need to be ensured. Because numerous individuals seek health care treatment from both acupuncturists and physicians, communication between these providers need to be reinforced and enhanced. If a patient is under the care of an acupuncturist and a physician, both practitioners should be informed. Both patients and providers should be responsible for facilitating this communication.



There is evidence that some consumers have limited access to acupuncture services due to lack of ability to pay. Insurance companies can reduce financial hurdles to access depending on their willingness to provide coverage for appropriate acupuncture services. An increasing number of insurance companies are either considering this possibility or now provide coverage for acupuncture services. In States where there health insurance plans, and for people served by Medicare or Medicaid, expansion of coverage to include appropriate acupuncture services would also help decrease financial barriers to access.

The website of Britannia Acupuncture Clinic will provide you with more information about acupuncture practice.