http://www.alternative-healthcare.com/ Information for Alternative Health Care Consumers and Professionals en Copyright 2007 Sun, 05 Mar 2006 08:55:25 -0800 http://www.sixapart.com/movabletype/?v=3.2 http://blogs.law.harvard.edu/tech/rss CALIFORNIA DEPARTMENT OF CONSUMER AFFAIRS EXECUTIVE OFFICE 400 R STREET SACRAMENTO, CA 95814-6200 INTERNET: www.dca.ca.gov (916) 445-4465 FAX (916) 323-6639 DATE: June 20, 2005 TO: All Interested Parties FROM: CHARLENE ZETTEL Director, Department of Consumer Affairs SUBJECT: Clarification on the Recommendations of the Department of Consumer Affairs and Joint Committee on Boards Commissions and Consumer Protection to Transition the Board of Acupuncture to a Bureau The Department of Consumer Affairs (Department) is committed to supporting the profession of acupuncture. The ancient art of acupuncture has earned respect as a legitimate form of treatment. The Department continues to support the education,... http://www.alternative-healthcare.com/acupuncture/acupuncture-in-california/california-acupuncture-board/open-letter-regarding-acupuncture-board-sunset.html http://www.alternative-healthcare.com/acupuncture/acupuncture-in-california/california-acupuncture-board/open-letter-regarding-acupuncture-board-sunset.html California Acupuncture Board Sun, 05 Mar 2006 08:55:25 -0800 http://www.alternative-healthcare.com/acupuncture/acupuncture-in-california/little-hover-commission-2004/little-hoover-commission-september-30-2004.html http://www.alternative-healthcare.com/acupuncture/acupuncture-in-california/little-hover-commission-2004/little-hoover-commission-september-30-2004.html Little Hover Commission 2004 Sun, 05 Mar 2006 07:52:10 -0800 Regulation of Acupuncture: A Complementary Therapy Framework As a destination for dream seekers, California has inherited the treasures of cultures Occidental and Oriental. Predictably, government is occasionally required to arbitrate, even regulate, how some traditions and practices are used in the public interest. Such is the case of acupuncture and Oriental medicine, a healing art with ancient roots and modern branches. In 30 years, the State has evolved a full-scale professional regulatory scheme that licenses more than one in four acupuncturists in the United States. This practice has flourished in the Golden State in part because of Asian immigration and... http://www.alternative-healthcare.com/acupuncture/acupuncture-in-california/little-hover-commission-2004/executive-summary-underlying-tensions.html http://www.alternative-healthcare.com/acupuncture/acupuncture-in-california/little-hover-commission-2004/executive-summary-underlying-tensions.html Little Hover Commission 2004 Sun, 05 Mar 2006 06:48:55 -0800 Regulation of Acupuncture: A Complementary Therapy Framework To protect consumers, the State must regulate acupuncturists and other professionals by appropriately applying the following tools: A clear scope of practice. For the most part, the scope of practice for acupuncturists clearly focuses professionals on some of the traditional Oriental healing methods. Controversy, however, has arisen over their authority to diagnose patients and their role as primary care practitioners. In those aspects, clear statutory language is needed to affirm that consumers have direct access to acupuncturists who can diagnose patients using traditional Oriental techniques and should coordinate treatment and refer patients to... http://www.alternative-healthcare.com/acupuncture/acupuncture-in-california/little-hover-commission-2004/executive-summary-to-protect-consumers.html http://www.alternative-healthcare.com/acupuncture/acupuncture-in-california/little-hover-commission-2004/executive-summary-to-protect-consumers.html Little Hover Commission 2004 Sun, 05 Mar 2006 05:45:40 -0800 Regulation of Acupuncture: A Complementary Therapy Framework Finding 1: While the legal scope of practice clearly defines the modalities that acupuncturists can use, the statute is silent on issues that are important in defining their role as health care providers. To establish a sound regulatory scheme, policy-makers must clearly define the practice that the State intends to regulate. This legal "scope of practice" is the foundation on which health care regulation is built. The scope determines the minimal educational requirements that will be necessary for a practitioner to enter the field. The scope of practice defines the breadth of the... http://www.alternative-healthcare.com/acupuncture/acupuncture-in-california/little-hover-commission-2004/finding-and-recommendation-1.html http://www.alternative-healthcare.com/acupuncture/acupuncture-in-california/little-hover-commission-2004/finding-and-recommendation-1.html Little Hover Commission 2004 Sun, 05 Mar 2006 04:42:25 -0800 Regulation of Acupuncture: A Complementary Therapy Framework Finding 2: The new 3,000-hour educational requirement is adequate to prepare entry-level practitioners and to protect the public safety. A primary goal of educational requirements is to provide some assurance that professionals have the knowledge, skills and abilities necessary to safely practice the profession. And the standard for professional licensing is to ensure that incoming licensees can perform the legally authorized scope of practice as entry-level practitioners.2 Effective January 1, 2005, new students in acupuncture schools will need to complete 3,000 hours in training before they will be able to take the licensure... http://www.alternative-healthcare.com/acupuncture/acupuncture-in-california/little-hover-commission-2004/finding-and-recommendation-2.html http://www.alternative-healthcare.com/acupuncture/acupuncture-in-california/little-hover-commission-2004/finding-and-recommendation-2.html Little Hover Commission 2004 Sun, 05 Mar 2006 03:39:10 -0800 Regulation of Acupuncture: A Complementary Therapy Framework Finding 3: The steadily increasing educational requirements for new entrants into the acupuncture profession potentially creates different levels of competency, and could confuse or mislead the public regarding the knowledge, skills and ability of those previously licensed. Acupuncture Board regulations require practitioners to take 30 hours of continuing education every two years.4 However, when the new 3,000-hour standard goes into effect, many practicing acupuncturists will have been licensed with only 1,350 hours of training, and were licensed prior to the time that acupuncturists could practice independently of M.D.s and were allowed to make... http://www.alternative-healthcare.com/acupuncture/acupuncture-in-california/little-hover-commission-2004/finding-and-recommendation-3.html http://www.alternative-healthcare.com/acupuncture/acupuncture-in-california/little-hover-commission-2004/finding-and-recommendation-3.html Little Hover Commission 2004 Sun, 05 Mar 2006 02:35:55 -0800 Regulation of Acupuncture: A Complementary Therapy Framework Finding 4: The examination of candidates for licensure is a critical quality control measure for assuring competency of providers and is an essential mechanism for ensuring that evolving public policy goals are met. California's regulator has had difficulties with the acupuncture examination, including documented fraud and criminal charges during the 1980s that spawned security improvements that require continuous refinement. In debating improvements to the examination, policy-makers also have considered replacing the California test with the examination offered by the National Certification Commission for Acupuncture and Oriental Medicine. Most other California health professionals... http://www.alternative-healthcare.com/acupuncture/acupuncture-in-california/little-hover-commission-2004/finding-and-recommendation-4.html http://www.alternative-healthcare.com/acupuncture/acupuncture-in-california/little-hover-commission-2004/finding-and-recommendation-4.html Little Hover Commission 2004 Sun, 05 Mar 2006 01:32:40 -0800 Regulation of Acupuncture: A Complementary Therapy Framework Finding 5: The process used by the Accreditation Commission of Acupuncture and Oriental Medicine appears to be superior to the school approval process used by the Acupuncture Board and could be used by the State to ensure the quality of education for potential licensees. Prior to taking the California licensing exam, potential licensees must graduate from a school approved by the Acupuncture Board. In addition, schools also must be approved by California's Bureau of Private Postsecondary and Vocational Education, or similar bureaus in other states, which guard against diploma mills and fraudulent business... http://www.alternative-healthcare.com/acupuncture/acupuncture-in-california/little-hover-commission-2004/finding-and-recommendation-5.html http://www.alternative-healthcare.com/acupuncture/acupuncture-in-california/little-hover-commission-2004/finding-and-recommendation-5.html Little Hover Commission 2004 Sun, 05 Mar 2006 00:29:25 -0800 Regulation of Acupuncture: A Complementary Therapy Framework Finding 6: The California Acupuncture Board has missed significant opportunities to protect the public, particularly in the areas of consumer information and herb-related safety. Many of the specific issues that the Governor and the Legislature asked the Commission to review have festered because the Acupuncture Board too frequently acted as a venue for promoting rather than regulating the profession. As a result, the board has missed opportunities to protect the public by providing accurate and complete information about the therapies that licensees can provide. The board also has not adequately incorporated emerging scientific... http://www.alternative-healthcare.com/acupuncture/acupuncture-in-california/little-hover-commission-2004/finding-and-recommendation-6.html http://www.alternative-healthcare.com/acupuncture/acupuncture-in-california/little-hover-commission-2004/finding-and-recommendation-6.html Little Hover Commission 2004 Sat, 04 Mar 2006 23:26:10 -0800 Regulation of Acupuncture: A Complementary Therapy Framework Two bills passed by the Legislature and signed by the Governor in 2002 requested that the Little Hoover Commission assess and make recommendations on six issues concerning the regulation of acupuncture in California. The measures grew in part out of the Legislature's sunset review of the Acupuncture Board, which identified but did not resolve some issues of concern to policy-makers. The legislation also reflected an ongoing effort by some professional associations to raise minimum educational requirements for incoming professionals. To explore these issues, the Commission augmented its standard public, bipartisan and independent... http://www.alternative-healthcare.com/acupuncture/acupuncture-in-california/little-hover-commission-2004/introduction.html http://www.alternative-healthcare.com/acupuncture/acupuncture-in-california/little-hover-commission-2004/introduction.html Little Hover Commission 2004 Sat, 04 Mar 2006 22:22:55 -0800 Regulation of Acupuncture: A Complementary Therapy Framework Acupuncture originated in China over 2,000 years ago and has been used in Japan for 1,500 years.5 It was first described in Chinese literature in approximately 100 B.C. in The Inner Classic of the Yellow Emporer.6 Over time and with trade, the use of acupuncture spread throughout Asia, into Europe and beyond. By the 1600s acupuncture was discussed in European medical literature.7 Different countries and regions evolved different approaches to the use of acupuncture. For example, the Chinese evolved the use of electro-acupuncture, whereas the Japanese are known for a gentle approach... http://www.alternative-healthcare.com/acupuncture/acupuncture-in-california/little-hover-commission-2004/background.html http://www.alternative-healthcare.com/acupuncture/acupuncture-in-california/little-hover-commission-2004/background.html Little Hover Commission 2004 Sat, 04 Mar 2006 21:19:40 -0800 Regulation of Acupuncture: A Complementary Therapy Framework In the United States, acupuncture had been used primarily by Asian immigrants until President Nixon traveled to China and re-established diplomatic ties in 1972.13 Since that time, acupuncture has gained increasing acceptance with the public and the complementary medicine clinics of academic medical centers. In 2004, the National Center for Health Statistics at the U.S. Centers For Disease Control reported that 1.1 percent of the U.S. public had used acupuncture in the previous12 months and that 4 percent had used it at some time.14 Following President Nixon's visit to China, the U.S. Food... http://www.alternative-healthcare.com/acupuncture/acupuncture-in-california/little-hover-commission-2004/acupuncture-in-the-united-states.html http://www.alternative-healthcare.com/acupuncture/acupuncture-in-california/little-hover-commission-2004/acupuncture-in-the-united-states.html Little Hover Commission 2004 Sat, 04 Mar 2006 20:16:25 -0800 Regulation of Acupuncture: A Complementary Therapy Framework 1972 AB 1500 (Duffy) authorized "an unlicensed practitioner to practice acupuncture under the direct supervision of a licensed physician if conducted in an approved medical school for the sole purpose of scientific investigation."24 1975 SB 86 (Moscone-Song) authorized certification of acupuncturists. The measure also required a prior diagnosis and referral from a licensed physician and surgeon, dentist, podiatrist or chiropractor and required that at the completion of treatment, the acupuncturist was to report to the referring provider "the nature and effect of treatment." Certifications were authorized to be granted to applicants without taking... http://www.alternative-healthcare.com/acupuncture/acupuncture-in-california/little-hover-commission-2004/legalization-licensure-and-education-in-california.html http://www.alternative-healthcare.com/acupuncture/acupuncture-in-california/little-hover-commission-2004/legalization-licensure-and-education-in-california.html Little Hover Commission 2004 Sat, 04 Mar 2006 19:13:10 -0800 Regulation of Acupuncture: A Complementary Therapy Framework In the course of its study, the Commission identified a number of contextual issues important to formulating policies related to acupuncture.... http://www.alternative-healthcare.com/acupuncture/acupuncture-in-california/little-hover-commission-2004/context-for-policy-making-in-california.html http://www.alternative-healthcare.com/acupuncture/acupuncture-in-california/little-hover-commission-2004/context-for-policy-making-in-california.html Little Hover Commission 2004 Sat, 04 Mar 2006 18:09:55 -0800 Regulation of Acupuncture: A Complementary Therapy Framework Acupuncture is defined in law in terms of authorized modalities of treatment (e.g., needle therapy, herbal and nutrition therapy, etc.). However, the scientific evidence is evolving around which diseases or conditions can be successfully treated with particular modalities. In particular, NIH has found that acupuncture needle therapy is effective for "postoperative and chemotherapy nausea and vomiting and postoperative dental pain." Multiple promising studies are underway. For instance, Stanford University's psychiatry department has conducted a pilot study indicating that for women suffering from depression during pregnancy, acupuncture may hold promise as a safe treatment... http://www.alternative-healthcare.com/acupuncture/acupuncture-in-california/little-hover-commission-2004/conditions-vs-modalities-of-treatment.html http://www.alternative-healthcare.com/acupuncture/acupuncture-in-california/little-hover-commission-2004/conditions-vs-modalities-of-treatment.html Little Hover Commission 2004 Sat, 04 Mar 2006 17:06:40 -0800 Regulation of Acupuncture: A Complementary Therapy Framework One important example of where policy-makers have distinguished between modalities of treatment and appropriate conditions to be treated is cancer. However, during advisory committee meetings it was brought to the Commission's attention that there was some confusion among practitioners and the Acupuncture Board about the appropriateness of cancer patients receiving acupuncture. State law limits the specific treatment modalities that can be used to treat cancer and does not authorize acupuncture. However, the attorney for the Acupuncture Board and Department of Consumer Affairs reviewed the issue at the request of the Commission. In his... http://www.alternative-healthcare.com/acupuncture/acupuncture-in-california/little-hover-commission-2004/cancer-treatment.html http://www.alternative-healthcare.com/acupuncture/acupuncture-in-california/little-hover-commission-2004/cancer-treatment.html Little Hover Commission 2004 Sat, 04 Mar 2006 16:03:25 -0800 Regulation of Acupuncture: A Complementary Therapy Framework In SB 1951, the Legislature asked the Commission to: "Review and make recommendations on the scope of practice for acupuncturists." Finding 1: While the legal scope of practice clearly defines the modalities that acupuncturists can use, the statute is silent on issues that are important in defining their role as health care providers. The legal scope of practice is the foundation on which health care regulation is built. The scope determines the minimal educational requirements that will be necessary for a practitioner to enter the field. The scope of practice defines the breadth... http://www.alternative-healthcare.com/acupuncture/acupuncture-in-california/little-hover-commission-2004/scope-of-practice.html http://www.alternative-healthcare.com/acupuncture/acupuncture-in-california/little-hover-commission-2004/scope-of-practice.html Little Hover Commission 2004 Sat, 04 Mar 2006 15:00:10 -0800 Regulation of Acupuncture: A Complementary Therapy Framework When acupuncturists were first licensed in California in 1975, they could only see patients who had been diagnosed and referred by physicians. In 1979, lawmakers were concerned that physicians were not referring patients, and so eliminated the referral requirement, allowing patients to have direct access to acupuncturists. The following year, the Legislature created a committee separate from the Board of Medical Quality Assurance to license acupuncturists and it added to the list of modalities that could be used by acupuncturists, including the use of herbs. The Legislature also added the following "intent" language:... http://www.alternative-healthcare.com/acupuncture/acupuncture-in-california/little-hover-commission-2004/the-move-to-direct-access.html http://www.alternative-healthcare.com/acupuncture/acupuncture-in-california/little-hover-commission-2004/the-move-to-direct-access.html Little Hover Commission 2004 Sat, 04 Mar 2006 13:56:55 -0800 Regulation of Acupuncture: A Complementary Therapy Framework The ambiguity in the law emerges as a controversy in regard to the authority of acupuncturists to diagnose patients. Unlike the practice act for other health care professions, the acupuncture statute does not explicitly authorize the diagnosis of patients. However, in a series of legal opinions and memoranda, the Department of Consumer Affairs has concluded that in removing the physician referral requirement the Legislature implicitly gave acupuncturists the authority to diagnose patients before treating them.49 In early opinions, the department's attorneys concluded that acupuncturists could diagnose patients, but were limited to a traditional... http://www.alternative-healthcare.com/acupuncture/acupuncture-in-california/little-hover-commission-2004/the-debate-over-diagnosis.html http://www.alternative-healthcare.com/acupuncture/acupuncture-in-california/little-hover-commission-2004/the-debate-over-diagnosis.html Little Hover Commission 2004 Sat, 04 Mar 2006 12:53:40 -0800 Regulation of Acupuncture: A Complementary Therapy Framework In order to affirm whether acupuncturists can diagnose patients, policy-makers are confronted with the next issue : Are acupuncturists limited to traditional Oriental medicine, or an evolving blend of traditional Oriental medicine and modern biomedicine? While some in the profession want to stay focused on traditional practices (those included in the statute), other advocates are pushing for both a modern interpretation of how acupuncture affects the body, as well as access to modern technologies that were developed as part of the biomedical model. The intent language in statute refers to an "art and... http://www.alternative-healthcare.com/acupuncture/acupuncture-in-california/little-hover-commission-2004/and-which-diagnosis.html http://www.alternative-healthcare.com/acupuncture/acupuncture-in-california/little-hover-commission-2004/and-which-diagnosis.html Little Hover Commission 2004 Sat, 04 Mar 2006 11:50:25 -0800 Regulation of Acupuncture: A Complementary Therapy Framework Policy-makers will find it difficult to address one of these issues without addressing all of them. And without squarely dealing with the fundamental questions, the tensions will not be eased and the public will be denied the benefits that clarity will bring. To unravel the confusion, policy-makers will need to do the following: Clarify the role of acupuncturists in the health care system. The law should clarify that patients have direct access to acupuncturists. The statute also could go beyond a list of modalities to include disease-specific guidelines or limitations, such as those... http://www.alternative-healthcare.com/acupuncture/acupuncture-in-california/little-hover-commission-2004/unraveling-the-confusion.html http://www.alternative-healthcare.com/acupuncture/acupuncture-in-california/little-hover-commission-2004/unraveling-the-confusion.html Little Hover Commission 2004 Sat, 04 Mar 2006 10:47:10 -0800 Regulation of Acupuncture: A Complementary Therapy Framework Summary The existing scope of practice is both precise and insufficient. To provide an adequate framework, lawmakers will need to go beyond listing some traditional Oriental modalities to define in statute what is meant by traditional Oriental medicine. The policy choice to give patients direct access to acupuncturists was clear, but the statutory intent to regulate acupuncturists as a "primary care health care profession" is not. The term has many potential meanings. While some people may turn to acupuncturists first for everything that ails them (one potential meaning), it is difficult to see... http://www.alternative-healthcare.com/acupuncture/acupuncture-in-california/little-hover-commission-2004/scope-of-practice-summary-and-recommendation.html http://www.alternative-healthcare.com/acupuncture/acupuncture-in-california/little-hover-commission-2004/scope-of-practice-summary-and-recommendation.html Little Hover Commission 2004 Sat, 04 Mar 2006 09:43:55 -0800 Regulation of Acupuncture: A Complementary Therapy Framework In SB 1951, the Legislature asked the Commission to: "Review and make recommendations on the education requirements for acupuncturists." In AB 1943, the Legislature asked the Commission to: "Review increasing curriculum hours for the licensure of acupuncturists in excess of 3,000 hours up to 4,000 hours to fully and effectively provide health services under their scope of practice." Finding 2: The new 3,000-hour educational requirement is adequate to prepare entry-level practitioners and to protect the public safety. Requiring specific education and other training is one way that government regulators can establish minimum competencies... http://www.alternative-healthcare.com/acupuncture/acupuncture-in-california/little-hover-commission-2004/education.html http://www.alternative-healthcare.com/acupuncture/acupuncture-in-california/little-hover-commission-2004/education.html Little Hover Commission 2004 Sat, 04 Mar 2006 08:40:40 -0800 Regulation of Acupuncture: A Complementary Therapy Framework Between 1976 and 1978, when acupuncturists were first certified in California, approximately 900 practitioners with between two to five years of experience were "grandfathered" into licensure.63 Those with five years of experience (or three years if affiliated with approved medical school programs) were "grandfathered-in" without education or examination requirements. Those who could prove two years of experience were still required to take an examination, but did not need to present proof of education.64 From 1976 to 1984, board regulations required new practitioners who did not have two to five years of experience to... http://www.alternative-healthcare.com/acupuncture/acupuncture-in-california/little-hover-commission-2004/a-steady-increase-in-educational-requirements.html http://www.alternative-healthcare.com/acupuncture/acupuncture-in-california/little-hover-commission-2004/a-steady-increase-in-educational-requirements.html Little Hover Commission 2004 Sat, 04 Mar 2006 07:37:25 -0800 Regulation of Acupuncture: A Complementary Therapy Framework In raising the educational standard to 3,000 hours, the Legislature also opened the door to an even higher standard by asking the Commission to assess the need for 4,000 hours for acupuncturists to "fully and effectively provide health services under their scope of practice." Some proponents argue that an even greater increase in training is necessitated by patient safety issues, including lack of knowledge of "red flag" medical conditions, first-aid and CPR, herb-drug interactions and communicating with Western providers.72 But the persistent argument for raising the standards to 4,000 hours is based... http://www.alternative-healthcare.com/acupuncture/acupuncture-in-california/little-hover-commission-2004/arguments-for-going-beyond-3000-hours.html http://www.alternative-healthcare.com/acupuncture/acupuncture-in-california/little-hover-commission-2004/arguments-for-going-beyond-3000-hours.html Little Hover Commission 2004 Sat, 04 Mar 2006 06:34:10 -0800 Regulation of Acupuncture: A Complementary Therapy Framework As explained previously, the purpose of education is to ensure minimum competence. Raising educational standards - beyond what is required for public safety - can discourage or delay new entrants into the marketplace, resulting in higher fees and lower access for consumers. When regulations unnecessarily limit competition, the options available to consumers are diminished. An expert from the National Institutes of Health testified that there is no evidence indicating a need to raise education hours. He also stated that by doing so, consumer access could be unnecessarily restricted, particularly to promising addiction therapy.78... http://www.alternative-healthcare.com/acupuncture/acupuncture-in-california/little-hover-commission-2004/arguments-against-increasing-hours.html http://www.alternative-healthcare.com/acupuncture/acupuncture-in-california/little-hover-commission-2004/arguments-against-increasing-hours.html Little Hover Commission 2004 Sat, 04 Mar 2006 05:30:55 -0800 Regulation of Acupuncture: A Complementary Therapy Framework The increase in minimum educational standards - as well as the Acupuncture Board's implementation of those standards - raises a number of concerns that the board, officials with the Department of Consumer Affairs, or lawmakers may need to address. Schools might not have expertise. Most accredited colleges have not been required to teach human physiology and other courses grounded in Western science. Expanding into this area will present challenges to those schools and particular efforts need to be taken to ensure that quality teaching takes place.... http://www.alternative-healthcare.com/acupuncture/acupuncture-in-california/little-hover-commission-2004/implementation-concerns.html http://www.alternative-healthcare.com/acupuncture/acupuncture-in-california/little-hover-commission-2004/implementation-concerns.html Little Hover Commission 2004 Sat, 04 Mar 2006 04:27:40 -0800 Regulation of Acupuncture: A Complementary Therapy Framework While there are fervent efforts to increase the hours associated with preparation, there are other avenues for increasing preparation that may better serve students, patients and the public interest. Require prerequisite degrees. California could do as other states and adopt prerequisite standards to ensure that students have a grounding in Western health sciences. New Hampshire, for example, requires applicants for licensure to have either a bachelor's degree, nursing degree, or physician's assistant's license, in addition to completion of their acupuncture coursework.... http://www.alternative-healthcare.com/acupuncture/acupuncture-in-california/little-hover-commission-2004/implementation-opportunities.html http://www.alternative-healthcare.com/acupuncture/acupuncture-in-california/little-hover-commission-2004/implementation-opportunities.html Little Hover Commission 2004 Sat, 04 Mar 2006 03:24:25 -0800 Regulation of Acupuncture: A Complementary Therapy Framework Some stakeholders argued that California should raise its educational standards to match those in Asian schools. However, in Asia there are multiple paths for studying acupuncture, including tutorial, vocational, college and university training. 84 The education of acupuncturists and traditional practitioners in Asia is not significantly incorporated into the training in modern medical schools. Acupuncture in Asia is taught primarily in schools devoted to traditional practices. In addition, some modern medical schools have sections exploring the scientific application of acupuncture.85... http://www.alternative-healthcare.com/acupuncture/acupuncture-in-california/little-hover-commission-2004/perspectives-from-other-health-professions-and-nations.html http://www.alternative-healthcare.com/acupuncture/acupuncture-in-california/little-hover-commission-2004/perspectives-from-other-health-professions-and-nations.html Little Hover Commission 2004 Sat, 04 Mar 2006 02:21:10 -0800 Regulation of Acupuncture: A Complementary Therapy Framework Summary Until the new standards are implemented, and the performance of students assessed, there is no way of determining whether an increase in hours above the 3,000-hour standard is necessary - particularly if the scope of practice is focused on traditional Oriental medicine. But there are steps that can be taken to make sure that existing requirements are better preparing practitioners.... http://www.alternative-healthcare.com/acupuncture/acupuncture-in-california/little-hover-commission-2004/education-summary-and-recommendation.html http://www.alternative-healthcare.com/acupuncture/acupuncture-in-california/little-hover-commission-2004/education-summary-and-recommendation.html Little Hover Commission 2004 Sat, 04 Mar 2006 01:17:55 -0800 Regulation of Acupuncture: A Complementary Therapy Framework In AB 1943, the Legislature asked the Commission to: "Review the competence of licensed acupuncturists who are not subject to the 3,000-hour minimum curriculum requirement, and training, testing or continuing education that would be required for these individuals to meet the standards for continued licensure." Finding 3: The steadily increasing educational requirements for new entrants into the acupuncture profession potentially creates different levels of competency, and could confuse or mislead the public regarding the knowledge, skills and ability of those previously licensed.... http://www.alternative-healthcare.com/acupuncture/acupuncture-in-california/little-hover-commission-2004/continuing-education.html http://www.alternative-healthcare.com/acupuncture/acupuncture-in-california/little-hover-commission-2004/continuing-education.html Little Hover Commission 2004 Sat, 04 Mar 2006 00:14:40 -0800 Regulation of Acupuncture: A Complementary Therapy Framework Most health professions have tried to raise the standards for both new entrants, as well as seasoned professionals. The University of California identified several options: Additional coursework. Recommending or requiring educational programs to develop and implement "catch up" programs to enable practitioners to gain required competencies. Testing. Using test-out options to enable practitioners to demonstrate knowledge or skills in required competency areas for the purposes of acquiring updated training and credentials. Grace periods. Establishing a feasible schedule upon which supplemental education or examinations can be completed considering the professional responsibilities and workload of... http://www.alternative-healthcare.com/acupuncture/acupuncture-in-california/little-hover-commission-2004/raising-the-standards-for-all.html http://www.alternative-healthcare.com/acupuncture/acupuncture-in-california/little-hover-commission-2004/raising-the-standards-for-all.html Little Hover Commission 2004 Fri, 03 Mar 2006 23:11:25 -0800 Regulation of Acupuncture: A Complementary Therapy Framework There are persistent concerns that continuing education in many fields is ineffective, and there is no assurance that practitioners acquire specific skills. This is especially relevant for the California acupuncture profession, given that the push to increase educational requirements has been officially predicated on concerns that acupuncturists are unprepared to treat patients as independent practitioners. The Department of Consumer Affairs does not have strong rules for ensuring the quality of continuing education that could be applied for all professional boards. Among the concerns across the professions are: No examination. Regulators do not typically... http://www.alternative-healthcare.com/acupuncture/acupuncture-in-california/little-hover-commission-2004/concerns-about-continuing-education.html http://www.alternative-healthcare.com/acupuncture/acupuncture-in-california/little-hover-commission-2004/concerns-about-continuing-education.html Little Hover Commission 2004 Fri, 03 Mar 2006 22:08:10 -0800 Regulation of Acupuncture: A Complementary Therapy Framework Summary Given the dramatic rise in educational standards, policy-makers and the Acupuncture Board cannot assume that the experience of practitioners alone is protecting the public. The State has reasonable options for ensuring that all practitioners are developing the knowledge skills and abilities that are necessary to protect patients.... http://www.alternative-healthcare.com/acupuncture/acupuncture-in-california/little-hover-commission-2004/continuing-education-summary-and-recommendation.html http://www.alternative-healthcare.com/acupuncture/acupuncture-in-california/little-hover-commission-2004/continuing-education-summary-and-recommendation.html Little Hover Commission 2004 Fri, 03 Mar 2006 21:04:55 -0800 Regulation of Acupuncture: A Complementary Therapy Framework In SB 1951, the Legislature asked the Commission to: "Evaluate the national examination, administered by the National Certification Commission for Acupuncture and Oriental Medicine, and make recommendations as to whether or not the national examination should be offered in California in lieu of, or as part of, the state examination." Finding 4: The examination of candidates for licensure is a critical quality control measure for assuring competency of providers and is an essential mechanism for ensuring that evolving public policy goals are met.... http://www.alternative-healthcare.com/acupuncture/acupuncture-in-california/little-hover-commission-2004/examination.html http://www.alternative-healthcare.com/acupuncture/acupuncture-in-california/little-hover-commission-2004/examination.html Little Hover Commission 2004 Fri, 03 Mar 2006 20:01:40 -0800 Regulation of Acupuncture: A Complementary Therapy Framework Most other California health professionals are licensed based on a national examination. However, the acupuncture profession is still 47 relatively new in its evolution within the United States and the profession in California has evolved somewhat differently than it has developed nationally. Just as different nations take different regulatory approaches to acupuncture, herbs and other modalities of traditional Oriental medicine, so do different states. One significant difference among states and nations is whether acupuncture and herbs are regulated as separate skills and professions. That basic decision is one factor that drives the breadth... http://www.alternative-healthcare.com/acupuncture/acupuncture-in-california/little-hover-commission-2004/international-and-american-examination-in-context.html http://www.alternative-healthcare.com/acupuncture/acupuncture-in-california/little-hover-commission-2004/international-and-american-examination-in-context.html Little Hover Commission 2004 Fri, 03 Mar 2006 18:58:25 -0800 Regulation of Acupuncture: A Complementary Therapy Framework Whether California should continue to have a unique examination has been a contentious issue. Among the concerns: Profession-wide standards. Many professionals advocate for establishing one standard examination used nationwide, which like other health professions, allows for reciprocity within the United States. But some California acupuncture associations, especially those advocating for blending the practices of Western and Eastern medicine, are opposed to national standards and testing. To the degree that the NCCAOM exam does not test Western science and practices, the California professional organizations are concerned that it does not comport with the direction... http://www.alternative-healthcare.com/acupuncture/acupuncture-in-california/little-hover-commission-2004/policy-considerations.html http://www.alternative-healthcare.com/acupuncture/acupuncture-in-california/little-hover-commission-2004/policy-considerations.html Little Hover Commission 2004 Fri, 03 Mar 2006 17:55:10 -0800 Regulation of Acupuncture: A Complementary Therapy Framework For this study, a comprehensive review and psychometric analysis of the state and the NCCAOM examinations was conducted by consultants from California State University, Sacramento and RAND. The analysis found that both tests meet professional psychometric standards. However, the California examination was determined to be more rigorous than the NCCAOM examination. The analysis also found that the test items on the California examination are on average more difficult than the NCCAOM examination. Further, California's underlying documentation - upon which examinations are built - was stronger. The chart on the following page provides... http://www.alternative-healthcare.com/acupuncture/acupuncture-in-california/little-hover-commission-2004/test-analysis.html http://www.alternative-healthcare.com/acupuncture/acupuncture-in-california/little-hover-commission-2004/test-analysis.html Little Hover Commission 2004 Fri, 03 Mar 2006 16:51:55 -0800 Regulation of Acupuncture: A Complementary Therapy Framework In summary, the psychometrical and statistical comparison of the two examinations concluded the following: Based on all of the documentation made available for this project, one cannot help but conclude that, despite some weaknesses or documentation failures here and there, both testing programs conscientiously strive toward excellence and have in fact produced very good products. The two testing programs have each captured a weighted composite of the tasks performed in professional practice, have generated items of high quality, and have determined passing criteria in accord with accepted practice.... http://www.alternative-healthcare.com/acupuncture/acupuncture-in-california/little-hover-commission-2004/good-tests-but-room-for-improvement.html http://www.alternative-healthcare.com/acupuncture/acupuncture-in-california/little-hover-commission-2004/good-tests-but-room-for-improvement.html Little Hover Commission 2004 Fri, 03 Mar 2006 15:48:40 -0800 Regulation of Acupuncture: A Complementary Therapy Framework While both examinations meet professional standards, policy-makers may wish to consider the following opportunities for improvement: Require essential safety knowledge. It is possible to establish must-pass components of the examination to ensure that applicants for licensure demonstrate proficiency in each of the areas that are deemed to be essential for public safety. The box below provides further details on the consultant's conclusions regarding a modular approach for testing critical knowledge.... http://www.alternative-healthcare.com/acupuncture/acupuncture-in-california/little-hover-commission-2004/refinement-approaches.html http://www.alternative-healthcare.com/acupuncture/acupuncture-in-california/little-hover-commission-2004/refinement-approaches.html Little Hover Commission 2004 Fri, 03 Mar 2006 14:45:25 -0800 Regulation of Acupuncture: A Complementary Therapy Framework Summary In choosing between the two examinations, policy-makers should consider the soundness of the testing instruments and whether they were appropriately developed from a valid occupational analysis. The tests also must be statistically valid and securely administered. In this case, both examinations were found by independent statistical and psychometric analysis to be sound. However, California's more extensive technical documentation of the underlying exam factors was determined to be superior.53... http://www.alternative-healthcare.com/acupuncture/acupuncture-in-california/little-hover-commission-2004/examination-summary-and-recommendation.html http://www.alternative-healthcare.com/acupuncture/acupuncture-in-california/little-hover-commission-2004/examination-summary-and-recommendation.html Little Hover Commission 2004 Fri, 03 Mar 2006 13:42:10 -0800 Regulation of Acupuncture: A Complementary Therapy Framework In SB 1951, the Legislature asked the Commission to: "Evaluate and make recommendations on the approval process of the Accreditation Commission of Acupuncture and Oriental Medicine, the approval process of the Bureau of Private Postsecondary and Vocational Education and the board's approval process." Finding 5: The process used by the Accreditation Commission of Acupuncture and Oriental Medicine appears to be superior to the school approval process used by the Acupuncture Board and could be used by the State to ensure the quality of education for potential licensees.... http://www.alternative-healthcare.com/acupuncture/acupuncture-in-california/little-hover-commission-2004/school-accreditation-practices.html http://www.alternative-healthcare.com/acupuncture/acupuncture-in-california/little-hover-commission-2004/school-accreditation-practices.html Little Hover Commission 2004 Fri, 03 Mar 2006 12:38:55 -0800 Regulation of Acupuncture: A Complementary Therapy Framework School approval procedures provide multiple values to students and the general public. One primary goal is to make sure that students receive a quality education in the subject matter that regulators deem necessary for entry level professionals. Similarly, the approval process protects students by making sure that they receive a solid education from a credible institution. The federal government requires accreditation as a way to safeguard the federal investment in student aid. The U.S. Department of Education follows a stringent process for approving private accrediting bodies, deputizing them to perform the function as... http://www.alternative-healthcare.com/acupuncture/acupuncture-in-california/little-hover-commission-2004/the-value-of-accreditation.html http://www.alternative-healthcare.com/acupuncture/acupuncture-in-california/little-hover-commission-2004/the-value-of-accreditation.html Little Hover Commission 2004 Fri, 03 Mar 2006 11:35:40 -0800 Regulation of Acupuncture: A Complementary Therapy Framework Through a survey of school administrators and other research, UC's Center for the Health Professions identified similarities and differences between California's review process and that used by ACAOM. Both agencies express similar philosophies, use similar procedures and look for similar factors when visiting programs. In the past, they have even coordinated their school visits.... http://www.alternative-healthcare.com/acupuncture/acupuncture-in-california/little-hover-commission-2004/comparing-acaom-and-californias-approvals.html http://www.alternative-healthcare.com/acupuncture/acupuncture-in-california/little-hover-commission-2004/comparing-acaom-and-californias-approvals.html Little Hover Commission 2004 Fri, 03 Mar 2006 10:32:25 -0800 Regulation of Acupuncture: A Complementary Therapy Framework As of July 2004, ACAOM requires schools to have a minimum of 2,625 hours for its Oriental medicine accreditation, which includes both acupuncture and herbs.113 California's current requirement is 2,348 hours, but effective January 1, 2005, California's standard will increase to 3,000 hours. California's curriculum requirements also are more specific than ACAOM's.... http://www.alternative-healthcare.com/acupuncture/acupuncture-in-california/little-hover-commission-2004/education-standards.html http://www.alternative-healthcare.com/acupuncture/acupuncture-in-california/little-hover-commission-2004/education-standards.html Little Hover Commission 2004 Fri, 03 Mar 2006 09:29:10 -0800 Regulation of Acupuncture: A Complementary Therapy Framework Questions for Policy-makers While there is clearly animosity between some members of the California profession and ACAOM, the question for policy-makers is how to best ensure that schools are providing a quality education to students who will sit for the acupuncture exam.... http://www.alternative-healthcare.com/acupuncture/acupuncture-in-california/little-hover-commission-2004/which-process-best-ensures-quality.html http://www.alternative-healthcare.com/acupuncture/acupuncture-in-california/little-hover-commission-2004/which-process-best-ensures-quality.html Little Hover Commission 2004 Fri, 03 Mar 2006 08:25:55 -0800 Regulation of Acupuncture: A Complementary Therapy Framework California has - and should - maintain control over its educational standards for the sole purpose of ensuring adequate minimum competency for entry-level practitioners. Some stakeholders oppose involvement by organizations that are active throughout the United States, preferring to evolve the California profession independent of national and international trends. But as others suggest, the Acupuncture Board could have ACAOM accredit schools and still reserve final approval for the board. 116... http://www.alternative-healthcare.com/acupuncture/acupuncture-in-california/little-hover-commission-2004/can-california-rely-on-acaom-and-control-standards.html http://www.alternative-healthcare.com/acupuncture/acupuncture-in-california/little-hover-commission-2004/can-california-rely-on-acaom-and-control-standards.html Little Hover Commission 2004 Fri, 03 Mar 2006 07:22:40 -0800 Regulation of Acupuncture: A Complementary Therapy Framework In UC's survey, the greatest criticism of the approval process pertained to the fees charged by ACAOM. And UC calculated that a school could spend 10 times as much on fees to ACAOM over a 10-year period than it would pay to the Acupuncture Board.... http://www.alternative-healthcare.com/acupuncture/acupuncture-in-california/little-hover-commission-2004/should-costs-matter.html http://www.alternative-healthcare.com/acupuncture/acupuncture-in-california/little-hover-commission-2004/should-costs-matter.html Little Hover Commission 2004 Fri, 03 Mar 2006 06:19:25 -0800 Regulation of Acupuncture: A Complementary Therapy Framework Summary The efforts to raise educational standards even higher have spilled over into the policy debate over how to best assess the quality of education that schools provide. The best information available indicates that ACAOM's process is sound, and in some ways better than the review provided by the California Acupuncture Board. California can make use of this capacity without sacrificing control over curriculum standards or other aspects that ensure adequate preparation.... http://www.alternative-healthcare.com/acupuncture/acupuncture-in-california/little-hover-commission-2004/school-accreditation-practices-summary-and-recommendation.html http://www.alternative-healthcare.com/acupuncture/acupuncture-in-california/little-hover-commission-2004/school-accreditation-practices-summary-and-recommendation.html Little Hover Commission 2004 Fri, 03 Mar 2006 05:16:10 -0800 Regulation of Acupuncture: A Complementary Therapy Framework Finding 6: The California Acupuncture Board has missed significant opportunities to protect the public, particularly in the areas of consumer information and herb-related safety.... http://www.alternative-healthcare.com/acupuncture/acupuncture-in-california/little-hover-commission-2004/oversight-concerns.html http://www.alternative-healthcare.com/acupuncture/acupuncture-in-california/little-hover-commission-2004/oversight-concerns.html Little Hover Commission 2004 Fri, 03 Mar 2006 04:12:55 -0800 Regulation of Acupuncture: A Complementary Therapy Framework One critical example is the board's presentation of the scientific evidence regarding the efficacy of acupuncture. The National Institutes of Health found that acupuncture needle therapy is effective for "postoperative and chemotherapy nausea and vomiting and postoperative dental pain." NIH also stated that it may be appropriate therapy for a variety of other conditions for which there is not yet clear evidence. However, the Acupuncture Board's Web site, fact sheet and consumer brochure implies efficacy for a broad range of ailments. Moreover, those materials do not provide cautionary information to consumers about the... http://www.alternative-healthcare.com/acupuncture/acupuncture-in-california/little-hover-commission-2004/accurate-public-information.html http://www.alternative-healthcare.com/acupuncture/acupuncture-in-california/little-hover-commission-2004/accurate-public-information.html Little Hover Commission 2004 Fri, 03 Mar 2006 03:09:40 -0800 Regulation of Acupuncture: A Complementary Therapy Framework The board also has not forcefully responded to emerging information about basic public safety concerns. The Council of Acupuncture and Oriental Medical Associations, in arguing for improved education standards, submitted to the Commission an audit by a managed care company which found that "18 percent of acupuncturists did not have the required sanitary hand washing facilities and 15 percent did not comply with safe needle disposal requirements."119... http://www.alternative-healthcare.com/acupuncture/acupuncture-in-california/little-hover-commission-2004/disease-protection.html http://www.alternative-healthcare.com/acupuncture/acupuncture-in-california/little-hover-commission-2004/disease-protection.html Little Hover Commission 2004 Fri, 03 Mar 2006 02:06:25 -0800 Regulation of Acupuncture: A Complementary Therapy Framework Much greater attention also needs to be placed on the portion of the scope of practice related to prescribing herbs. These substances are not regulated for purity, potency or effectiveness by the federal Food and Drug Administration nor California authorities.126 Yet there are growing concerns about herb-drug interactions, mislabeling and impurities.... http://www.alternative-healthcare.com/acupuncture/acupuncture-in-california/little-hover-commission-2004/herb-safety.html http://www.alternative-healthcare.com/acupuncture/acupuncture-in-california/little-hover-commission-2004/herb-safety.html Little Hover Commission 2004 Fri, 03 Mar 2006 01:03:10 -0800 Regulation of Acupuncture: A Complementary Therapy Framework Regulatory capture is a long-standing concern with professional boards, and should clearly be of concern in this case. At one point during this study, the board's chairperson confirmed this concern by asserting in writing that: "The Chair of the Acupuncture Board Acupuncture Board is is the only representative and advocate speaking on behalf of the only representative the entire profession in California."138 Domination of the board by elements of the profession - rather than by consumers, health advocates and others who do not economically benefit from the profession - appears to limit the... http://www.alternative-healthcare.com/acupuncture/acupuncture-in-california/little-hover-commission-2004/board-structure.html http://www.alternative-healthcare.com/acupuncture/acupuncture-in-california/little-hover-commission-2004/board-structure.html Little Hover Commission 2004 Thu, 02 Mar 2006 23:59:55 -0800 Regulation of Acupuncture: A Complementary Therapy Framework Recommendation 6: The Governor and the Legislature, through the Sunset Review Process or other mechanisms, should ensure that the California Acupuncture Board becomes a strong advocate for consumers.... http://www.alternative-healthcare.com/acupuncture/acupuncture-in-california/little-hover-commission-2004/oversight-concerns-recommendation.html http://www.alternative-healthcare.com/acupuncture/acupuncture-in-california/little-hover-commission-2004/oversight-concerns-recommendation.html Little Hover Commission 2004 Thu, 02 Mar 2006 22:56:40 -0800 Regulation of Acupuncture: A Complementary Therapy Framework The issues before the Commission are central and routine to essentially all professional licensure. Moreover, it is not uncommon for disputes, particularly over scope of practice, to be raised in both the regulatory and the legislative arenas. But in the case of acupuncture, policy-makers have had difficulty resolving these issues. The debates have been confused by conflicting facts and by the fundamental and philosophical differences between traditional Oriental medicine and Western biomedicine. And while some in the profession want to preserve and enhance traditional therapies, others see the profession's future as a blend... http://www.alternative-healthcare.com/acupuncture/acupuncture-in-california/little-hover-commission-2004/conclusion.html http://www.alternative-healthcare.com/acupuncture/acupuncture-in-california/little-hover-commission-2004/conclusion.html Little Hover Commission 2004 Thu, 02 Mar 2006 21:53:25 -0800 Regulation of Acupuncture: A Complementary Therapy Framework The Acupuncture Board also has "adopted for reference" a document prepared by a professional acupuncture association describing "standards of practice" for acupuncturists (The Council of Acupuncture and Oriental Medical Associations,1997, "Scope of Practice for Licensed Acupuncturists"). That document varies from California statute and regulation. The Acupuncture Board's attorney, Donald Chang, stated that the board's action was the equivalent of receiving a report, October 21, 2003, direct communication). Larry Meyers, Ph.D., Professor, Department of Psychology, California State University, Sacramento, July 2004, written communication regarding "Standards for Educational and Psychological Measurement." Kathleen Hamilton, former Director,... http://www.alternative-healthcare.com/acupuncture/acupuncture-in-california/little-hover-commission-2004/notes.html http://www.alternative-healthcare.com/acupuncture/acupuncture-in-california/little-hover-commission-2004/notes.html Little Hover Commission 2004 Thu, 02 Mar 2006 20:50:10 -0800 The theory and practice of acupuncture is based on Oriental medicine (also known as traditional Chinese medicine), a comprehensive natural health care system that has been used in Asian countries for thousands of years to preserve health and diagnose, treat and prevent illness.... http://www.alternative-healthcare.com/acupuncture/acupuncture-in-california/consumers-guide-to-acupuncture-and-oriental-medicine/what-is-acupuncture-and-oriental-medicine.html http://www.alternative-healthcare.com/acupuncture/acupuncture-in-california/consumers-guide-to-acupuncture-and-oriental-medicine/what-is-acupuncture-and-oriental-medicine.html Consumers Guide to Acupuncture and Oriental Medicine Thu, 02 Mar 2006 19:46:55 -0800 In November 1997, the National Institutes of Health (NIH) convened a panel of 12 distinguished physicians and scientists to review the history, licensing, practice and current status of clinical research on the effectiveness of acupuncture. The first formal endorsement of acupuncture by the NIH stated: "There is sufficient evidence of acupuncture's value to expand its use into conventional medicine and to encourage further studies of its physiology and clinical value."... http://www.alternative-healthcare.com/acupuncture/acupuncture-in-california/consumers-guide-to-acupuncture-and-oriental-medicine/endorsement-by-the-national-institutes-of-health.html http://www.alternative-healthcare.com/acupuncture/acupuncture-in-california/consumers-guide-to-acupuncture-and-oriental-medicine/endorsement-by-the-national-institutes-of-health.html Consumers Guide to Acupuncture and Oriental Medicine Thu, 02 Mar 2006 18:43:40 -0800 The State of California has led the nation in the field of acupuncture, being the first to license qualified practitioners as primary health care professionals in 1979. To qualify for licensing in California, a student must attend a California Acupuncture Board-approved school to receive theoretical and clinical training and graduate with a master's degree. Upon graduation, qualifying candidates must pass a comprehensive state licensing exam. A valid license issued by the Board must be posted in a conspicuous office location.... http://www.alternative-healthcare.com/acupuncture/acupuncture-in-california/consumers-guide-to-acupuncture-and-oriental-medicine/licensed-acupuncturists-in-california.html http://www.alternative-healthcare.com/acupuncture/acupuncture-in-california/consumers-guide-to-acupuncture-and-oriental-medicine/licensed-acupuncturists-in-california.html Consumers Guide to Acupuncture and Oriental Medicine Thu, 02 Mar 2006 17:40:25 -0800 Being informed and understanding what to expect from acupuncture treatment from the beginning will make you feel more comfortable about the experience. Determine Your Goals Are you looking for a primary health care practitioner or someone who will work with your current physician? Are you seeking short-term treatment for a specific complaint or do you want a prevention-oriented, holistic approach to the health of mind, body and spirit that acupuncture and Oriental medicine can provide? Do you have a work-related injury that is covered by Workers' Compensation?... http://www.alternative-healthcare.com/acupuncture/acupuncture-in-california/consumers-guide-to-acupuncture-and-oriental-medicine/what-to-expect-from-acupuncture-treatment.html http://www.alternative-healthcare.com/acupuncture/acupuncture-in-california/consumers-guide-to-acupuncture-and-oriental-medicine/what-to-expect-from-acupuncture-treatment.html Consumers Guide to Acupuncture and Oriental Medicine Thu, 02 Mar 2006 16:37:10 -0800 Modern acupuncture needles are stainless steel, between one-half and three inches long, ultra-fine and quite flexible. They are pre-sterilized, nontoxic and disposable (single use). When the needles are tapped into the skin, there may not be any sensation. Much depends on the location (hands and feet tend to be more sensitive), the condition being treated and the acupuncturist's technique. Needles are typically placed in several acu-points and are usually left in about 20-40 minutes. The goal is to normalize the circulation of Qi and blood by stimulating the energy point, which encourages the body's natural healing process. Stimulation can be... http://www.alternative-healthcare.com/acupuncture/acupuncture-in-california/consumers-guide-to-acupuncture-and-oriental-medicine/treatment-procedures.html http://www.alternative-healthcare.com/acupuncture/acupuncture-in-california/consumers-guide-to-acupuncture-and-oriental-medicine/treatment-procedures.html Consumers Guide to Acupuncture and Oriental Medicine Thu, 02 Mar 2006 15:33:55 -0800 It is not recommended to have an acupuncture treatment if you are very hungry or extremely tired. Some bruising may occasionally occur after needling. If you have a bleeding disorder or are on blood-thinning medications, you should inform your acupuncturist before undergoing treatment. If you are pregnant or have a pacemaker, tell the acupuncturist so that appropriate herbs and acu-points will be chosen.... http://www.alternative-healthcare.com/acupuncture/acupuncture-in-california/consumers-guide-to-acupuncture-and-oriental-medicine/treatment-precautions.html http://www.alternative-healthcare.com/acupuncture/acupuncture-in-california/consumers-guide-to-acupuncture-and-oriental-medicine/treatment-precautions.html Consumers Guide to Acupuncture and Oriental Medicine Thu, 02 Mar 2006 14:30:40 -0800 In the course of your treatment Chinese herbal remedies may be prescribed. They may be dispensed as raw herbs or in pills, capsules, granules, or tinctures which make them easier to ingest. Most herb formulas can treat a wide variety of symptoms while stimulating the body’s natural healing process.... http://www.alternative-healthcare.com/acupuncture/acupuncture-in-california/consumers-guide-to-acupuncture-and-oriental-medicine/herbal-therapy.html http://www.alternative-healthcare.com/acupuncture/acupuncture-in-california/consumers-guide-to-acupuncture-and-oriental-medicine/herbal-therapy.html Consumers Guide to Acupuncture and Oriental Medicine Thu, 02 Mar 2006 13:27:25 -0800 Patients of acupuncturists range from infants to senior citizens. They may be seeking an alternative to Western medicine or it may be their last hope for relief, having exhausted other methods of treatment for a chronic condition. Or, an acupuncturist may be their first choice of health care practitioner for a low-risk form of treatment with few side effects.... http://www.alternative-healthcare.com/acupuncture/acupuncture-in-california/consumers-guide-to-acupuncture-and-oriental-medicine/who-can-benefit.html http://www.alternative-healthcare.com/acupuncture/acupuncture-in-california/consumers-guide-to-acupuncture-and-oriental-medicine/who-can-benefit.html Consumers Guide to Acupuncture and Oriental Medicine Thu, 02 Mar 2006 12:24:10 -0800 Most California insurance plans include acupuncture treatment in their policies. Ask your insurer about coverage or reimbursement. Some plans that don't normally cover acupuncture will pay for treatments if a physician recommends them. Many acupuncturists are providers for traditional PPO and HMO plans. Acupuncturists are covered under California State Medi-Cal and Workers' Compensation.... http://www.alternative-healthcare.com/acupuncture/acupuncture-in-california/consumers-guide-to-acupuncture-and-oriental-medicine/what-about-insurance-coverage.html http://www.alternative-healthcare.com/acupuncture/acupuncture-in-california/consumers-guide-to-acupuncture-and-oriental-medicine/what-about-insurance-coverage.html Consumers Guide to Acupuncture and Oriental Medicine Thu, 02 Mar 2006 11:20:55 -0800 A complaint should be filed by anyone who believes that a licensed acupuncturist has engaged in illegal or unethical activities related to their professional responsibilities. Anyone may file a complaint, and the Board will review each complaint received. The most effective complaints are those that contain firsthand, verifiable information. While anonymous complaints will be reviewed, many times it is impossible to pursue without documented evidence of the allegations made.... http://www.alternative-healthcare.com/acupuncture/acupuncture-in-california/consumers-guide-to-acupuncture-and-oriental-medicine/how-are-complaints-filed.html http://www.alternative-healthcare.com/acupuncture/acupuncture-in-california/consumers-guide-to-acupuncture-and-oriental-medicine/how-are-complaints-filed.html Consumers Guide to Acupuncture and Oriental Medicine Thu, 02 Mar 2006 10:17:40 -0800 Treatment efficacy depends on the severity and nature of the condition being treated. Acupuncturists are trained to identify conditions that may require referral to a specialist, so it is important for you to provide detailed information about your condition so that important medical problems are not overlooked. If you are under the simultaneous care of different health practitioners, it is important to keep all of them informed about your treatments to ensure there are no adverse interactions among treatments.... http://www.alternative-healthcare.com/acupuncture/acupuncture-in-california/consumers-guide-to-acupuncture-and-oriental-medicine/conditions-treated.html http://www.alternative-healthcare.com/acupuncture/acupuncture-in-california/consumers-guide-to-acupuncture-and-oriental-medicine/conditions-treated.html Consumers Guide to Acupuncture and Oriental Medicine Thu, 02 Mar 2006 09:14:25 -0800 CALIFORNIA BUSINESS AND PROFESSIONS CODE: SECTION 4925-4934.2 4925. This chapter constitutes the chapter on acupuncture of the Business and Professions Code. This chapter shall be known and may be cited as the Acupuncture Licensure Act. Whenever a reference is made to the Acupuncture Licensure Act by the provisions of any statute, it is to be construed as referring to the provisions of this chapter. Any reference in this chapter, or to the regulations pertaining thereto, to "certificate" or "certification" shall hereafter mean "license" or "licensure." Any reference to the term "certifying" means "licensing," and the term "certificate holder" means "licensee."... http://www.alternative-healthcare.com/acupuncture/acupuncture-in-california/california-acupuncture-laws/acupuncture-licensure-act-section-4925-49342.html http://www.alternative-healthcare.com/acupuncture/acupuncture-in-california/california-acupuncture-laws/acupuncture-licensure-act-section-4925-49342.html California Acupuncture Laws Thu, 02 Mar 2006 08:11:10 -0800 CALIFORNIA BUSINESS AND PROFESSIONS CODE: SECTION 4935-4949 4935. It is a misdemeanor, punishable by a fine of not less than one hundred dollars ($100) and not more than two thousand five hundred dollars ($2,500), or by imprisonment in a county jail not exceeding one year, or by both that fine and imprisonment, for any person who does not hold a current and valid license to practice acupuncture under this chapter or to hold himself or herself out as practicing or engaging in the practice of acupuncture. It is a misdemeanor, punishable by a fine of not less than one hundred... http://www.alternative-healthcare.com/acupuncture/acupuncture-in-california/california-acupuncture-laws/acupuncture-licensure-act-section-4935-4949.html http://www.alternative-healthcare.com/acupuncture/acupuncture-in-california/california-acupuncture-laws/acupuncture-licensure-act-section-4935-4949.html California Acupuncture Laws Thu, 02 Mar 2006 07:07:55 -0800 CALIFORNIA BUSINESS AND PROFESSIONS CODE: SECTION 4955-4964 4955. The board may deny, suspend, or revoke, or impose probationary conditions upon, the license of any acupuncturist if he or she is guilty of unprofessional conduct. Unprofessional conduct shall include, but not be limited to, the following: Using or possessing any controlled substance as defined in Division 10 (commencing with Section 11000) of the Health and Safety Code, or dangerous drug or alcoholic beverage to an extent or in a manner dangerous to himself or herself, or to any other person, or to the public, and to an extent that the use... http://www.alternative-healthcare.com/acupuncture/acupuncture-in-california/california-acupuncture-laws/acupuncture-licensure-act-section-4955-4964.html http://www.alternative-healthcare.com/acupuncture/acupuncture-in-california/california-acupuncture-laws/acupuncture-licensure-act-section-4955-4964.html California Acupuncture Laws Thu, 02 Mar 2006 06:04:40 -0800 CALIFORNIA BUSINESS AND PROFESSIONS CODE: SECTION 4965-4969 4965. Licenses issued pursuant to this chapter shall expire on the last day of the birth month of the licensee during the second year of a two-year term, if not renewed. The board shall establish and administer a birth date renewal program. To renew an unexpired license, the holder shall apply for renewal on a form provided by the board and pay the renewal fee fixed by the board.... http://www.alternative-healthcare.com/acupuncture/acupuncture-in-california/california-acupuncture-laws/acupuncture-licensure-act-section-4965-4969.html http://www.alternative-healthcare.com/acupuncture/acupuncture-in-california/california-acupuncture-laws/acupuncture-licensure-act-section-4965-4969.html California Acupuncture Laws Thu, 02 Mar 2006 05:01:25 -0800 CALIFORNIA BUSINESS AND PROFESSIONS CODE: SECTION 4970-4974 4970. The amount of fees prescribed for licensed acupuncturists shall be those set forth in this section unless a lower fee is fixed by the board in accordance with Section 4972: The application fee shall be seventy-five dollars ($75). The examination and reexamination fees shall be the actual cost to the Acupuncture Board for the development and writing of, grading, and administering of each examination. The initial license fee shall be three hundred twenty-five dollars ($325), except that if the license will expire less than one year after its issuance, then the initial... http://www.alternative-healthcare.com/acupuncture/acupuncture-in-california/california-acupuncture-laws/acupuncture-licensure-act-section-4970-4974.html http://www.alternative-healthcare.com/acupuncture/acupuncture-in-california/california-acupuncture-laws/acupuncture-licensure-act-section-4970-4974.html California Acupuncture Laws Thu, 02 Mar 2006 03:58:10 -0800 CALIFORNIA BUSINESS AND PROFESSIONS CODE: SECTION 4975-4979 4975. An acupuncture corporation is a corporation which is authorized to render professional services, as defined in Section 13401 of the Corporations Code, so long as that corporation and its shareholders, officers, directors, and employees rendering professional services who are acupuncturists are in compliance with the Moscone-Knox Professional Corporation Act, this article and all other statutes and regulations now or hereafter enacted or adopted pertaining to that corporation and the conduct of its affairs. With respect to an acupuncture corporation, the governmental agency referred to in the Moscone-Knox Professional Corporation Act is the... http://www.alternative-healthcare.com/acupuncture/acupuncture-in-california/california-acupuncture-laws/acupuncture-licensure-act-section-4975-4979.html http://www.alternative-healthcare.com/acupuncture/acupuncture-in-california/california-acupuncture-laws/acupuncture-licensure-act-section-4975-4979.html California Acupuncture Laws Thu, 02 Mar 2006 02:54:55 -0800 1399.400. Citation. This chapter may be cited and referred to as the "Acupuncture Regulations." 1399.403. Definitions. For the purpose of the regulations contained in this chapter, the terms "Board" shall mean the Acupuncture Board. "Code" shall mean the Business and Professions Code.... http://www.alternative-healthcare.com/acupuncture/acupuncture-in-california/california-acupuncture-regulations/general-provisions-title-16-article-1.html http://www.alternative-healthcare.com/acupuncture/acupuncture-in-california/california-acupuncture-regulations/general-provisions-title-16-article-1.html California Acupuncture Regulations Thu, 02 Mar 2006 01:51:40 -0800 1399.410. Verification. All statements submitted by or on behalf of an applicant shall be made under penalty of perjury. 1399.411. Certification of Documentation. Documentation submitted by or on behalf of the applicant shall be certified by the appropriate official or governmental seal or authority. The board in its discretion may waive this requirement when it is determined that it cannot be obtained through the exercise of due diligence.... http://www.alternative-healthcare.com/acupuncture/acupuncture-in-california/california-acupuncture-regulations/applications-generally-title-16-article-2.html http://www.alternative-healthcare.com/acupuncture/acupuncture-in-california/california-acupuncture-regulations/applications-generally-title-16-article-2.html California Acupuncture Regulations Thu, 02 Mar 2006 00:48:25 -0800 1399.420. Citation and Reference This article shall be cited and referred to as the "Acupuncture Tutorial Regulations." 1399.421. Definitions. As used in these regulations: "Acupuncture tutorial" means an acupuncture tutorial program which is approved by the board pursuant to Sections 4939 and 4940 of the code which when successfully completed meets the requirements of Section 4938 of the code for licensure as an acupuncturist. "Supervising acupuncturist" or "supervisor" means a licensed acupuncturist who is approved by the board to provide an acupuncture tutorial to a trainee who is registered with the board pursuant to Section 4940 of the code... http://www.alternative-healthcare.com/acupuncture/acupuncture-in-california/california-acupuncture-regulations/acupuncture-tutorials-title-16-article-3.html http://www.alternative-healthcare.com/acupuncture/acupuncture-in-california/california-acupuncture-regulations/acupuncture-tutorials-title-16-article-3.html California Acupuncture Regulations Wed, 01 Mar 2006 23:45:10 -0800 1399.434. Criteria for Approval of Acupuncture and Oriental Medicine Training Programs (effective 1/1/05) A school approved by the board shall use a training program, which relate to the study and practice of acupuncture and oriental medicine, for all students entering its acupuncture and Oriental medicine training program on or after January 1, 2005 that meets the following criteria: Basic Sciences - 350 hours The curriculum in basic sciences shall prepare students to enter postsecondary upper division biomedical and clinical science courses and shall consist of at least 350 hours of didactic and laboratory instruction in the following basic science... http://www.alternative-healthcare.com/acupuncture/acupuncture-in-california/california-acupuncture-regulations/acupuncture-training-programs-title-16-article-35-.html http://www.alternative-healthcare.com/acupuncture/acupuncture-in-california/california-acupuncture-regulations/acupuncture-training-programs-title-16-article-35-.html California Acupuncture Regulations Wed, 01 Mar 2006 22:41:55 -0800 1399.440. Location. Examinations shall be administered at times and locations to be determined by the board. If the same examination is administered in more than one location, it shall be administered concurrently in each location. 1399.441. Languages. Examinations shall be administered in English, Chinese, and Korean. An applicant shall notify the board of the desired language where provided for in the Application for Examination/Licensure. Translations and translators, when necessary for other languages, shall be provided in any language for which a translation is formally requested as provided above by a minimum of five percent (5) of the total number... http://www.alternative-healthcare.com/acupuncture/acupuncture-in-california/california-acupuncture-regulations/examinations-and-demonstrations-of-competency-title-16-article-4.html http://www.alternative-healthcare.com/acupuncture/acupuncture-in-california/california-acupuncture-regulations/examinations-and-demonstrations-of-competency-title-16-article-4.html California Acupuncture Regulations Wed, 01 Mar 2006 21:38:40 -0800 1399.450. Condition of Office. Every acupuncture office shall be maintained in a clean and sanitary condition at all times, and shall have a readily accessible bathroom facility in accordance with Title 24, Part 2, Building Standards Code Sections 494A.1 and 1994 Uniform Building Code Section 2902.3. In all offices where non-disposable needles are used, there shall be functioning sterilization equipment. 1399.451. Treatment Procedures. In treating a patient, an acupuncturist shall adhere to the following procedures: The acupuncturist's hands shall be brush-scrubbed with soap and warm water immediately before examining patients or handling acupuncture needles and other instruments, and between... http://www.alternative-healthcare.com/acupuncture/acupuncture-in-california/california-acupuncture-regulations/standards-of-practice-title-16-article-5.html http://www.alternative-healthcare.com/acupuncture/acupuncture-in-california/california-acupuncture-regulations/standards-of-practice-title-16-article-5.html California Acupuncture Regulations Wed, 01 Mar 2006 20:35:25 -0800 1399.460. Fees. The application fee shall be seventy-five dollars ($75). The examination and reexamination fee shall be five hundred, fifty dollars ($550), plus the applicable fingerprint processing fee in effect at the time the application is submitted. In order to establish and administer a birthdate renewal program, the initial license fee for an acupuncture license will be based on the date the license is issued and the birthmonth of the applicant. No license will be issued for less than twelve (12) months. The fee for an initial license shall be in accordance with the following schedule: Birth MonthMonth Fee... http://www.alternative-healthcare.com/acupuncture/acupuncture-in-california/california-acupuncture-regulations/miscellaneous-provisions-title-16-article-6.html http://www.alternative-healthcare.com/acupuncture/acupuncture-in-california/california-acupuncture-regulations/miscellaneous-provisions-title-16-article-6.html California Acupuncture Regulations Wed, 01 Mar 2006 19:32:10 -0800 1399.470. Citation and Authority. These regulations may be cited and referred to as the "Acupuncture Corporation Regulations". 1399.475. Requirements for Acupuncture Corporations. An acupuncture corporation shall comply with the following provisions: The corporation is organized and exists pursuant to the general corporation law and is a professional corporation within the meaning of Part 4, Division 3, Title 1 of the Corporations Code. Each shareholder, director, and officer (except as provided in Section 13403 of the Corporations Code and Section 4977.2 of the code) holds a valid acupuncture certificate. An acupuncturist may be a shareholder in more than one acupuncture... http://www.alternative-healthcare.com/acupuncture/acupuncture-in-california/california-acupuncture-regulations/acupuncture-corporations-title-16-article-7.html http://www.alternative-healthcare.com/acupuncture/acupuncture-in-california/california-acupuncture-regulations/acupuncture-corporations-title-16-article-7.html California Acupuncture Regulations Wed, 01 Mar 2006 18:28:55 -0800 1399.480. Definitions. For purposes of this article: "Approved Provider" means those persons or organizations offering continuing education as approved by the Board. "Course" means a systematic learning experience, at least one hour in length, which deals with and is designed for the acquisition of knowledge, skills and information relevant to the practice of acupuncture. "Hour" means at least fifty (50) minutes of participation in an organized learning experience. 1399.481. Criteria for Provider Approval. In order to be an approved provider, a provider shall submit to the board a provider application on a form provided by the board accompanied by... http://www.alternative-healthcare.com/acupuncture/acupuncture-in-california/california-acupuncture-regulations/continuing-education-title-16-article-8.html http://www.alternative-healthcare.com/acupuncture/acupuncture-in-california/california-acupuncture-regulations/continuing-education-title-16-article-8.html California Acupuncture Regulations Wed, 01 Mar 2006 17:25:40 -0800