June 20, 2006

Greeting Friends and Colleagues:

Welcome to the inaugural issue of the Qi-Unity Report, written by, for and about the profession. The Qi-Unity Report will arrive the third Monday of each month. If you would like to contribute to this monthly newsletter, we recommend that you read the Qi-Unity Report E-Blast as comprehensive instructions are provided. Please no direct emails, as an online form is provided!

We know that there are too few hours in the day for everyone, so the format we’ve chosen allows you to quickly identify news items of immediate interest, or you can print the Qi-Unity Report in its entirety to read at your leisure.

Introduction

It’s nice now and again to pause, take a deep breath, and appreciate the distance you have traveled.

I came to this profession in 2001 as the ED of the California State Oriental Medical Association (CSOMA), and then joined the AAOM in June of 2004. Standing at today, I feel our profession has journeyed light years over a relative short span of time; in fact, I view challenge as a gauge of success.

I say this because no one wants to tie themselves to a sinking ship, but everyone wants to grab tight the tail of a rising star. OM is the rising star of complementary and alternative medicine; but even more broadly, public health care at large. Nationally, the chiropractic community is attempting to broaden their scope of practice because they see the market share Acupuncture represents; our access to herbs is being challenged because the pharmaceutical industry considers increased annual herbal usage as a threat (a 2005 Harvard study showed the highest jump in the use of CAM therapies was the use of herbal substances – growing from 12.1 in 97 to 18.6%), the AMA, under Resolution 814 (PDF) will be evaluating the qualifications, education, academic requirements, licensure, certification, independent governance, ethical standards, disciplinary processes, and peer review of the limited licensure health care providers because annually alternative medicine claims an ever increasing market share in the health care marketplace – over 42% in the US alone use CAM therapies (72 million – or 1 in 3 Americans).

These challenges require our diligence, time and resources to address; but our profession is facing these challenges because of success – not failure. The more institutionalized and accepted OM becomes in the marketplace, the greater challenges we shall face by those that feel they could be losing market share. The unfortunate reality is these types of challenges have far more to due with capitalism, protection of “the bottom line”, and not losing market share, than about the medicine, healing, and serving the patient. Nutrition Business Journal (Volume X, Feb 2005) reported: “It is perceived by the public as a conspiracy by mainstream medicine, the FDA and pharmaceutical companies owning the rights to choice.” In responding to this marketplace to expand the OM role in healthcare, we need not worry about succumbing to the tactics of our competitors, but rather, we must respond in "real time" with "real answers" to the challenges that arise daily. This is vital to our sustainability. To that extent, we welcome YOU– the authors and readership of the Qi-Unity Report inaugural edition.

Carpe Diem… As practitioners, organizations, schools, students and businesses of OM, let us share the challenges, opportunities, and contributions of our medicine with each other, and thus our world.

How to Contribute: To meet our monthly publishing deadline, contributions from the profession must be received by close of business the second Monday of each month. If you would like to contribute to this monthly newsletter, we recommend that you read the Qi-Unity Report E-Blast as comprehensive instructions are provided. Please no direct emails, as an online form is provided!


AAOM to Represent US to WHO

The AAOM is requesting feedback from its constituency on developing international standards of classification for East Asian Traditional Medicine within the ICD-10.

The World Health Organization (WHO) has invited the American Association of Oriental Medicine (AAOM) to participate in a meeting whose purpose is to develop international standards of classification for East Asian Traditional Medicine. As the only organization selected to represent the United States, AAOM will be sending Dr. Jeannie Kang, LAc (CA) to serve as an advisor and Marilyn Allen to act as the Media Liaison. Dr. Kang is a past long-term board member of the California State Oriental Medical Association (CSOMA), and Marilyn Allen is the Editor-in-Chief of Acupuncture Today. The meeting is scheduled to take place on June 6-8, 2006 in Seoul, Korea, and its comprehensive results will be published in the September issues of the American Acupuncturist and Acupuncture Today.

The main purpose adopted by WHO is to standardize clinical language and practices as well as the use of evidence-based approaches in traditional medicine. They also recognize a demand for sound health information on traditional medicine.

The upcoming meeting will be the first informal consultation conducted by the WHO Regional Office for the Western Pacific to include a representative from the United States. The goals established at the last meeting held in Tsukuba, Japan in January are to reach consensus on developing a Classification of East Asian Traditional Medicine (CEATM) and discuss its possible structure; to review and confirm the WHO International Standard Terminologies (IST) as the main resource for the creation of the CEATM; to discuss the process of adapting the IST into the CEATM; and to discuss future plans including possible application for WHO Family of International Classification (FIC).

The International Classification of Diseases (ICD-10) was endorsed by the 43rd World Health Assembly in May 1990 and came into use in WHO Member States as from 1994. The classification is the latest in a series which has its origins in the 1850's. The first edition, known as the International List of Causes of Death, was adopted by the International Statistical Institute in 1893. WHO took over the responsibility for the ICD at its creation in 1948 when the Sixth Revision was published.

The ICD-10 has become the international standard diagnostic classification for all general epidemiological and many health management purposes. These include the analysis of the general health situation of population groups and monitoring of the incidence and prevalence of diseases and other health problems in relation to other variables such as the characteristics and circumstances of the individuals affected.

It is used to classify diseases and other health problems recorded on many types of health and vital records including death certificates and hospital records. In addition to enabling the storage and retrieval of diagnostic information for clinical and epidemiological purposes, these records also provide the basis for the compilation of national mortality and morbidity statistics by WHO Member States.

OM Constituent Feedback Requested: The AAOM is requesting feedback from its constituency on developing international standards of classification for East Asian Traditional Medicine within the ICD-10. We request you submit your comments via the interactive form provided. AAOM will develop a position paper that will be submitted to WHO, based upon the feedback received from our constituencies nationwide. To assist you in providing input, we are attaching two supporting documents for your review: 1) WHO – Family of International Classifications (PDF): definition, scope and purpose (Revised: 8/2004); and 2) WHO: Principles and process for including classification in the Family of International Classifications (PDF)(Revised: 8/2004).

Please provide your position on developing international standards of classification for East Asian Traditional Medicine within the ICD-10, to include your position on this topic as well as all positives and/or negative impacts that might result from such inclusion.

Visit http://www.aaom.org/interactive.asp?ID=4

We are asking for this information to know the geographic range of responses and should we need to contact you for any clarification on your comments.

Lastly, we are linking the AAOM's position paper sent to WHO on the aforementioned activities.

For more information on the World Health Organization and the ICD-10, please visit http://www.who.int/about/en/ and http://www.who.int/classifications/icd/en/.


International Korean Medicine Conference

 

The International Korean Medicine Conference, held on April 21, 2006 in the ChungBuk Oriental Medicine Center, JeCheon, South Korea, was a global forum to discuss the present and future of Asian Medicine. There were representatives from the world leaders in Asian Medicine including: South Korea, North Korea, China and the U.S.A.

The representatives shared the current state of Asian Medicine in their respective countries and what is expected in the near future. With the current state established and the expectations aired, the door for discussion was wide open. The shared direction was one of cooperation and advancement, between both practitioners and countries. Topics were timely and diverse. The growing, cultivation, import and access of herbs; the research, development, consideration and expansion of technology and techniques were explored. With the benefit of humankind as their guide, the participants laid the groundwork for the exciting, integrated future of Asian Medicine.

International Korean Medicine Conference Presentation (PDF)


ACAOM Renewed as Accrediting Agency

 

THE SECRETARY OF EDUCATION
WASHINGTON, DC 20202

May 1, 2006

Mr. Dort S. Bigg, JD
Executive Director
Accreditation Commission for Acupuncture and Oriental Medicine
Maryland Trade Center 3
7501 Greenway Center Drive, Suite 820
Greenbelt, Maryland 20770

Dear Mr. Bigg:

At its December 7-8, 2005, meeting, the National Advisory Committee on Institutional Quality and Integrity (Committee) recommended that I renew for a period of five years the recognition of the Accreditation Commission for Acupuncture and Oriental Medicine (ACAOM) as a nationally recognized accrediting agency and grant an expansion of its scope of recognition to include preaccreditation ("Candidacy" status). This recommendation was made under Sections 114 and 496 of the Higher Education Act of 1965 (HEA), as amended, and pursuant to relevant statutory and regulatory provisions.

I concur with the recommendation of the Committee. I am satisfied that accreditation by ACAOM is a required element in enabling freestanding institutions and colleges of acupuncture and Oriental medicine to establish eligibility to participate in programs authorized under the Higher Education Act of 1965, as amended. Accordingly, for a period of five years from the date of this letter, I shall list ACAOM as a nationally recognized accrediting agency for the accreditation and preaccreditation ("Candidacy" status) throughout the United States of first-professional master's degree and professional master's level certificate and diploma programs in acupuncture and Oriental medicine, as well as freestanding institutions and colleges of acupuncture or Oriental medicine that offer such programs.

Please convey my best wishes to the members of the ACAOM. I appreciate their continuing efforts to improve the quality of postsecondary education in the United States.

Sincerely,

<signed>
Margaret Spellings

Original Letter (PDF)


NCCAOM ANNOUNCES JUNE 2006 EXAMINATION ADMINISTRATION DATES

New “Flexible Dates” Will Allow Candidates to Test during a Two-Week Span

 

Alexandria, VA – April 24, 2006 – NCCAOM announced today that Monday, June 19, 2006 will be the start date for the administration of the June 2006 NCCAOM examination modules. Candidates will be given a two-week period beginning on June 19, 2006 to complete their examination(s) at their selected site (a list of over 200 sites will be made available to all registered candidates soon).

Based on availability, candidates, who are registered to take the NCCAOM examinations, can choose any date(s) between June 19 to July 1, 2006 to take their examination(s). For example, a candidate can choose to take the Chinese Herbology examination module on June 21 and the Biomedicine examination module on June 23. This gives the candidate the option to spread the exams out over a one or two-week period or to take it all on one or two days. All testing is by individual appointment only.

“The flexibility of this new examination cycle will greatly benefit each candidate”, stated Chief Executive Officer, Dr. Kory Ward-Cook. “No longer will candidates be forced to take their examinations within a constrained period of two days. This new, lengthened examination administration will provide flexibility for the candidates and allow them to set their schedule according to their own needs.”

NCCAOM is also unveiling a new and accelerated registration process, which benefits the candidate greatly by taking less time and hassle to register for upcoming exams. As a result of the newly implemented computer-based examination administration, the registration process will be expedited and each candidate will be processed more smoothly and efficiently. Candidates will now be notified of eligibility to register directly with the testing vendor to quicken the pace of registration process even more. While registering, the candidate will select from one of more than 200 test sites and then find the best time to take the test. Registration can be completed online or by calling a toll-free number. At the end of the call, the candidate will know exactly when and where their test will be.

All registered candidates will be contacted individually by mail with detailed registration information. Anyone who has questions about the upcoming examination or the registration process can call the NCCAOM office at (703) 548-9004 or email us at candidatesupport@nccaom.org.

The National Certification Commission for Acupuncture and Oriental Medicine (NCCAOM) is a non-profit, tax-exempt organization established in 1982. The mission of NCCAOM is to establish, assess, and promote recognized standards of competence and safety in acupuncture and Oriental medicine for the protection and benefit of the public.


CAVEON™ TEST SECURITY PROVIDING SERVICES TO SECURE THE NCCAOM EXAMS

Company to Provide Security Services and State of the Art Technology to Help Combat Cheating and Protect Intellectual Property

 

Alexandria, VA – June 9, 2006 – The National Certification Commission for Acupuncture and Oriental Medicine (NCCAOM), the only nationally recognized certification body in the United States for Acupuncture, Chinese Herbology, Oriental Medicine, and Asian Bodywork Therapy, announced that it is working with Caveon, a leading security consulting company, to increase security measures for examinations. Caveon is providing security services and state-of-the-art technology to help combat cheating and piracy of test information.

“We are delighted to have Caveon as a part of our new security efforts,” said Dr. Kory Ward-Cook, Chief Executive Officer of the NCCAOM. “As the leading testing service in the United States for traditional Chinese medicine, it is essential to have sufficient layers of security to detect cheating and protect our item bank database against piracy.”

Caveon is the first test security services consulting firm that offers organizations protection from unauthorized disclosure and use of test information. They will be supplying NCCAOM with a unique and valuable service, using forensics technology to decipher cheating patterns and prevent the piracy of items. Under the terms of the agreement, Caveon is providing a complete vulnerability assessment and will be continuously monitoring exam patterns to detect signs of cheating and stealing of items. They will also provide security audits to review and certify the security measures of NCCAOM’s testing programs, Web patrol to help identify unauthorized disclosures of sensitive information, and a security plan which includes policies, procedures, legal agreements and documents relating to the security of NCCAOM’s exams. During NCCAOM’s initial security audit in May 2006, the system passed all assessment tests.

“NCCAOM has incorporated many exemplary security practices into its basic operating style,” said Dr. John Fremer, President of Caveon. “Both top management and staff fully recognize the importance of protecting the value of their critical intellectual property, items and tests. It was a pleasure and privilege for Caveon Test Security to apply its security standards and experience to help ensure the fairness and validity of NCCAOM test results.”

Caveon is a rapidly growing test security consulting and technology company offering prevention, detection, and remediation services aimed at test fraud and theft. In addition to consulting services, Caveon has developed patent-pending technologies which analyze test data for signs of cheating and test theft. Caveon offers test security solutions for clients in the education, information technology, and financial services industries.

The National Certification Commission for Acupuncture and Oriental Medicine (NCCAOM) is a non-profit organization established in 1982. Its mission is to establish, assess and promote recognized standards of competence and safety in acupuncture and Oriental medicine for the protection and benefit of the public.

It is a considerable professional achievement to earn the designation “Diplomate in Acupuncture (NCCAOM).” NCCAOM certification indicates to employers, patients and peers that one has met national standards for the safe and competent practice of acupuncture as defined by the profession. The first NCCAOM Comprehensive Written Examination (CWE) in Acupuncture (ACP) was given in March 1985. In 2007, the NCCAOM will be celebrating its 25th Anniversary. Since its inception, the NCCAOM has issued more than 20,000 certificates in Acupuncture, Oriental Medicine, Chinese Herbology and Asian Bodywork Therapy.


SB 246 - OHIO SENATE HHSAC PASSES BILL

The Ohio State Senate Health Human Service and Aging Committee passed SB 246 (8-0), allowing chiropractors to perform acupuncture with only 300 hours of training.

On May 10, 2006, the Senate Bill (SB 246) was voted on and passed by the Ohio State Senate Health Human Service and Aging Committee with the vote result of 8 to 0. This Senate Bill would allow chiropractors to perform acupuncture (including moxibustion and electrical stimulation) with only 300 hours of training (200 hours direct clinic instruction and 100 hours theories study) and to supervise acupuncturists in Ohio.

This Senate Bill is sponsored by Senator Kirk Schuring, and co-sponsored by Senators Jeffery J, Armbruster, Kimberly Zurz, Robert Hagan, Randy Gardner, Patricia Clancy, and Teresa Fedor. Senator Kirk Schuring introduced it to the Ohio State Senate on December 30, 2005.

The first hearing was held on Feb. 8, 2006. There were 6 hearings for this bill. As the official representative of the acupuncture profession, the Ohio Association of Acupuncture and Oriental Medicine (OAAOM) has attended all the hearing and organized our members and the practitioners in Ohio to give testimony to oppose this bill. In addition, we have organized a public petition in opposition to it. We also have visited the individual senator’s offices to put forth our opposition.

Dr. Will Morris, the President of AAOM, and Dr. Michael McCoy, the Executive Director of the Acupuncture and Oriental Medicine Alliance, both came to Columbus, Ohio and offered excellent, incisive testimony that helped to slow down the process. Additionally the AAOM, AOMAlliance, NCCAOM, Sherri Tenpenny, D.O., and David Wells, D.C., L.Ac. sent letters in opposition to SB 246 to the sponsors of SB246 as well as the members of the Health, Human Services and Aging Committee.

We have provided strong, logical reasons against the approval of this bill. Unfortunately, no progress has been made. The Medical and Osteopathic Associations and the Medical Board of Ohio State (acupuncture supervising board) are not opposing this, and the bill was still passed by the committee.

The Ohio Chiropractic Board is very strong both politically and financially. They have hired 3 lobbyists to work on SB 246. This goes far to explain why the HHA committee, while ignoring the professional standard established to govern the acupuncture profession, has passed SB 246.

SB 246 is going to be sent to the house. We will continue to oppose it and defend the practitioners of acupuncture and oriental medicine in Ohio. Ohio passed the acupuncture law in August of 2000 with a physician’s referral requirement. Chinese herbal practice is not part of the Registered Acupuncturist’s scope of practice. We still have a long way to go to make the practice environment ideal. Your ideas on how to further oppose this bill are highly appreciated. Your help and support will be necessary. Please contact David Dehui Wang, President, OAAOM, at dhwang88@yahoo.com. Or at 614-668-2886.

David Wang, President of OAAOM


SB 351 - MICHIGAN PASSES BILL

Michigan the 40th State to Legalize Acupuncture

Governor Jennifer Granholm signed Michigan"s first ever Acupuncture Law on February 23, 2006, recognizing practitioners of Acupuncture as Registered Acupuncturists. This achievement is the result of a 20 year legislative process that now ensures public access and personal choice to a proven modality of medicine while protecting public health and safety. SB 351 was sponsored by Senator Beverly Hammerstrom (R) and Representative Kevin Green (R) and passed unanimously in the State Senate and received 92% approval in the House of Representatives. Deborah Lincoln, President of the Michigan Association of Acupuncture and Oriental Medicine, was instrumental in the passage of this bill. This new law, PA 30, is a shared success for Acupuncture providers and the people of Michigan as it represents the State’s desire for new healthcare options.

Rebekah ChristensenInterviewer: Rebekah Christensen
AAOM Executive Director (RC)

Deborah LincolnInterviewee: Deborah Lincoln, RN, MSN, RAc, DiplAc
AAOM Vice President of Corp. Events (DL)

RC: How do you account for the fact that a bill which took 20 years to pass did so with such significant legislative support? Do you see this as characteristic of the increased acceptance of alternative modes of health care?

DL: What led to the final approval of this bill was a symbiosis of political, professional and public support.

We were determined and tireless in our efforts to garner political support through lobbying.

Developments in our associations' structure and collaboration provided substantive groundwork upon which politicians were able to base their decisions. Legislative staff was able to work with our state, and national and international contacts, to have their questions and concerns addressed.

MAAOM members rose to the challenge of advocating for our industry through an effort we called "Acupuncture Educational Days." Practitioners gave complimentary treatments to Legislators and other government officials, all of whom reported that they loved it and returned to their offices relaxed and feeling the Qi flowing. News of this demonstration spread rapidly, and statewide television and radio broadcasts plus newspaper articles really gave a push to our industry, and enlivened the practice in our state.

Finally, I would say that biggest help with pushing this bill through the Legislature was never giving up.

RC: Can you talk a little bit about the evolution of SB 351?

DL: Michigan had no law for acupuncturists until now, as over the last 20 years since introducing the bill, the state legislators and Governors were not willing to expand government regulation of any new health care practitioners. The present Governor saw the need for this valuable addition to Michigan's growing need for readily available choices of treatments that work, and the savings to the people in our state for health care costs.

The first bill was introduced 17 years ago following a three-year battle to get this done after an acupuncturist was arrested for practicing medicine without a license. This incident forged our need to move ahead for state regulation.

After many attempts to get this bill through, we were opposed by the Michigan Medical Society, chiropractors and former Governors until 2003. We got a lucky break and had our bill introduced by Rep. Richardville (R) and many co-sponsors as a bipartisan bill. Unfortunately, we did not make it through the session. In October 2004, we hired a tremendous lobbying firm that pushed our bill forward; fortunately, the bill was re-introduced by Sen. Hammerstorm (R) and co-sponsored by Rep. Green (R) of Wyoming, MI.

With this combination of a great support in the House and Senate, SB 351 was guided masterfully by our lobbyist into a unanimous Senate vote, then went on win by a 92% vote in the House. MAAOM members, headed by President Deborah Lincoln, visited the Michigan state capitol – to provide several days of education. Not only did we treat their individual patients, but numerous state legislators and government officials. We had prime media coverage, which really broadened public perception of the field. Many of us attended fund raisers in support of this legislation.

RC: Which supporters played a significant role in moving this bill forward?

DL: Senator Beverly Hammerstrom (R), Chair of the Health Care Committee, Majority Floor Leader, along with 18 co-sponsors in the Senate, and Rep. Green (R) and many of his co-sponsors. We also had the support of the Board of Chiropractic, The Board of Osteopathy  and the Nursing Board. The only opposition was the Michigan Medical Board.

RC: What is the next step for acupuncturists in Michigan to take in order to continue to grow this field?

DL: The next step for Michigan acupuncturists is to first get a State Board of Acupuncture set up, which is due to be announced by June 1. Interviews are all completed. Also, we need to organize lectures in order to educate both the public and private medical providers about the significant knowledge and expertise backing the practice of Acupuncture and Oriental Medicine.

Several MAAOM members have voiced interest in opening an acupuncture school.  Another one of our dreams is to facilitate the addition of staff acupuncturists in hospitals statewide.

RC: What entities will this bill create and what regulatory changes will they institute effecting practitioners?

DL: The new bill will entitle all practitioners qualified through rigorous training to utilize the designation Registered Acupuncturist. MDs and DOs are exempt from this bill as are NADA technicians; ie, the safety of the public is ensured through the assurance that registered acupuncturists have met statewide standards of preparation.

RC: How does a registry differ from certification?

DL: Registration and certification are interchangeable in Michigan. Registration is voluntary. If Michigan decides to require licensing in the future, it will be mandatory for all practitioners.


HB 17 - KENTUCKY PASSES BILL

Kentucky the 41st State to Legalize Acupuncture

On April 10, 2006 the Kentucky Legislature passed HB 17 (95-0) creating Acupuncture Certification.  The Governor signed the bill into law on April 24, 2006.

Deborah LincolnInterviewer: Deborah Lincoln, RN, MSN, RAc, DiplAc
AAOM Vice President of Corp. Events (DL)

Mimi TaigerInterviewee: Mimi Taiger, DiplAc (MT)

HB 17 - Background and History 

DL: Can you explain how this bill developed?

MT: The original bill was the brainchild of an anonymous benefactor who had a vision for a holistic health center.  She had formed a holistic health center with other complimentary medicine providers and saw acupuncture as a natural choice for inclusion. The first version of this legislation was achieved through the collaboration of a few acupuncturists that drafted an all-inclusive practice act with the leadership of Betsy Whitmer, LAc. Unfortunately, this bill was opposed by the Kentucky State Medical and Chiropractic Boards, and failed in the 11th hour. The bill lay dormant over the next five years, due to a lack of financial backing and political sponsorship.

DL: How did you resurrect the bill from its dormant status?

MT: I contacted the originators of the bill and decided to reinitiate our efforts under the leadership of Betsy Whitmer and Shelly Ochs, a resident acupuncturist in Kentucky. Our joint efforts resulted in a bill that was simple, straightforward and free of some of the entanglements that prevented its earlier passage. We attempted to establish licensure, but were only successful in negotiating to certification.

DL: Who were the main supporters of the second incarnation of this bill?

MT: We were fortunate to receive the pro bono services of Oliver Barber, Esq., who lobbied extensively on our behalf. Representative Denver Butler and Senator Julie Rose-Denton gave the bill its momentum, and are largely responsible for its success.

DL: How helpful were other acupuncturists in the state?

MT: We were forced to rely on states with larger associations to fund our efforts. Eventually, we were able to grow our state association to include 18 members, which gave us a significant boost.

DL:  What was the state law prior to the passage of the bill?

MT:  Only Western Medical Doctors could practice acupuncture.  Kentucky had an unusual situation in that many of the acupuncturist’s who lived here were forced to practice in nearby states. I am so grateful that this law secures the safety of both the public and acupuncture practitioners.

DL:  Can chiropractors and naturopaths practice in Kentucky?

MT:  No.

DL:  What were the biggest obstacles that you faced?

MT:   The chiropractors, the Kentucky State Medical Board and a sole chiropractor who wanted to be grandfathered in with limited training.

DL: How did you address this?

MT:  Betsy Smith, Associate Deputy Director of the NCCAOM, was instrumental in convincing legislators not to support the portion of the bill that would have dramatically reduced the training required to become a certified acupuncturist in the state. Due to her testimony during the House hearing, legislators agreed to remove the language which would have allowed anyone who passed the NCCAOM exam to be grandfathered in.

DL:  What was the final vote in the House and Senate?

MT:  It was unanimous in both the House and Senate.

DL:  Will Kentucky implement a statewide Board of Acupuncture; if so, what standards will be mandated?

MT:  Kentucky will establish an Acupuncture Council under the State Medical Board. Acupuncturists will be required to obtain NCCAOM certification and consumers will not be required to obtain a PCP referral to begin services in the state.

DL:  What's next for the state's acupuncturists?

MT:  The next step is to grow our membership to support our professional growth in the state, which includes our on-going need for lobby support. We need financial assistance to retain the Lobbyist as we have much work to do and only a few practitioners to support our monetary needs.

I would like to express my gratitude to the following people, without whose efforts this bill would not have been successful: Shelly Ochs, DiplAcp NCCAOM; Betsy Whitmer, DipAcp NCCAOM; Mr. Oliver Barber, Attorney/lobbyist; Betsy Smith, Associate Deputy Director of the NCCAOM,; Representative Denver Butler (D-Kentucky), Senator Julie Rose-Denton (R-Kentucky).

DL: “ BREAKING NEWS FROM KENTUCKY”

Just one hour before my interview with Mimi Taeger, she was hired as the first NCCAOM certified acupuncturist in the State of Kentucky, by St Elizabeth Hospital in Edward, Kentucky.  She was asked to join the Hospital’s Holistic Health Department. This only became possible due to the passage of HB 17.  Currently the hospital has one MD on staff practicing Acupuncture one day a week.

GREAT JOB AND THANK YOU MIMI TAEGER AND HER FABULOUS TEAM FOR MAKING A DREAM A REALITY!


Support AB 3014 (CA)

The AAOM is writing to give assistance to California in support of AB 3014 (Koretz) "Asian Massage".

PURPOSE
This bill defines the term "Asian massage" in Statute so that California insurance carriers and providers, for the purposes of reimbursement, know what procedures an acupuncturist can legally perform under the Acupuncture Act.

SUMMARY
This bill amends Business and Professions Code Section 4937, the Acupuncture Licensure Act, to codify the definition of "Asian Massage" in California law.

AB 3014 will define "Asian Massage" to mean the use of pressure techniques, including myofascial release/manual therapy as it relates to soft tissues, through massage and mobilization of the skin and muscle for the therapeutic objective of stimulization of proper body function.

COMMENTS
Since 1981, California acupuncturists have participated in the Workers' Compensation system and have used designated procedure/billing codes along with many other physical medicine codes for various types of therapy, procedures and modalities that are within the acupuncturist scope of practice.

Workers' Compensation Codes are used universally among all healthcare professionals in the United States. While manual therapy is a Western term, treatment procedures relating to it are limited to each profession's scope of practice. For example, the Western term for 'myofascial release,' is a treatment used not only in acupuncture but also in physical therapy. However, in acupuncture and Oriental medicine, the term refers to the massage of tissue, joints, muscles and pressure of soft tissue manipulation known as Tui Na.

In fact, myofascial release procedures are steeped in the history of Oriental medicine. These procedures were developed primarily by the Chinese in use of pressure techniques, massage, manipulation and mobilization of tissues and bones, all of which are included within the definition of Asian massage.

CALL TO ACTION
AB 3014 will be heard in the California Business & Professions on Tuesday, May 9th. We request you call or fax your support of this legislation. The area of focus for such support could include:

The uses of "Asian Massage" techniques are well established in the tradition of Oriental (Asian) Medicine. These techniques as applied by acupuncturists are best defined in the practice and coding procedures of medicine as 'Myofascial Release' and "Manual Therapy". Defining them as such in statute will allow the California health care consumer to acquire insurance coverage for medically necessary treatments and provide standardized medical terms for use in communication with other medical providers and patient charting.

I'm asking for your support of AB 3014.

Members of the CA B&P include:

Gloria Negrete McLeod, Chair
916-319-2061 (319-2161 Fax) Assemblymember.McLeod@assembly.ca.gov

Shirley Horton, Vice Chair
916-319-2078 (319-2178 FAX) Assemblymember.Shirley.Horton@assembly.ca.gov

Karen Bass
916-319-2047 (319-2147 FAX) Assemblymember.Bass@assembly.ca.gov

Paul Koretz
916-319-2042 (319-2142 FAX) Assemblymember.Koretz@assembly.ca.gov

Bill Maze
916-319-2034 (319-2134 FAX) Assemblymember.Maze@assembly.ca.gov

Joe Nation
916-319-2006 (319-2106 FAX)

Van Tran
916-319-2068 (319-2168 FAX) Assemblymember.Tran@assembly.ca.gov

Juan Vargas
916-319-2079 (319-2179 FAX) Assemblymember.Vargas@assembly.ca.gov

Leland Yee
916-319-2012 (319-2012 FAX) Assemblymember.Yee@assembly.ca.gov

Sincerely,

Lloyd G. Wright, LAc, DNBAO
Chair, Legislative Affairs


Workshops

Sept. 9 and 10 - Susan Johnson, LAc, will teach the Introduction to Tung's Magic Points at Antioch University, in Yellow Springs, OH. 13 CEU pending. REGISTRATION DEADLINE: July 7. For more information, contact: 937-667-8533.

June 25 and August 6 - Dr. Mary J. Rogel will present a two-part series, "Building on Bedrock: Assessing and Treating the Foundation of the Body" at Three Pillars Wellness Center. 12 CEU will be offered. For more information, call 773-955-9643.


California Acupuncturists Comment on Their Training

The LAC Study Group

ARTICLE INFORMATION

The LAC Study Group
This article provides information derived from the findings of The Licensed Acupuncture Collaborative (LAC) Study conducted in California during 2002-2003. The research was conducted by the LAC Study Group which comprises a team of investigators from UCLA, San Francisco State University, and the California Health Institute. The group also included advisors and other contributors from the acupuncturist community, including members of the California State Oriental Medical Association (CSOMA). Investigator, advisor, and other contributor information are provided below.

Investigator Information
Tony Kuo, MD, MSHS, Principal Investigator is Clinical Faculty in the Department of Family Medicine, David Geffen School of Medicine at UCLA. Adam Burke, PhD, MPH, LAc is Associate Professor and Co-Director of the Institute for Holistic Healing Studies in the Department of Health Education, San Francisco State University. He was previously a member of the Executive Committee and the Chair of Research at CSOMA (2001-2003). Ian Coulter, PhD is Professor at the UCLA School of Dentistry. He is also Senior Health Policy Researcher at RAND Health, RAND Corporation, and the Director of Integrative Medicine & Clinical Research at the Samueli Institute. Kevin McNamee is Director of the California Health Institute in Woodland Hills, California. He is licensed both in chiropractic and acupuncture. Lillian Gelberg, MD, MSPH is Professor and Vice Chair for Academic Affairs in the Department of Family Medicine, David Geffen School of Medicine at UCLA. Steven Asch, MD, MPH is Associate Professor of Medicine in the West Los Angeles Veterans Affairs (VA) Medical Center. Lisa Rubenstein, MD, MSPH is the Director of the VA/UCLA/UCSD/RAND Center of Excellence for the Study of Healthcare Provider Behavior, located in the VA Greater Los Angeles Medical Center in Sepulveda, California.

Advisor and Other Contributor Information
Rebekah Christensen is the Executive Director of the American Association of Oriental Medicine (AAOM). Yolanda Marin-Sandoval was CSOMA’s Interim Executive Director from 2004-2005. Howard Kong, LAc was the President of CSOMA from 2003-2005. Lam Kong, OMD, LAc is an experienced and highly respected acupuncturist in California.

Please address all correspondences to:
Tony Kuo, MD, MSHS
Department of Family Medicine
David Geffen School of Medicine at UCLA
10880 Wilshire Blvd., Suite 1800
Los Angeles, CA 90024-4142
Tel: (310) 794-3219

INTRODUCTION

Although the training component of the Licensed Acupuncture Collaborative Study (The LAC Study) has culminated in several publications20,21,25 and reports to various state and national agencies, including the Little Hoover Commission25, the LAC Study Group has yet to release the written comments of several acupuncturists who participated in the mailed survey. This paper presents some of these comments. In the following section, we provide a summative review of how several California acupuncturists viewed the quality of their training in traditional Chinese Medicine (TCM). It is our hope that by publishing these qualitative statements the reader will gain a better appreciation for the diverse opinions on training quality and practice that currently exist among members of the acupuncturist community.15,16,26,30,33,35,37 The poignant perspectives presented by these survey participants provide a useful snapshot of the general attitudes and beliefs of licensed acupuncturists in California.5

This article begins with a general description of the TCM profession, the TCM training curriculum, and The LAC Study. It concludes by summarizing the various comments in their original transcribed format. We leave to the reader the interpretation of these provider comments.

Why California is an Important Case Study
Use of provider-based therapies in complementary and alternative medicine (CAM) has expanded in the United States during the past two decades.2-4,6-13,17-19,22-24,27,29,32,36,38 The profession of TCM, for example, has been rapidly growing in California.2,6,34 As of 2002, there were approximately 5,500 licensed acupuncturists with mailing addresses in the state.2,34 By July 2003, this number had exceeded 7,000-plus.34 During the past several years, at least 600 individuals have passed the state licensing examination annually.28 As a result, California now accounts for more than one-third (> 38%) of the total U.S. acupuncturist workforce, estimated to be about 20,750 (i.e., total licenses issued in the U.S. in 2004).34 Because of this unprecedented growth, training standards and qualifications of these healthcare providers as they relate to consumer safety have become increasingly important to both TCM educators and state licensing agencies.26

The current TCM curriculum in California
State-approved training programs currently require students to complete a minimum of 3,000 hours to graduate.1,10,14,31 The curriculum typically extends over a period of four academic years. It must include 400 hours in the basic sciences; 30 hours in the history of medicine and medical terminology; 128 hours in clinical medicine and Western health sciences, including instruction in cardiopulmonary resuscitation (CPR); 30 hours in professional ethics; over 600 hours in Chinese Medicine principles, theories and treatment; 300 hours in traditional herbology, and more than 800 hours in clinical instruction and supervised practice (see Title 16, California Code of Regulations, Article 3.5 at www.acupuncture.ca.gov/ law_reg/regs.htm).

THE LAC STUDY

From November 2002 to February 2003, we conducted a mailed survey of a representative sample of licensed acupuncturists in California, collecting data on respondent characteristics such as provider demographics, provider training, self-reported practices, and clientele information.20,21 The study design (see Table 1) was implemented with the support of the California State Oriental Medical Association (CSOMA), one of the largest professional associations dedicated to advancing the TCM profession in the state.

Participants
We used the 2002 public records from the California Acupuncture Board (CAB) to randomly select 400 practitioners from a pool of 4,914 eligible individuals. These selected acupuncturists were invited to participate if they met the following inclusion criteria: 1) age 18 and over, 2) licensed to practice acupuncture in the state, 3) primary address in California, and 4) not licensed as a physician in the U.S. (MD or DO).

Survey Instrument
Based on an iterative process with input from key stakeholders, a self-administered, 29-question dual language questionnaire in English and Chinese was developed for use in the LAC Study. The questionnaire was piloted among 44 practitioners prior to field implementation. The final version comprised 5 sections, one of which, “Your Training” asked acupuncturists about their TCM college training, their educational activities after TCM college, and their perceived needs for further training in select content areas. This 64-item section evaluated 57 content areas comprising five domains of TCM student development: 1) knowledge of herbal medicine and pharmacology; 2) history-taking and physical exam skills; 3) technical skills in acupuncture (needling) and other TCM modalities; 4) skills for integrated practice and working with physicians; and 5) practice management.

TABLE 1: Study Overview

Written comments from participants
All study participants who completed the mailed survey were asked to comment on their TCM practice and training on the final page of the survey instrument. General information from those acupuncturists who provided comments and feedback about their training is given below. One hundred twenty-two (122) of the 276 survey participants (44% of the total sample) provided written comments as part of their response to the survey. The reported statistics only apply to those who provided comments and should not be generalized to the overall total sample of acupuncturists in the study. Aggregate data on these participant demographics are reported in Table 2. The next section summarizes some of these hand-written comments.

Table 2: Demographics of acupuncturists who provided written comments
as part of their response to the survey(n=122)
Race
 White
 African-American
 Hispanic
 Chinese
 Korean
 Japanese
 Vietnamese
 Other
68% (83)
0% (0)
2% (2)
21% (26)
4% (5)
1% (1)
2% (2)
2% (3)
Gender
 Female
 Male

 Overall
68% (83)
32% (39)

 White
72% (60)
28% (23)

 Asian
59% (20)
41% (14)

 Other
60% (3)
40% (2)
Location
 Large city
 Suburb of city
 Small city
 Rural/small town

 Overall
28% (34)
37% (45)
20% (24)
15% (19)

 White
28% (23)
36% (30)
17% (14)
19% (16)

 Asian
30% (10)
38% (13)
26% (9)
6% (2)

 Other
20% (1)
40% (2)
20% (1)
20% (1)
Highest education level
 High school
 Associate degree
 Bachelor’s
 Master’s (including LAc)
 Doctorate*
 MD licensed in U.S.
 MD not licensed in U.S.
 Other*

 Overall
5% (6)
4% (5)
4% (5)
62% (76)
21% (26)
0% (0)
2% (2)
2% (2)

 White
2% (2)
2% (2)
6% (4)
70% (58)
17% (14)
0% (0)
1% (1)
2% (2)

 Asian
12% (4)
9% (3)
3% (1)
41% (14)
32% (11)
0% (0)
3% (1)
0% (0)

 Other
0% (0)
0% (0)
0% (0)
80% (4)
20% (1)
0% (0)
0% (0)
0% (0)
* Doctorate and other degrees reported by several practitioners included: RN, PharmD, OMD, CMT, and QME.

SAMPLE WRITTEN COMMENTS ABOUT TCM TRAINING

#1
“Note: many practitioners have multiple disciplines and didactic backgrounds with grounding in Western medicine, and individuals like myself, [has] a good discipline in almost all of the alternative arts.”

#2
“In the question which asks if I feel I need more training in those areas, I have answered instead whether I wanted more training. I am always looking to better myself and increase my skills. So I believe I haven’t answered it correctly. In many cases, I may not necessarily need more training but would like more to be the best that I could be – my ideal…”

#3
“I feel that I could have gotten better use with [and training on] raw herbs during school.”

#4
“I value ongoing education; I like to learn. I also value any help that I can get in running my practice/business.”

#5
“I think the biggest weakness in my training was in business skills. It’s hard to be a successful practitioner when you don’t know how to stay in business. I don’t want a lot of Western training; [when it comes to Western medicine] I’d rather leave it to the Western doctors.”

#6
“My sister is a MD. She was ‘groomed’ by her university to be a MD. Her experience [in medical school]…changed her from an ER nurse to a doctor – she is not the same person! Granted our situation in life is different, there is no ‘machinery’ for us to segue way into, no lottery, internship or job waiting after our schooling (many acupuncturists lose their confidence when confronted with the ‘real world’). We need to be entrepreneurs. Our schooling is ‘softer’ and we’re in a ‘softer’ profession, and in a way, that is good, we can spend more time with each patient and be an ‘ear’ when frequently the Western doctors don’t have the time. Also, we are less likely to do harm and OM therapies have less risk. BUT, I think we need to be ‘groomed’ to be able to interface with Western professionals – doctors, chiropractors and lawyers. Not to mention our patients who don’t take us as seriously as ‘real doctors’. Recommended training areas to address:

#7
“My education in […TCM college] was adequate to begin a career in acupuncture and herbs, and to do no harm. I have more quarrel with the way in which the information was delivered (in 3-hour chunks) which made it difficult to absorb rather than focusing on the quality of the information itself. Also, I marked that I felt I needed to know more about almost everything because I believe that learning in this profession is endless, but not because we need to have more information crammed into us before we begin our career. Finally, while I believe we should interface with Western doctors and be conversant regarding their tests and in their ‘lingo’, I am completely against “Western medicine-izing” Chinese Medicine.”

#8
“In many cases I said that I ‘need’ more training in some areas. I have to learn and like to learn what’s new; i.e. tongue [exam]/pulse [analysis]/herbs, etc. I do feel lacking in Western medical exams.”

#9
“I appreciate partaking in this comprehensive survey. Regarding continuing education, I have marked ‘NO’ in many boxes. I feel my current training is adequate. However, I would still take courses on many of these subjects if the instructor and course materials were compelling. There is always room for improvement! I intend to always continue studying. I also feel educating patients, the public, and other medical providers about the practice and benefits of TCM are very important. Also, communication between various modalities [or professions] is very important. I am encouraged by the move toward integrative medicine and try to utilize it in my practice as much as possible.”

#10
“Need more knowledge about Western Medicine.”

#11
“Schools need to spend more time for on-the-job training and teaching actual patient treatment procedures instead of learning theories and arts of healing. I think most acupuncturists need more education about insurance, practice, giving patients health advice, and physical examination.”

#12
“Many things I took upon myself to learn in more detail for the clinic. I am also a QME, so I have a better idea of how to write reports for insurance purposes. I also learned more orthopedic testing through my study as a QME.”

#13
“…I felt that my education was adequate [generally] but was lacking in the areas of office/business management, practical application of CM theories, and in Western medicine. I’ve learned a lot on my own by studying each new problem that my patients bring to me. I feel I’m a good practitioner but marked ‘YES’ in all of the items under the ‘Do I need/want more education?’ section because I think we can all learn more; not because I don’t know enough to be good and effective. If I don’t know something, I will look it up. I hope this helps in some way.”

#14
“I’ve been in practice for a long time so I am relatively comfortable with the way I practice. But it would have been helpful to learn more about Western diagnosis/tests and practice management. We can never have enough training in Chinese Medicine. It’s a lifetime study.”

#15
“My concern in answering this questionnaire is that I rate much of my initial training fairly low especially as in regards to Western skills. I don’t think more didactic training at the Master’s level is the answer. We need residency training with stipends in TCM, and integrative care. We need hands on work.”

#16
“While there is a great discrepancy in educational background among California acupuncturists, it seems that the new 45 hour CEUs per year proposal won’t adequately address the problem. For one, it is excessive for those with adequate education, and secondly, it does not directly address the deficiencies of those with an inadequate education. Remedial exams with re-licensure seem a more targeted solution.”

#17
“More training from the beginning on how to practice acupuncture in America is a good idea! TCM when applied early in an illness [and for health promotion] is most effective. Unfortunately, treating last resort medical rejects/failures is both difficult and discouraging.”

#18
“While my OM education was good overall, I feel that it seriously fell short on providing training in musculoskeletal problems and orthopedics. This is 80% of what I see. Education spent too much time on internal disease processes that we never see or see only in China. Schools must provide solid training in orthopedics and must do a better job in Western medical training!”

#19
“Keeping in mind, when I went to school, they only introduced herbal training in the last (third) year which consisted of a couple of intense weekend seminars. Now is totally different. Also, Western medicine was not taught which is different then before but nonetheless is very important to know.”

#20

#21
“I thirst for more knowledge to help me use the full potential of TCM, especially the herbal aspect. I felt that my education was totally lacking.”

#22
“In the U.S., most licensed acupuncturists are not well trained. Their fund of knowledge is deficient. I hope Traditional Chinese Medicine (TCM) colleges would improve the quality of TCM education; especially that now, integration of care has become popular. Research will be necessary to advance integrative care and our profession.” [In Chinese; translated to English 7/29/03]

#23
“…Overall, I think my education was strong. But they can improve on teaching more Western clinical practices such as orthopedics and neurological testing/exams…in the clinic instead of just in the classroom. My skills as an acupuncturist/herbalist are strong, but that does not mean it’s easy to bring in new clients. I would like to have more referrals from MD’s and other specialists.”

#24
“I believe it is as important to learn the classics of acupuncture techniques and Chinese Medicine as it is to broaden our awareness of Western medicine. Learning from the current discussions in China about their research is another important aspect. I was trained in massage before I got my acupuncture training and so that made it easier to understand general human anatomy not only intellectually but also through practical experience. This understanding helps in the techniques of needling (acupuncture). As for Chinese Medicine, a balanced approach to training is essential.”

#25
“From discussions with my colleagues, I believe that many TCM practitioners do not have enough formal training and therefore often has a difficult time finding a job and attracting clients. Moreover, they have a difficult time taking a good medical history from a patient. Also many TCM practitioners who are without formal training have a hard time starting a practice. More training such as an internship is needed to create more opportunities in the future for TCM practitioners. In retrospect after training, I believe that our fund of knowledge as acupuncturists is limited and that our TCM training did not prepare us for ‘real world’ practice. My experiences suggest that California’s TCM colleges don’t have good standards for training and varies from college to college. If there is an opportunity, curriculum and quality of teaching should be standardized and improved. TCM profession lacks unity and current education and practice standards are not clear. Under these circumstances, it is very difficult to start a solo practice.” [In Chinese; translated to English 7/29/03]

#26
“Today’s demands on California licensed acupuncturists are different from 10 years ago. Patients and other providers (MD’s, DO’s, DC’s) expect us to operate as members of the health care team; primary care has a lot of responsibilities.”

#27
#27 “I feel that the field of TCM needs to introduce an internship and residency program equivalent to Western MDs. There are many practical areas of training, which are overlooked in school. It is difficult to gain this knowledge once out of school because most of us practice alone. CEU’s are helpful but still not enough to bridge the gap. Of course until we can make equivalent salaries to MDs most of us will not be able to afford the additional training.”

#28
“As both a practitioner and teacher of CM and the Chinese Healing Arts I would like to suggest the following based on meetings with practitioners from all over the USA and abroad over the years:

#29
“Needless to state that TCM colleges were not teaching Western medicine. Hopefully, this has improved! Without my previous training and many years of experience as a…[allied health professional], OM practice in the real world would have been difficult.”

#30
“Our education has a long way to go. The most important areas are: recognizing emergency situation that requires immediate Western health care; formulas; and basic acupuncture framework. There was no theoretical framework taught with acupuncture, just cookbook techniques. We were exposed to the presence of other methods on our own; we learned no real method for choosing points to do.”

#31
“Formal training in acupuncture/Chinese Medicine – that is important. Acupuncture institution in the U.S. needs more training (1-2 years more) in many areas.”

#32
“I find that my training in TCM diagnosis was very good, but applying that to a clinical setting was not. I have been able to make a living only because I managed an acupuncture office while in school and learned these skills. School did not prepare me for the real world.”

#33
“U.S. TCM colleges have low standards for training students. Standards should be higher and similar to the higher standards found in China’s TCM colleges. Curriculum should include:

  • Meticulous training programs including internship, English classes, and practical clinic experiences with good mentorship from both Western physicians and TCM practitioners.

    • #34
    “I’ve been practicing acupuncture in a private clinic for 4 years. I’ve also attended many ‘re-education’ courses. I think licensed acupuncturists will benefit from education in:

    #35
    “I was highly disappointed with my education and training in Chinese Medicine. My school enforced classes that were a waste of time and money. I took a formula writing class and the teacher never taught us how to write a formula. It was mandatory that we take classes on subjects that will never enhance CM skills, while vital information like running a practice was never taught. There were never enough supervisors during internship and most of the ones that we did have barely spoke English. I’m sorry to sound so negative. However, if I had the chance to do it all over again, I would choose another profession.”

    #36
    “The more Western medical knowledge and diagnostic skills we have the better, but Chinese Medicine is not Western medicine and that should be clear to us and to the patients. There should be more information available regarding pediatrics in our education.”

    #37
    “I would support a state approved OMD [Oriental Medicine Doctorate] program for senior acupuncturists, especially if it included a specialty program and internship abroad in China, Korea or Japan.”

    #38
    “My suggestion is: an acupuncture school needs to extend their training hours for their students.”

    #39
    “I think studying Chinese Medicine is a lifetime learning process. You need to review and constantly learn new things. You need to be modest and know your limitations. You need a good attitude and work hard to learn new knowledge. In the U.S., TCM training should include internship experience at a larger scale (e.g., in a hospital). Otherwise, without such an experience, it is difficult to succeed as a practitioner in the U.S.

    Licensed acupuncturists should work together and ask the government to help establish a hospital system that allows TCM trainees to do internships prior to going out into the real world and practice.” [In Chinese; translated to English 7/29/03]

    Abbreviations:

    CEU = Continuing Education Unit(s)
    DC = Doctor of Chiropractic
    DO = Doctor of Osteopathic Medicine
    ER = Emergency Room/Emergency Department
    MD = Doctor of Medicine (Western physician)
    ND = Doctor of Naturopathic Medicine
    NP = Nurse Practitioner
    OM/CM = Oriental Medicine/Chinese Medicine (also called Traditional Chinese Medicine)
    OMD = Doctor of Oriental Medicine or Traditional Chinese Medicine
    PA = Physician Assistant
    PharmD = Doctor of Pharmacy
    PhD = Doctor of Philosophy (in a particular field of study)
    QME = Qualified Medical Evaluator (e.g., Worker’s Compensation)
    RN = Registered Nurse
    RPT/PT = Registered Physical Therapist
    TCM = Traditional Chinese Medicine
    Western Medicine = Refers to allopathic or osteopathic medicine

    All efforts were made during the transcription process to preserve the intent and content of all comments, including translations. However, select edits were carried out for the purpose of correcting grammar, translating comments from Chinese to English, and for protecting respondent confidentiality (i.e., all information that could inadvertently or potentially reveal the identity of a respondent were removed). Comments in Chinese, for example, may have lost some of its original content and meaning when they were translated to English.

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    New Student Branch of AAOM!

    All students of Acupuncture and Oriental Medicine across the U.S. are invited to participate in the first ever American Association of Oriental Medicine Student Organization (AAOM-SO).

    Cynthia O'DonnellStudent Organization Advisor: Cynthia O'Donnell

    Koala MooreStudent Organization: Koala Moore
    Chair, Development/Membership

    Rhonda WilburStudent Organization: Rhonda Wilbur
    Chair, ByLaws Task Force

    Students nationwide met and discussed their concerns as part of an AAOM Student Caucus at the AAOM ’05 International Conference & Exposition in Chicago last autumn. During the conference, students met with Cynthia O’Donnell, AAOM Student Affairs Chair, and were able to itemize common goals, outline a preliminary focus, and put together teams to help initiate both a Development and By-Laws Task Force.

    Unanimously the preliminary goals were: 1) to encourage students nationwide to become involved in the establishment and committees of the new AAOM-SO; 2) to enable students to have a better understanding of their common interests and concerns; 3) to empower students to have a voice in the processes that mold their collective future practices; 4) to successfully create an organization that serves and represents all students Acupuncture and Oriental Medicine nationwide.

    Students’ interests were focused into an initial action item agenda. This included working towards a student loan forgiveness program, a mentorship program, reciprocity/national licensing, herbal access, student insurance availability, and corroboration for national promotion of Acupuncture/Oriental Medicine, including public relations work, and public health and research initiatives. Students agreed these objectives would take time and work, but everyone felt they were worth the efforts.

    In the months since the AAOM Chicago Expo, the Development/Membership Task Force contacted all Acupuncture and Oriental Medicine colleges across the country, to inform both colleges and students about the new AAOM-SO. Student letters and presentations offering information and invitations to join were emailed to colleges following introductory phone calls, and the colleges were asked to forward these to all students.

    Each college was also asked to choose a Student Representative to join the Bylaws Task Force, and help them create the Charter Bylaws for the AAOM-SO. And a special half-price membership drive was held in January. Currently between 300 and 400 students have joined the AAOM-SO, and nationally more than a third of the colleges have chosen their Student Representative.

    The ByLaws Task Force brainstormed, networked, and collaborated with AAOM advisors and Student Representatives to initiate, summarize, and write the formal draft of AAOM-SO Charter Bylaws. This draft was then forwarded to the AAOM for their committee review and approval. The AAOM-SO Charter ByLaws include nine separate articles. Among these are Purpose, Membership, Committees and Task Forces, and Voting. Elections for officers are expected to be held for the first time at the AAOM ’06 Expo in Phoenix.

    Enthusiasm and excitement surrounding the AAOM-SO has been outstanding, and interest and support has been exceptional. The AAOM created a special Student Services section on their web site to provide information regarding student interests and the new AAOM-SO. A Student Services icon button on the AAOM Home Page at www.aaom.org guides viewers directly to the student area, where students can join online. In addition there is a National Student Forum chat room available through the AAOM site.

    All Acupuncture/Oriental Medicine students are invited to attend the upcoming AAOM ’06 Expo in Phoenix from October 20-22. The conference will be held at the beautiful Wigwam Resort and Spa. “Healing the Body, Mind and Spirit,” will be the theme of this year’s lectures. Wellness of the BodyMind is a major topic in contemporary healthcare. The AAOM Phoenix Expo promises to offer not only interesting, but also very timely information. The cost for student registration is just $60. A Student Caucus is planned for the Expo to publicly present AAOM-SO business.

    Development/Membership Task Force Members: Rhonda Wilbur (Chair); Myra Becker; Rebecca Christy; Ann Degrassi-Kalkis; Adrian Hillyer; Krista McCain; Claudia McCalla; Jose Montoya; Koala Moore; Loren Romley; Jeannette Schreiber; Mary Thayer; Maureen Woyci.

    Bylaws Task Force Members: Koala Moore (Chair); Nina Isaacson, Lauren Lau, Steve Mavros, Ariel Mayer, Anaya Palay, Rachel Peterman, Jessica Puckett, Loren Romley, and Rhonda Wilbur.


    National University of Health Sciences Launches New MSAc and MSOM Programs

     

    LOMBARD, ILLINOIS —This fall, one of the nation’s oldest alternative medicine schools will launch two new master of science degrees in acupuncture and oriental medicine (AOM). The new AOM programs are part of a bold venture to create a dynamic campus environment focused on integrative medicine.

    National University of Health Sciences (NUHS) in suburban Chicago has been a respected leader in chiropractic education for 100 years. In addition to the doctor of chiropractic degree, the university currently offers a massage therapy certification program and a bachelor of biomedical science degree. The new degrees cap off a landmark centennial year for National, which was founded in 1906.

    The new MSAc and MSOM degree programs start in September 2006. NUHS will also add a new doctor of naturopathic medicine degree program in September as well. All three new degree programs at NUHS are accredited by the Higher Learning Commission of the North Central Association of Colleges and Schools.

    Adding these programs is part of a continuing goal on the part of the university to create a dynamic campus environment focused on integrative medicine. “We will be one of only two campuses in the country to combine oriental, chiropractic, and naturopathic medicine on one campus. What will be unique at National, is that students in our complementary and alternative medicine programs will participate in integrated learning opportunities in a dynamic way that may very well change the face of alternative medicine education,” says NUHS President James Winterstein, D.C.

    “In the marketplace, these professions often compete with each other. We, on the contrary, are excited about the new dialogue, collaborative research and integrative clinical care opportunities that we’ll create by bringing these three fields together in one university,” Dr. Winterstein explains.

    The chair of NUHS’ new acupuncture and oriental medicine department is Behty Harrison, M.A., Dipl. Ac., D.O.M. Previously, she was professor and clinical director for 10 years at Southwest Acupuncture College in Santa Fe, N.M. In addition to her leadership at NUHS, Harrison is currently associated with Evanston Northwestern Hospital’s integrative medicine group.

    “Our new MSOM program will provide high quality comprehensive and professional education in the five branches of traditional Oriental medicine: acupuncture, Chinese herbal medicine, Tuina, Chinese nutritional therapeutics, and Tai Chi/Qi Gong,” says Harrison. “One highlight of both our MSOM and MSAc programs is that students are immersed in the clinic from the very beginning. There’s simply no better way to establish strong clinical and diagnostic skills.”

    The university boasts a spacious and fully-stocked herbal pharmacy, an on-campus clinic as well as other integrative care internship opportunities, a 15,000 volume library of resources devoted specifically to health sciences, as well as a 32-acre campus with academic, research, recreation, and housing facilities.

    “Another great feature of our new programs is the flexibility they offer students,” says Harrison. “New students can enter either program in September, January or May, and can take courses in the daytime or evening. We also have an adjustable schedule so that students may take on a lighter credit load or an accelerated one.”

    Harrison is optimistic about the new program: “I’m very excited to be part of this new and unique AOM program. We look forward to graduating students who are confident in their traditional oriental medical skills and ready to take advantage of new opportunities in integrative care.”

    For more information about National University of Health Sciences’ new acupuncture and oriental medicine degree programs, visit www.nuhs.edu, or call 1-800-826-6285.

    National University of Health Sciences is a not-for-profit, private university accredited by the Higher Learning Commission of the North Central Association of Colleges and Schools (http://www.ncahigherlearningcommission.org) and the Commission on Accreditation of the Council on Chiropractic Education (http://www.cce-usa.org). The massage therapy program is accredited by the Commission on Massage Therapy Accreditation (http://www.comta.org).


    A Tribute to Dr. Roger Hirsh

    May 17, 2006 was a black Wednesday. At 6:10pm, Dr. Roger Hirsh, forever left us. As his teacher and friend, Dr. Baolin Wu reported: “He was riding a crane towards the Western Heaven to visit LaoZi, and Heaven kept him. The rivers and lakes, Heaven and Earth, alas for his death, mourned for his passing!”

    ROGER CAVANAUGH HIRSH
    AUGUST 31, 1948 - MAY 17, 2006

    THUS SHALL YOU THINK
    OF ALL THIS FLEETING WORLD

    A STAR AT DAWN

    A BUBBLE IN A STREAM

    A FLASH OF LIGHTNING
    IN A SUMMER'S CLOUD

    A FLICKERING LAMP

    A PHANTOM AND

    A DREAM

    THE DIAMOND SUTRA
    From a Buddhist text

    Dr. Roger Cavanaugh Hirsh, O.M.D., Ph.D., L.A.c, N.M.D., born on August 31, 1948 in Beverly Hills, CA, died on May 17, 2006 at the age of 57.

    The facts, circumstances and adventures of Dr. Hirsh’s life were enough to fill the lives of several people and his absorbing interests unfailingly extended to the betterment of his friends and clients.

    He was a Doctor of Oriental Medicine and a Diplomate of Acupuncture (USA), acupuncturist, Tai Chi, Qi Gong and massage instructor, mentor, lecturer, world-traveler, spiritual guide, healer and chocolate-herbal-candy maker.

    An honors graduate of the International College of Oriental Medicine (London 1976) he received his Doctorate in Oriental Medicine (1984) with a specialty in Constitutional Medicine. After a 3,000-hour postgraduate internship with Master Sehan Kim, O.M.D, and Dr. Kyo Ok Kim M.D., Ph.D., he joined the Center for Orthomolecular Medicine in Palo Alto, where he practiced acupuncture and herbal medicine for several years as a member of a six-physician team. Dr. Hirsh has served as an adjunct professor at The American College of Traditional Chinese Medicine, The California Acupuncture College and Emperor’s College. He was a founding member and past chairman of the board of directors of China International Medical University.

    In the past 30 years of practicing acupuncture, studying Chinese medical theory and science, Dr. Hirsh gained a profound knowledge on natural treatments from both Chinese medicine and Western medicine, which led to his spearheading a unique way of using acupuncture techniques to treat infertility.

    In the early 80's he initiated the study of treating menopause by using chocolate with Chinese herbs, (specifically Clematis) and received a break-through achievement. His technique has become one of the popular natural treatments for menopause and he was featured on NBC, CBS, and in The LA Times.

    Since 2000, his treatments for diabetes have gained high praise, as well as his treatment for many difficult medical cases such as Parkinson’s, MS and Macular degeneration.

    He dedicated his life to developing Chinese Medicine and spreading acupuncture technique to the world, but Dr. Hirsh’s true genius was his capacity for a deep and instantaneous rapport with others that transcended social, intellectual and spiritual barriers. He saw faith as a living energy and worked tirelessly to remove all blockages to its flow.

    Roger was on a great journey and he pulled us along, revealing to us our strengths, our possibilities, and our place in the universe. His every action, kind and compassionate, enlightened us to our possibilities and made us see not only our personal responsibility but also our salvation.

    While on a trip to Egypt, Dr. Hirsh was injured and came back with an infection that led to his death nine days later. He died as he lived - like a meteor - quick, graceful, compelling. Those of us who were lucky enough to know him are so grateful to have been caught up, however briefly, in his reflected light.


    Founder of OMS & Seirin-America
    Thomas Riihimaki Passes Away

    Thomas Riihimaki died of cancer at his home in Cohasset, MA on May 23,2006 at the age of 60. He passed away peacefully in his sleep with his family by his side.

    Tom graduated from the New England School of Acupuncture. As Dr. Tin Yao So's student, Tom responded to the difficulty of acquiring acupuncture supplies by "sweat capitalizing" the importation of acupuncture needles into the U.S. Although there are now many equipment suppliers, when Tom started, acupuncture needles were "investigational devices" and acupuncturists were being arrested for practicing medicine without a license. Tom individually accepted the risks of importation and made further contributions that were critical for the development of this field.

    In the early 1980's when T.C.M. was introduced in the U.S., controversy concerning Dr. So's teachings contributed to the near failure of the New England School of Acupuncture. At that time it was one of two schools in the U.S. The other, the California Acupuncture College, later failed. Tom was one of only two people who risked their own homes and businesses to insure the school's tuition bond, thus saving it for future generations of students.

    Tom not only appreciated the medicine itself but embraced the philosophical and spiritual teachings that are so closely related. He took his time to appreciate the beauty of life and enjoyed such pursuits as yoga, rock climbing and Zen studies.

    He is survived by his wife, Julia (Helvie) Riihimaki; and three beloved children, Krista and Christopher Riihimaki, and Matthew Pike.

    Join us as we pause to give blessings and love to the transition of this humble man that gave so greatly to this profession and to those that shared his journey in life on this Earth.


    The American Acupuncturist is the official publication of the American Association of Oriental Medicine, published quarterly. Inside the journal you will find a wide variety of academic and political articles concerning the Oriental Medicine professional. Topics range from new techniques and treatments to updates on important legislation and reports from various AAOM committees. The American Acupuncturist keeps you abreast of all the latest research from the country's leading professionals. It is also the best source for information on upcoming seminars and conferences and updates on AAOM sponsored events.

    To read The American Acupuncturist online, visit http://www.aaom.org/?pagenumber=5062.


    Valuable Member Benefits for State Associations

    We are excited to offer our AAOM Member Associations two new member benefits!

    Get news and information into the hands that are shaping the future of Oriental Medicine.

    Set for release this month, the News Edition of the American Acupuncturist will be published alongside the existent journal and will reflect its content. We are expanding our readership to include the student body and faculty of OM colleges in the U.S., who will receive free copies of our broadsheet on a quarterly basis. AAOM members will continue to receive the American Acupuncturist journal in its original format.

    We hope you’ll join us for our Grow the State – Grow the Nation Campaign 2006. The combined synergy of all state associations coming together to work with us might just be all you need to see your membership grow beyond our imagination... together, let’s make it happen!

    Please respond by completing the Interactive Form provided. We will ask the following:

    State Association Name
    Contact Person
    Mailing Address
    Phone/Fax/Email
    Web Address
    Mission Statement
    Association Overview
    Membership Categories and Rate Structures:
    (As an example, AAOM membership categories are:
    Student - 1st year - 2nd Year - Professional. Each carries a different rate structure.)


    AAOM Announces Health Plans

    AAOM insurance partners, Hilb Rogal Hobbs Insurance (HRH) have teamed up with Comprehensive Insurance Marketing Services (CIMS), a Wellpoint & Blue Cross Company, to provide our members with a Health Insurance Call Center to help them obtain affordable health insurance coverage.

    If you are a practitioner seeking malpractice coverage, please contact the American Acupuncture Council, (AAC) for this line of coverage. All other AAOM Insurance needs are served through the HRH program.

    How Coverage Works: Generally, small groups (2+ employees) are available for “guaranteed issue” coverage while individuals may be subject to medical underwriting. Optional dental, vision, life and prescription drug plans are also available along with senior-Medicare plans including the new Part D drug benefit!

    Insurers and carriers with whom we work:

    • Aetna Health Plan
    • Assurant Life
    • Blue Cross of California
    • Blue Shield of California
    • Health Net
    • Kaiser Permanente Health Plan
    • Medical Savings Insurance Company
    • Nationwide Health Plan
    • PacifiCare/United Health Care

    This excellent service allows our members to shop for their coverage and look at alternatives without a sales presentation. The Health Insurance Call Center's personnel are licensed professionals who can explain the benefits, features and considerations of HMO's, PPO's, HSA's and a host of other competitive health insurance alternatives.

    California Based Pilot Program: We're rolling this out in the State of California first and will then expand the service to other states as the products become fully available. (States where pilot programs will be initiated next include: Nevada, Texas, Illinois and Indiana.) The Call Center can provide instant, online or faxed quotes on both group and individual health coverage.

    Multi-participant Programs: If you are an AAOM Member School or AAOM Member Association seeking to offer this program as a benefit to your student or member base in the pilot states identified, please contact the AAOM via the interactive response form provided, and the appropriate party will return your call to discuss a school-wide or an association-wide program for you!

    Individual Student and Practitioner Programs: Individual students and practitioners, you can contact:

    The Health Insurance
    Call Center at
    1-800-972-9820

    8:30 – 5:00 PM (PST)

    Call them today and see if they can save you money or get you into a health plan that better suits your needs!"

    www.aaominsurance.com

    Or, if you would like our Call Center to Call You, please provide your callback information to us, via our interactive response form and the information will be provided to our Insurance Call Center for response.

    Sincerely,

    Rebekah Christensen
    Executive Director


    AAOM announces Job Board
    The AAOM is pleased to announce its new Job Board, for Job Seekers, Employers, and Job Recruiters! This is an exciting advancement for our profession in that it will allow our practitioners to anonymously post their resume, (at no cost), allow potential Employers and Job Recruiters in the field of OM to post job openings, view resumes and contact potential candidates (all at a nominal rate). The AAOM Employment Board will serve the field of Oriental Medicine, and more broadly Job Seekers and Employers in the fields of OM, Complementary, and Integrative Medicine. This will be the first time that the breadth and depth of education, knowledge and experience that is present in our practitioner community is openly accessible to potential job generating opportunities!

    Use the links on the AAOM Job Board page to guide you as you begin your job search. Employers and recruiters: You now have access to our specialized niche. Browse our resumes or post your employment opportunity.


    2006 International Conference and Exhibition, "Oriental Medicine…Healing the Body, Mind and Spirit" For more information and to register, download our Conference Brochure (PDF).


    Invitation to our Business Members Exhibitors
    The AAOM Annual Conference grew by leaps and bounds in 2005; our final number was 683 attendees! We are leaving no stone unturned to exceed last year's growth - in number of attendees and in return on investment to our Exhibitors. In the same way that your business depends upon us, as practitioners, our business is made possible by the products and services you offer. We are all in this together. As of this writing 65% of our Booths have been sold! Don't miss your opportunity to Exhibit at Expo 2006; our Exhibitor Map, Exhibitor Invitation, and comprehensive information is available online.


    Acupuncture for Hurricane Trauma Victims

    Louisiana Medical Board Rules that Out-of-State Volunteer Acupuncturists Can Come Back

    Diana Fried, Executive Director of Acupuncturists Without Borders (AWB) recently announced that the Louisiana State Board of Medical Examiners (LSBME) enacted an emergency regulation on May 16, 2006 to allow out-of-state licensed acupuncturists to again offer free trauma relief treatments to victims of Hurricanes Katrina and Rita. This was done pursuant to an agreement worked on by AWB, LSBME representatives and the Louisiana Department of Health and Hospitals (DHH). The rule becomes effective on June 1, 2006.

    AWB, which has already provided over 4000 free treatments in the Greater New Orleans area since Hurricane Katrina, was forced to suspend its operations earlier this year when the emergency authority under which its volunteer acupuncturists were operating in Louisiana expired.

    As anyone who has witnessed the current situation in New Orleans knows, the stress and trauma continues to be enormous and the need for help is urgent. According to a Reuters article (Feb. 16, 2006): “Up to a third of those who lived through the death and destruction of Hurricane Katrina may be suffering from post-traumatic stress disorder and cannot find treatment, mental health professionals said Wednesday.

    Symptoms of the syndrome, known as PTSD during the Vietnam War but first recorded during the Civil War, include insomnia, nightmares, flashbacks, estrangement and attempted suicides.

    Executive Director Fried stated that: “Untreated trauma can lead to more violence, despair, health problems, and difficulties with recovery. We hope to begin operating as soon as possible after the emergency rule becomes effective. We have already begun contacting volunteers from around the county, who will need time to make work and travel arrangements. Funding is, of course, a major issue.”

    Fried also noted that a new, complicating factor is that FEMA has announced that it will close its volunteer housing facilities as of June 1st. “We relied on the FEMA tent cities to house our volunteers. The closing of these facilities is terrible news to us,” said Fried.

    AWB’s Director of Policy and Planning, John A. MacDonald, J.D., worked along with Board member, Keith C. Ferdinand, M.D., Board Attorney Philip O. Bergeron, and Erin E. Brewer, M.D., M.P.H., Assistant State Health Officer and Director of the Center for Community Health, Office of Public Health, DHH, to fashion the legal authority that would allow temporary permitting of out-of-state acupuncturists. MacDonald praised "these individuals" hard work and dedication to the health of Louisiana citizens.”

    Acupuncturists Without Borders, founded after Katrina hit New Orleans, offered free community treatments for stress and trauma in New Orleans from October 2005 into February 2006. Rotating teams of volunteer professional acupuncturists from across the country offer their unique services to health clinics, food distribution centers, Red Cross shelters, mobile units, churches, and the tent cities and hotels housing relief workers.

    Diana Fried, M. Ac., MA
    Executive Director, Acupuncturists Without Borders


    In closing, AAOM extends its appreciation to those of you contributing to our inaugural issue of the Qi-Unity Report. Subscriptions to Qi-Unity are FREE, so please send the Qi-Unity to a friend today, or simply forward this alert on to those on your distribution list. The depth and quality of reporting is dependent upon the depth and quality of input received from the community we serve.

    I am only one, but still I am one; I cannot do everything, but still I can do something; I will not refuse to do the something I can do.

    --Helen Keller     

    How to Contribute: To meet our monthly publishing deadline, contributions from the profession must be received by close of business the second Monday of each month. If you would like to contribute to this monthly newsletter, we recommend that you read the Qi-Unity Report E-Blast as comprehensive instructions are provided. Please no direct emails, as an online form is provided!

    ...Today, Do Something!

    Sincerely,


    Rebekah Christensen,
    Executive Director

    PS: Don't miss Expo 2006, scheduled October 19-23, at the Wigwam Resort and Spa, Litchfield Park (Phoenix), Arizona. You'll find Exhibitor and Attendee Brochures online at www.aaom.org!