Message from the NCCAOM Chair and CEO
As the Holiday season approaches, it’s time to pause, express gratitude, and celebrate the progress we’ve made together. This season reminds us of the importance of connection, growth, and renewal—values that resonate deeply within the Acupuncture and Herbal Medicine (AHM) community.
The Holidays offer an opportunity to reflect on the past year: the milestones we’ve achieved, the challenges we’ve overcome, and the ways we’ve grown both personally and professionally. For NCCAOM Diplomates, 2024 has been a year of meaningful accomplishments as mentioned below, thanks to your dedication to excellence in patient care and your commitment to advancing the AHM profession. Together, we’ll celebrate how these achievements have strengthened our profession and paved the way for continued success in the year ahead.
As we enter this season of giving and gratitude, let’s also take a moment to appreciate the contributions of our incredible community.
The year began on a powerful note, showcasing the profession’s commitment to growth, ethical standards, and impactful advocacy. In February, the NCCAOM ASA Town Hall on Medicare, “ drew a remarkable turnout, underscoring the widespread interest and engagement within the acupuncture community on this vital issue. This event highlighted the collective drive to expand access to acupuncture for seniors and marked a key moment in advancing the profession’s legislative goals.
In tandem with these advocacy efforts, the NCCAOM reaffirmed its dedication to ethical excellence with the launch of the Acupuncture National Discipline Database (ANDD). Spearheaded by the NCCAOM Professional Ethics and Disciplinary Committee (PEDC), under the leadership of Chair Michael Taromina, Esq., ANDD provides a comprehensive resource for tracking disciplinary actions for licensed and certified acupuncturists across the U.S.
This one-stop search engine consolidates state and national public information on disciplinary matters, setting a new benchmark in healthcare self-regulation, transparency, and accountability. By offering unparalleled public disclosure and upholding the highest professional ethics, ANDD serves not only as a safeguard for the public but also as a pioneering model for other healthcare professions to emulate.
Together, these initiatives demonstrate the acupuncture community’s shared commitment to advancing the profession, protecting public trust, and shaping a future of greater accessibility and ethical integrity.
In March, the NCCAOM Board of Commissioners said farewell to our respected Commissioner, Dr. Daniel Jiao, DAOM, Dipl. O.M. (NCCAOM)® L.Ac and was appointed with the title, Commissioner Emeritus, to honor his total of fifteen years of Board service. This is the first honoree given such a title.
In addition, The NCCAOM would also like to express our gratitude to Dr. Iman Majd, MD, MS, EAMP/L.Ac, Dip. ABFM, ABoIM, Dipl. Ac. (NCCAOM)®, DABMA, ABIHM as his service as Immediate Past Chair came to an end this year.
The 2024 Job Task Analysis Survey, conducted every 5 – 7 years, aims to gather crucial data directly from practitioners in the field. This comprehensive data collection process informs the development and refinement of examination content, ensuring that NCCAOM certifications align with current practice standards. The demographic data collected is also instrumental in sharing with government agencies such as the Bureau of Labor Statistics and Center for Medicare and Medicaid Services to ensure that they have accurate data on our profession for inclusion and recognition of Acupuncturists. Collection of data from the profession is an important part of our advocacy efforts.
The survey was sent to over 33,000 practitioners, comprised of both NCCAOM Board Certified Diplomates and state-licensed acupuncturists. This extensive distribution helped to gather valuable insights from our diverse group of professionals. Over 5,000 practitioners participated, a record-breaking number, contributing valuable insights that will influence the development of a new exam blueprint and exams items.
As we continue to stay connected to our Diplomates, schools and students, the NCCAOM hosted several webinars throughout the year, informing all of our advocacy efforts, and other advancements we make on their behalf.
The year also saw significant strides in uniting the Acupuncture and Herbal Medicine (AHM) profession through the work of the AHM Coalition. This collaborative initiative brought together key stakeholders from four leadership organizations (ACAHM, CCAHM, ASA and NCCAOM), focusing on amplifying the collective voice of the AHM community. The AHM Coalition has been instrumental in advocating for the integration of acupuncture and herbal medicine into the broader healthcare systems, emphasizing the value of these services in improving patient outcomes. By fostering dialogue, sharing resources, and driving coordinated efforts, the AHM Coalition exemplifies the power of unity in advancing the profession’s shared goals and ensuring its continued growth and recognition. The AHM Coalition hosted two Town Halls in May and October of this year.
In light of our national efforts to advance the profession, the NCCOM and ASA hosted several Town Halls in 2024:
- The Most Important Thing You Can Do for the Profession in February 2024
- Legal Town Hall in September 2024
- What Medicare and Medicaid Can Do for the Acupuncture Profession in October 2024
Also in March, the NCCAOM welcomed Wu-Hsun (Tom) Yang, ND, Dipl. O.M. (NCCAOM)® L.Ac. as an addition to the Board. He brings a wealth of knowledge, skills and expertise with a fresh perspective.
Throughout the year, the NCCAOM actively engaged with the community by hosting a booth at various conferences to include the Florida Acupuncture Education Day and participating in key events such as the ASA Annual Conference, the Consortium Symposium in Cleveland, the CCAHM Spring Conference, FSOMA, and the ACIH/AIHM Leadership Summit and Conference. These events allowed us to connect with practitioners, share resources about the NCCAOM, and advance discussions on the future of Acupuncture and Herbal Medicine (AHM).
Last summer, the NCCAOM submitted an update to the Department of Labor’s Bureau of Labor Statistics during a comment period for the 1st Federal Register to update the Standard Occupational Classification (SOC) for Acupuncturists in the next SOC Manual. This update focused on providing a clear and precise definition of acupuncture services, along with a detailed description of the practice and the qualifications, roles, and responsibilities of Acupuncturists. This effort ensures a standardized understanding of the profession and its practices. The update was the result of exceptional collaborative efforts by the BLS Taskforce. The taskforce, comprising representatives from all four leadership organizations—the Accreditation Commission for Acupuncture and Herbal Medicine (ACAHM), the Council of Colleges for Acupuncture and Herbal Medicine (CCAHM), the American Society of Acupuncturists (ASA), and the NCCAOM—worked diligently to ensure the update was comprehensive and accurate. The timing was impeccable, coinciding perfectly with the release of the results of the 2024 NCCAOM Job Analysis survey, which provided valuable insights into the profession. The taskforce’s dedication and teamwork were instrumental in submitting the update before the August 12 deadline, showcasing their commitment to advancing the field of acupuncture.
As the year progressed, October marked the celebration of Acupuncture and Herbal Medicine (AHM) Day, a moment to reflect on the growing recognition of these practices. In November, we joined forces with the European Traditional Chinese Medicine Association (ETCMA) to commemorate World Acupuncture Day, highlighting the global appreciation and increasing interest in traditional and complementary medicine practices. These milestones underscored the profession’s international relevance and its vital role in holistic healthcare.
2024 marks a year full of advancements, connections and collaborations, and we are indebted to our volunteers, Board Commissioners and staff who are instrumental in our success.
We wish you and your loved ones a Holiday Season filled with peace, joy, and health. Your unwavering commitment to excellence and dedication to advancing our profession continue to inspire us. As we look ahead, we eagerly anticipate the opportunities the future holds and the progress we’ll achieve together.
With gratitude,
Janet Zand, O.M.D., Dipl. Ac., C.H.,
O.M. (NCCAOM)®, L.Ac., CCN
NCCAOM Board Chair
Mina M. Larson, M.S., MBA, CAE
NCCAOM CEO
Federal Advocacy Update
By Molly Ford, Director of Government Relations (NCCAOM)®
The NCCAOM® Advocacy team represents NCCAOM certification, Diplomates, and stakeholders by providing information to promote acupuncture services to state and federal policymakers, the U.S. Department of Health and Human Services (HHS), the Centers for Medicare & Medicaid Services (CMS), as well as other stakeholder groups.
Federal Update
At the time of this entry, the Republican party is posed to become a trifecta force in January 2025 after gaining control of the House, Senate, and White House during the recent Presidential and Congressional elections. While much is still up in the air, a Republican-controlled government will mean more succinct cuts to federal spending and existing federal programs, tax cuts for small businesses, and possibly more emphasis on non-pharmaceutical medicines.
Through the end of the year, Congress will work through a series of must-pass legislation in what is commonly referred to as a lame-duck session. Advocacy efforts for H.R. 3133, the Acupuncture for our Seniors Act, will continue throughout the lame-duck session. Any progress made through the end of the 118th Congressional session (2023-2024) will help ready the Acupuncture for our Seniors Act for re-introduction in 2025.
Efforts to advance the Acupuncture for our Seniors Act may soon expand beyond H.R. 3133 via a Senate companion bill. Stay tuned for more updates as they become available on Senate activity in the 118th and 119th Congressional sessions.
Thank you to everyone who has signed up to take part in virtual or in-person meetings with their U.S. Representatives’ offices! We’ve had a record number of sign-ups this year—you are keeping us busy scheduling meetings!
And just a reminder that our primary focus at this time is securing Republican co-sponsors to the Acupuncture for our Seniors Act by prioritizing meetings with Republican offices. This means that in most cases, the NCCAOM lobbying team will schedule meetings for those who live or work in districts or states that have Republican members of Congress as quickly as possible. We will hold off on scheduling meetings for those who live or work in Democratic jurisdictions until we’ve secured additional Republican support for the Acupuncture for our Seniors Act.
We still welcome and appreciate all sign ups and will eventually get to everyone! The NCCAOM lobbying team invites acupuncturists, students, and patients to sign up for virtual or in-person meetings with us. Participating is easy and just requires a simple sign up or through the QR code below. We will take care of scheduling meetings and preparing you for them. We also accompany you in these meetings. Your role is to localize and personalize the importance of this bill to your patients, community, and practice.
Sign-Up Options
Simply scan the QR code below, or click here to sign up, or email [email protected]. All of these options will get you into our scheduling queue.
External Activity to Promote the Acupuncture for our Seniors Act
Acupuncture and Herbal Medicine (AHM) Coalition Town Hall – October 24, 2024
Leaders from the ACH Coalition members—ACAHM, ASA, CCAHM and NCCAOM—commemorated Acupuncture and Herbal Medicine Day by taking part in a town hall to discuss the future of the acupuncture profession and the importance of our federal advocacy efforts. A special thanks to Michael Taromina for moderating the event.
NIH National Center for Complementary and Integrative Health – Bethesda, MD
Molly Ford represented the NCCAOM at the NCCIH Coalition of Whole Person Health’s inaugural Outreach and Education Day, which brough Coalition members together to discuss strategies for promoting the Coalition’s mission. The NCCAOM Advocacy team will keep Diplomates updated on the Coalition’s activities and strategies that seek to raise awareness of whole-person health, increase research opportunities, and increase access to whole-person health.
Grassroots at your Fingertips
There are many ways to connect with your Congressional Representative to convey your support for the Acupuncture for our Seniors Act. The NCCAOM advocacy team offers its grassroots software platform to help you, your patients, Senior Citizens, and general supporters of the profession message their U.S. Representatives about H.R. 3133. Simply text any of the following phrases to 52886:
- “Acupuncture” – Acupuncture Campaign
- “Student” – Student Campaign
- “Acupuncture Patient” – Patient Campaign
- “Acupuncture Senior” – Senior Citizen Campaign
- “Acupuncture Ally” – Ally Campaign
After texting 52886, follow the generated link to an email and Twitter message that you can send to your Representatives as is, or modify to provide additional information.
Example: If you’re an acupuncturist, type Acupuncture to 52886, if you’re a student, type Student to 52886, etc.
You can also send any of these letters from your computer.
Medicare-Recognition Background
Obtaining provider status under Medicare would enable acupuncturists to directly bill Medicare for the covered services that they provide to Medicare beneficiaries (generally those 65 and older). This recognition is critical to advancing the acupuncturist profession, as it would grant more individuals access to qualified acupuncturists—and more qualified acupuncturists access to those over 65 years of age. Medicare recognition would also help the profession collect and generate data on the acupuncture benefits, particularly with regard to quality and cost.
The NCCAOM and ASA continue to maintain a series of resources to help educate the profession on Medicare recognition and the steps required for Medicare provider status. Read more about how Medicare provider status would affect the profession by visiting the NCCAOM’s Advocacy Page.
The NCCAOM Advocacy Represents You
The NCCAOM advocacy team works tirelessly to advocate for its Diplomates. If there is an issue, challenge, or opportunity you would like to convey to the team, please do not hesitate to reach out!
Read more about the NCCAOM’s advocacy efforts at the NCCAOM Advocacy Page. Please contact the NCCAOM Advocacy team with any questions regarding the NCCAOM’s Advocacy efforts and ways to get involved.
– The NCCAOM Advocacy Team
NCCAOM Job Analysis:
Ensuring Excellence in Acupuncture and Herbal Medicine
The National Certification Commission for Acupuncture and Oriental Medicine (NCCAOM) recently conducted a comprehensive Job Analysis (JA) to update the examination content outlines for its certification programs. This process ensures that the certification exams remain relevant and valid, reflecting the competencies required for entry-level practice in acupuncture and herbal medicine. The NCCAOM would like to express heartfelt gratitude to all who contributed their time and expertise to advance the profession. All who completed the survey received up to 12 PDA points depending on the number of exam content sessions completed. Additionally, the NCCAOM conducted six weekly raffle drawings after the survey’s completion, with several high-tech gadgets and free recertification vouchers serving as raffle prizes.
Purpose and Methodology
The Job Analysis involved interviews with subject matter experts, two JA Panel meetings, and a large-scale validation survey distributed to over 33,000 licensed acupuncture and herbal medicine practitioners from March 13 to May 5, 2024. The survey results, with a high response rate of 17.1%, confirmed the relevance of the updated examination content outlines.
Key Findings
The survey identified necessary updates to the examination content outlines, including the removal of certain job tasks and the addition of new ones. These changes ensure that the exams accurately reflect the current practices and competencies required in the field.
Impact and Future Steps
The updated content outlines will be used to remap the current NCCAOM certification examination questions and assemble new examination forms. The new outlines are expected to be available in early 2025, with implementation anticipated in 2026. Additionally, the detailed JA Executive Summary of the survey will become available in January 2025.
The data from the demographic portion of the survey will help gain government recognition via the Bureau of Labor and Statistics (BLS) by providing updated information about the acupuncture profession.
Conclusion
The NCCAOM Job Analysis is a vital process that upholds the high standards of the NCCAOM’s certification examinations, ensuring they remain relevant and legally defensible. This ongoing effort not only supports the excellence and professionalism of practitioners in the acupuncture and herbal medicine field but also reflects our commitment to advancing the profession. We are grateful for the dedication and expertise of all those who contribute to this important work, helping to shape a brighter future for our community and the patients we serve.
The Importance of NCCAOM Certification and its Benefits
By Olga Cox, Chief Operating Officer, NCCAOM®
Maintaining your NCCAOM certification is more than a professional requirement—it’s a statement of excellence and dedication to the Acupuncture and Herbal Medicine (AHM) field. This certification not only demonstrates your commitment to meeting the highest professional standards but also positions you for greater opportunities.
Certified Diplomates gain access to prestigious job opportunities, such as roles within the U.S. Department of Veterans Affairs (VA), the largest employer of licensed acupuncturists in the country. Moreover, NCCAOM certification signifies your ongoing pursuit of knowledge and skill development, ensuring you provide the best possible care to your patients.
The Recertification Process
The recertification process might seem challenging at first, but NCCAOM has worked diligently to simplify it. With the introduction of CE Banking in 2020, the process is now more streamlined and user-friendly. Here’s how you can ensure a smooth recertification journey:
- Review the Requirements
To maintain your NCCAOM certification, you must submit a recertification application and earn 60 PDA points every four years. These PDA points must include the following mandatory requirements:- At least 4 hours of CPR (online or in-person).
- A minimum of 2 hours in Safety.
- A minimum of 2 hours in Ethics.
The CE Banking system simplifies this process by automatically adding PDA points from eligible course completions to your Recertification Transcript when courses are registered correctly. For activities not directly approved by NCCAOM, manual CE reporting is available to ensure all your efforts count.
- Track Your Progress
Regularly review your Recertification Transcript in your certification account to monitor your PDA points and learning activities. This centralized system makes it easy to track your progress and meet all requirements. Click here to learn how to access your Recertification Transcript. - Submit Your Application Early
You can submit your recertification application up to one year before your certification expiration date. Early submission ensures ample time for processing and helps avoid any lapses in certification. Be sure to complete all PDA points and mandatory courses before applying to avoid delays.
Continuing Education Opportunities: Invest in Your Growth
Continuing education is more than a requirement, it’s a chance to deepen your expertise, stay informed about new developments, and enhance your practice. Here are meaningful ways to earn PDA points while advancing your professional growth:
- Webinars: Join live or recorded webinars on diverse topics in AHM. These sessions, accessible from anywhere, provide flexible opportunities to learn about the latest research and innovative techniques.
- Courses: Enroll in accredited courses to expand your knowledge of advanced acupuncture methods, herbal medicine safety, and other specialized areas.
- Workshops: Participate in hands-on workshops to enhance your practical skills. These immersive experiences not only meet PDA requirements but also enrich your ability to deliver exceptional care.
- Professional Development Activities: Engage in activities such as writing articles, mentoring students, or volunteering in community health initiatives. These options allow you to earn PDA points while making meaningful contributions to the AHM community.
By embracing these opportunities, you’ll not only meet recertification requirements but also elevate your professional expertise, staying at the forefront of the AHM field and delivering greater value to your patients.
Take Action Today!
Start planning your recertification journey now to stay ahead in your field. Explore the available continuing education opportunities and make your professional development a priority. Don’t wait—secure your future as a leader in AHM!
NCCAOM Diplomate Webinar
December 4, 2024
Power Point slide deck and
Q & A Factsheet
are available here
Acupuncture and Herbal Medicine Day 2024: Recap
By Siri Chavvakula, Coordinator, Digital Marketing and Communications
In honoring our profession and embracing our future, it is crucial to encourage research and educate the public about the benefits of the AHM profession. Acupuncturists have consistently demonstrated a commitment to compassion and understanding, which has helped increase access to treatment for millions of people suffering from various ailments. This philosophy has been instrumental in ensuring that anyone seeking treatment can find it, thereby enhancing the reach and effectiveness of acupuncture and herbal medicine.
AHM Day serves as a powerful platform for all acupuncture practitioners to voice their appreciation and excitement for the future. The celebrations showcased the strength, resilience, and healing power of the AHM community through various events, including a townhall with national leaders of the AHM Coalition highlighting the future of acupuncture in the U.S.
As we reflect on the recent Acupuncture and Herbal Medicine (AHM) Day held on October 24, 2024, we are delighted to share the highlights of the various events and activities that took place. This year’s celebration was a resounding success, bringing together practitioners, patients, and enthusiasts to promote awareness and education about the benefits of acupuncture and herbal medicine.
AHM Coalition Town Hall
In honor of Acupuncture Medicine Day, the AHM Coalition hosted a virtual Town Hall meeting and celebrated our 22nd AHM Day. Michael Taromina, led a discussion on securing the future of acupuncture in the U.S. with national leaders John Yoo, ACAHM, Thomas Kouo, CCAHM, Molly Ford, NCCAOM, Olivia Hsu Friedman, ASA. The discussion highlighted the coalition’s mission, vision, and goals, and plans for integrating Medicaid and Medicare into the acupuncture profession. The event emphasized collaboration and the importance of advancing professional standards through education, advocacy, and research. Click here for the townhall replay!
State Proclamations
The ASA has partnered with state and local acupuncture organizations in an effort to have the AHM Day holiday officially recognized. This year AHM Day was officially proclaimed a holiday in Maryland, Massachusetts, and Vermont! To view all of the places that proclaimed Acupuncture and Herbal Medicine Day a holiday, please click here.!
AHM Day Photo Contest
The NCCAOM has organized the 2024 Photo Contest which has seen active participation from practitioners, patients, and students to showcase their love for acupuncture and herbal medicine through fascinating photos. The winning entries received recognition on NCCAOM’s social media platforms and even awarded them with one free recertification as well as 2 NCCAOM PDA points for all participants with approved photo entries.
AHM Day Events
AHM Day extended its influence by offering an opportunity to host virtual or in-person events through the annual AHM Day Event Drive.The significance of increasing public awareness was emphasized by offering Free Marketing materials and a raffle drawing for a Free Premium website for Acupuncturists, courtesy of Acupuncture Media Works and AcuPerfect Websites. This initiative aimed to empower practitioners to promote AHM Day within their communities and online, thereby showcasing the effectiveness of acupuncture and herbal medicine.!
World Acupuncture Day
Alongside the AHM Day celebrations, we also marked World Acupuncture Day on November 16th. This global initiative, which involves leading associations and professional organizations in acupuncture and herbal medicine (AHM), promoting AHM through social media and the press. The European Traditional Chinese Medicine Association (ETCMA) collaborated with other world leaders in the TCM profession to celebrate and commemorate this day by encouraging participation in their global campaign and offer resources like graphics and petitions to support the cause. The event showcased the practice of acupuncture in over 182 countries and invited practitioners to add their voices to a global map highlighting the profession. View all campaigns here.!
NCCAOM Diplomate Spotlight: Georjana Shames, Dipl. O.M. (NCCAOM)®
Every quarter, the NCCAOM draws the name of a recently recertified Diplomate who has completed the NCCAOM® Diplomate Demographic Survey. This crucial survey gathers essential demographic data, aiding NCCAOM and the profession in initiatives such as obtaining federal recognition. The survey winner is awarded a voucher for free recertification and an opportunity to be featured in a Spotlight Article on our website. We encourage all Diplomates to take part in this important survey to support the advancement of the profession and for a chance to win free recertification. The winner of October 1, 2024, draw is Gigi Shames, Dipl. O.M. (NCCAOM)®, a licensed acupuncturist and doctor of Natural Health who practices at Ochsner Health, Greater New Orleans area, Louisiana.
Introduction
Dr. Gigi Shames is a Doctor of Natural Health and a Licensed Acupuncturist. She holds a Bachelor of Arts degree from New College of Florida, a Master of Traditional Chinese Medicine degree from Five Branches University in California, a Doctor of Natural Health degree from Clayton College in Alabama, Acupuncture licensure in Louisiana and California, and nationwide NCCAOM certifications in Acupuncture, Herbal Medicine, Foundations of Oriental Medicine, and Biomedicine. In the past she had a private practice for 15 years, before working for Modern Acupuncture, and Five Branches University. In 2023, she was hired by Ochsner Health as their regional acupuncturist at two New Orleans area hospitals, and is also their Engagement Ambassador for the acupuncture team as well as guest lecturing for the Ochsner Neurosciences Symposium. When not at work, she is playing sports and making art with her 4-year-old daughter Savvy.
In this interview, she shares her story, insights, and surprises about her work and her profession.
Question: What attracted you to the field of Acupuncture and Oriental Medicine?
Answer:
What first attracted me to Acupuncture and Oriental Medicine was the ability to use ancient techniques from five thousand years ago, to help people overcome difficulties in the modern world. We often think of our pain, or psychic pain, as specific to us from unique circumstances that can feel quite personal, but I often think about Otzi the Iceman, how his body was preserved in the Siberian tundra since around 3200 BCE. His tattoos indicate he was treated with acupuncture for many of the same conditions I treat in my patients today! He had arthritis that likely caused dull throbbing pain in his neck, low back, and hips. He had hardening of the arteries we might have attributed to a modern diet, but since he ate plants, seeds, and wild game, this calcification was likely due to genetics. He had survived broken ribs that had fully healed by the time he was around age 45 and felled by an arrow from behind him, but if not for that, signs indicate he probably would have passed away within a decade of a heart attack.
It’s fascinating to think what his treatments with Copper Age acupuncture tools were like; plus he was found with a medicine pouch of herbs on his belt (a fungus he likely used for intestinal parasites). I think it’s so cool I work today in a state-of-the-art modern hospital alongside neurologists and physical therapists, while using ancient points and knowledge to treat pain.
Question: What is your impression of the NCCAOM ® as a certified Diplomate?
Answer: Lovely. I am so thankful as someone who has moved states from California and needed to be certified fast so I could support my kiddo and myself in my new state of Louisiana, at how NCCAOM streamlines the process. It’s been convenient beyond words to be able to skip a huge process that might involve re-taking Board exams which would be, shall we say, NOT ideal. Instead, I can put my national certification to work for me: send that in digitally to apply for licensure then new state license is mailed to me.
Question: What would you tell someone who is thinking about applying for certification with the NCCAOM?
Answer: Do it immediately; you never know when life circumstances will change and you have to transfer your skills and your certifications to a new area. A lot of what we plan for in life never comes to pass, but let’s say something truly unexpected does need to happen, the best way forward is streamline the process to get it done correctly and fast.
Question: Why did you think it was important to complete Diplomate Demographic Survey?
Answer: I’m glad our members can have their voices heard both within and outside of our profession. Most people, if we are lucky enough to find ourselves in a long career, will experience some unique challenges of practice at some point. Moving regions; switching to ‘hospital style’ acupuncture from ’boutique style’ acupuncture or vice versa. It’s important the organization gathers all data and knows what to look for in various states and regions. Not surprisingly I’ve found that California and Louisiana are very different states to practice in: differing rules with insurance, differing patient populations. But the main aspect is the same: helping patients with techniques we learned back in acupuncture school and through continuing ed. But we might seek out different courses for CEUs depending on our current patient demographics, for instance. Ochsner develops world-class cancer treatment programs, for example, often in conjunction with MD Anderson and other facilities; so they paid for me to take the Oncology Acupuncture certification this year.
Question: As an acupuncturist, what trends do you see in your profession?
Answer: More veterans are coming in as more and more the VA is noticing excellent effects for our current and former servicemembers. Since many of our vets deal with pain as well as overcoming difficult life experiences, it’s a great match for acupuncture!
Question: What do you think are the most beneficial aspects and challenging aspects of your field?
Answer: Immensely enjoyable interactions with colleagues and patients would be the most beneficial aspect to me personally; I thrive in a supportive and yet intellectually stimulating environment. And one challenge is understanding how insurances work (especially across state lines for example) for acupuncture payment and reimbursements for patients. In private practice the reality for me was I had to give people fee slips they could use for their own insurance reimbursements, it didn’t make sense at the time for me to pay a biller; but paying upfront is prohibitive for a lot of patients and we don’t want that to be the case.
Question: What do you wish other people knew about the field of Acupuncture & Oriental and Medicine?
Answer: It’s quite difficult and expensive at the outset of your journey to become licensed, but especially with amazing hospitals hiring us more and more, the career itself is so rewarding, it is worth it!
Question: Is there a particular specialty or interest as part of your practice (OBGYN, Orthopedics)?
Answer: Pain Management overall, especially for back pain and joint pain. So many people have recurring back pain and so many days of work are lost to this one condition, that insurance companies tend to cover it. MD’s want their patients to see us for it, and to avoid writing prescriptions for opioid use if possible. Not to mention I know personally how it feels when you’re holding your young baby on one hip and trying to shampoo the carpet with your other arm at the same time, and you think you’re really being productive until all of a sudden it feels like a disc explodes in your back. That will stop you immediately in your tracks, possibly have you laid out for weeks, and can change your whole life. I never ever want to experience it again, and I know I’m not alone in that. So we have to work to avoid that ever after, with acupuncture and biking and trying to keep the muscles supporting the spine strong and supple.
Question: What do you do when you aren’t working?
Answer: Hanging out with my sweet 4 year-old, even having her volunteer with me at local science fairs sponsored by Ochsner. It’s a wonderful feeling being part of an organization that takes pride in uplifting the community and focusing on what’s most important to employees. Family and friends generally give us our life’s greatest joy; why not have a ball at work also though? I have always felt a sense of purpose in the acupuncture field, yet being a mom takes it to a new level. We like being at home splinting her stuffed animals’ legs and tails with tape and popsicle sticks. Recently at her grandparents’ we were showing her doctor papa and nurse nana her skills, and she corrected me when I mentioned “splinting;” she said “No mom, now I’m just bandaging,” which was correct! Moments like these are such a huge joy. I hope to show her a love of learning combined with the joie de vivre we get from connecting with people, is often the best recipe for a life well lived.
Happy Holidays from all of us at NCCAOM!
Please note that NCCAOM Offices will be closed from 12:00 PM EST on December 24th, 2024 to January 2nd, 2025.
Our offices will reopen at 9:00 AM EST on January, 2, 2025.
Thank you and have wonderful Holidays! We look forward to serving you in the New Year!
We hope you enjoyed this edition of the
NCCAOM Diplomate E-News You Can Use!
Happy Holidays!