Western Medicine Doctor

                  Western Medicine Doctor

Duties and Responsibilities:

While considered an alternative health practice in the West, acupuncture is a traditional Chinese medical art practiced for more than 5,000 years. It involves inserting fine needles at points on the body's surface to influence physiological functions. Acupuncture practitioners treat a wide range of physical and psychological conditions and provide support for patients with chronic diseases. Licensed acupuncture practitioners are trained to provide a broad range of healthcare services, including internal, dental and visual care, as well as addiction treatment, pain management and rehabilitation assistance. They may work in private practices, multidisciplinary clinic settings or hospitals. Other career options include teaching, research and writing.

Salary:

$167,05-$265,898

Education:

Most licensed acupuncturists hold master's degrees or post-baccalaureate certificates from schools accredited by the Accreditation Commission for Acupuncture and Oriental Medicine. As the Council of Colleges of Acupuncture and Oriental Medicine (CCAOM) explains, most programs require 1,500-2,000 hours of acupuncture training and take 3-4 years to complete. Graduates must pass the certification exam offered by NCCAOM and fulfill any additional state licensing requirements.