When it comes to acupuncture, it is crucial to know exactly what to say to your patients and to understand when your patients are expressing discomfort or concern. Depending on the school of acupuncture you follow, you may also need to learn the traditional language of that school. At the very least, you’ll need to learn the Chinese medical terms that are used in acupuncture. [2] X Expert Source Peter D’Aquino, L. Ac, MS, NCCAOMLicensed Acupuncturist Expert Interview. 14 April 2020.
Each state will also have rules regarding the “scope of practice,” that is, what you are allowed to do once licensed in that state. Individual states have different rules regarding certification reciprocity. If you want to practice acupuncture in two or more states, check with the individual states to determine what their rules are regarding the recognition of other state certifications. If you’re already a physician and would like to practice acupuncture, check out the American Board of Medical Acupuncture, which offers examinations and explains the standards for physicians who want to practice acupuncture. [3] X Research source
While a bachelor’s degree is ideal, some acupuncture schools only require two academic years of education at the baccalaureate level, or the equivalent, such as certification for a medical profession such as nursing. The requirements vary by program and state, so look at the requirements for your state and program.
Schools are certified by the Accreditation Commission for Acupuncture and Oriental Medicine (ACAOM), which can help you find programs in your state. [4] X Research source
The application fee for Acupuncture Certification is currently $475. Different certifications granted by the NCCAOM have different fees, so be sure to check if you intend to get a different certification. [6] X Research source The application also requires official transcripts from your AOM program, so be sure to contact your school and tell them to send those in. It is best to begin filling out the certification paperwork in the final year of your studies. It is best to check with your school for the best time to get that paperwork in. You don’t want to delay certification, as the process takes some time, and it will be very hard (if not impossible) to get a job without it. [7] X Research source
The NCCAOM’s website provides study guides to help prepare for the exam. [8] X Research source You cannot take the exam without first having your application approved by the NCCAOM. Some states will require additional exams for more certification. Check the list provided by the NCCAOM for the requirements in your state.
After each visit, make sure your clients book a follow-up appointment right away. This will encourage them to keep coming. Call up your clients the day before their appointments. This will greatly reduce the rate of no-shows and will show them you care. You can also get referrals from your clients. Ask them if they have any friends who would be interested in your practice. This is a great way to get even more clients.
Attending any continuing education courses can give you valuable experience, even if they aren’t business-related. Just as in any field of medicine, acupuncture treatments are constantly evolving. Pursue continuing training to learn new strategies, improve your techniques and keep your skills current.
If you miss these deadlines, your status will be considered “Lapsed” or “Inactive,” and require additional work to regain certification.
If you know a few acupuncturists who would want to move to your business with you, you already have a leg up.
