Find Chinese medicine careers in the United States and Canada. With
the development of integrative and complementary medicines, Chinese
medicine careers are on the rise. Traditional Chinese medicine
including Tuina, acupuncture, and herbal medicine make up some of the
broad practices that are integrated into Chinese medicine careers.
According
to the National Center of Alternative and Complementary Medicine,
Chinese medicine careers in acupuncture are among the most popular CAM
practices in the United States. In a report published by the National
Institutes of Health (NIH), Chinese medicine careers in acupuncture are
"being widely practiced by thousands of physicians, dentists,
acupuncturists, and other practitioners – for relief or prevention of
pain and for various other health conditions."1
Chinese medicine
careers encompass a vast array of natural healing techniques and
modalities, including meridian therapy, Tai Chi, Qi gong, Chinese
medical massage (Tuina), acupuncture, herbology, moxibustion (cupping),
and related health and wellness methods.
While Chinese medicine
careers can be quite lucrative, it is critical to understand that proper
training and education is of utmost importance. Today, prospective
candidates interested in pursuing Chinese medicine careers must have
substantial instruction (and licensure, depending on specific field) in
order to practice professionally. If you’re one of many students drawn
to this ancient healing art, it is wise to carefully review state
educational requirements and regulations regarding Chinese medicine
careers. For example, Oriental medicine schools offering Chinese
medicine academic programs may vary in length and specialty. Some
training programs in Chinese medicine careers range from mere months, up
to five years.
Many Chinese medicine careers require a
comprehensive education in anatomy, biophysics, Oriental medicine,
nutrition, herbology, acupuncture, and needling techniques; this, in
addition to clinical experience and prerequisite education from an
accredited college or university. Furthermore, Chinese medicine careers
often require certification and/or licensure; and depending on the state
in which you reside, formal training requirements and internship
programs may be different.
