Publications

Acupuncture in California

Author(s): 

Catherine Dower

Date: 
Apr 2003

Acupuncture is an ancient healing profession that is growing in popularity and acceptance in the U.S. as a complement or an alternative to western medicine. Licensed Acupuncturists in California make up a large and growing health care workforce. More than 6,000 in number, they provide primary and complementary care to many Californians. This Issue Brief examines this workforce and the critical issues and policy concerns facing the profession, including: Reimbursement, Safety and efficacy, Education and moving to a doctoral degree, Other professionals adding on modality, Job market issues, and National certification.