Acupuncture Facts

Facts about California Licensed Acupuncturists (LAc):

Most people are not aware of the training involved to become a California Licensed Acupuncturist (L.Ac.).  Currently, the Master’s of Oriental Medicine Program is 3000+ hours of training and clinical work.  This is more education hours than are required for Lawyers and many other Master’s programs.  The required education and training covers both Eastern and Western Medicine including: Western medications, Western lab testing, and Western Diagnosis.  More facts about Licensed Acupuncturists:

• In California, Licensed Acupuncturists (L.Ac.) are required to hold a Masters of Acupuncture and Oriental Medicine – A Professional Master’s Degree (MS).
• Acupuncturists in California can be elected as a Primary Care Provider. This high level of responsibility is granted because of extensive education required of an LAc.
• MDs & DCs sometimes also practice acupuncture.  They generally receive far less training than L.Ac.’s.  Often, Western doctors are only required 60-80 hours of class time to practice acupuncture.
• Like other professions, Licensed Acupuncturists often specialize in certain areas of practice. It is generally best to see a specialist when seeking health care.
• Most acupuncturist work with both an Eastern and Western diagnosis when treating patients.  By looking at the body through both frames of reference, the ideal holistic and Western methods can be utilized for the best results.
• The mission of the California Acupuncture Board is: “To benefit, educate and protect the public through regulation of licensure; development of education standards; provision of consumer information; and enforcement of the Acupuncture Licensure Act.” In summary, the California Acupuncture Board exists to protect you, the public.