Elements for Developing an Academic Medical Acupuncture Practice: One Approach

Abstract

Abstract

Background:

Academic medical centers have long been centers for distribution of knowledge in the allopathic medical tradition. More often, these medical schools are including in their curricula, integrative medical techniques, including acupuncture.

Objective:

The aim of this article is to describe a “blueprint” for developing an academic medical acupuncture practice.

Methods:

The elements described include the three main pillars of an academic medical center: (1) clinical practice; (2) education; and (3) research.

Results:

Over a 5-year term, development of an academic medical practice was established at a major academic medical center with elements of all three main pillars.

Conclusions:

An academic medical acupuncture practice requires thoughtful planning guided by those elements common to allopathic academic medical practice as well as the planning challenges unique to acupuncture practice. Academic medical acupuncture programs are a true possibility within the allopathic medical tradition.