Who can practice acupuncture?
In China, acupuncturists receive training which is comparable to MD's. After earning their medical degree and completing a residency, they have the same title, privileges and legal standing as MDs. In the United States, the regulation and licensing of acupuncture varies from state to state. In many states, MD's, chiropractors and osteopaths are allowed to call themselves “acupuncturists” with a minimal amount of training -- anywhere from 0 to 200 hours. However, to become a licensed acupuncturist (L.Ac.) one must complete several thousand hours of training specifically in acupuncture and Chinese medicine, as well as pass written and practical national board examinations. In Virginia, all L.Ac.’s are licensed by the Virginia Board of Medicine.
Matthew Miller, MB (China), L.Ac, the acupuncturist in our clinic, is a licensed acupuncturist who received his training in China, where he lived for nine years. He earned his medical degree from the Chengdu University of Traditional Chinese Medicine, specializing in acupuncture.
Matthew also teaches Tai Chi at Mind Body Studio in Lynchburg, VA.
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