Acupuncture in the US

Regulatory Context

All states in the U.S. have laws requiring some form of licensing or certification for acupuncture practice. However, these laws vary significantly. Most states allow medical doctors and osteopaths to practice acupuncture without formal training or examination. Some states permit chiropractors or naturopaths to perform acupuncture with some training but no required examination. Other states allow podiatrists, dentists, physician’s assistants, nurses, or drug detox specialists to perform acupuncture in certain restricted manners, sometimes without required education or examinations.

Licensed or certified acupuncturists are specialists who have completed accredited educational programs and passed formal examinations. All but four states (Alabama, Oklahoma, South Dakota, and Wyoming) authorize acupuncture by these specialists. Consumers in those four states can still usually find these specialists through the NCCAOM database.

While training varies among those who practice acupuncture, consumers should investigate potential providers as they would any healthcare professional. Verify legal authorization, inquire about experience, treatment plans, costs, and insurance coverage. Always ask about needle usage and sterilization procedures.

As with any health care provider, those providing acupuncture should be able to answer your questions. Consider your comfort level with the provider. Acupuncture is generally safe. If you are not helped by an acupuncturist, it may be due to their level of training or experience, not the inefficacy of acupuncture itself.