Choose a professional

Did you know that there are no minimum or regulatory standards, for acupuncturists in the UK! This means that anyone can call themselves an acupuncturist, even if they have studied on a weekend or short course. This lack of training may seriously compromise patient safety, not to mention the effectiveness of a treatment.

A highly qualified practitioner has invested hugely in their training, which therefore means they can fully invest in you as the patient. They will have at least 3 years full time academic study of traditional acupuncture behind them, with a BSc degree or equivalent in the subject. This includes healthcare level of study in anatomy, physiology, and biomedicine modules for their degree. Additionally, they will have at least 400 hours of clinical education spent in the teaching clinic, learning acupuncture skills, observing other practitioners, and treating patients under supervision. They will have in depth knowledge of the principles and understanding of Chinese medicine, which provides key diagnostic skills in making accurate diagnoses and prescribing optimum acupuncture points for you as the individual, supporting both the symptoms and underlying presentation.  

Such practitioners have excellent evidence-based research knowledge, which form part of the course, and have carried out degree level research prior to qualification. Indeed, many traditional acupuncture practitioners go on to develop their research into MSc projects, with some studying to PhD level and above.

The depth of knowledge of a highly qualified acupuncture practitioner therefore ensures a full skill set of knowledge from both a contemporary and traditional perspective. This means that not only do they have a detailed understanding of the functions of each point in isolation, but they also know how to put together a collection of points for optimum effect.

Before choosing an acupuncturist to provide your care it is highly recommended that you check what qualifications your practitioner holds. Using a British Acupuncture Council member for your treatments always guarantee that your practitioner is highly qualified, licenced and fully up to date with treatment guidelines and safe practice. When choosing anyone else, or if in doubt, ask what course they have taken, through which university, and duration of study. Find out which professional organisation to which they may be affiliated and check what qualification requirements are required to join that organisation. You can also check with the local authority in the district where the practitioner is based to ensure they have a licence to carry out such treatments.