Common Training Framework
Article 1: Definition and Scope of Medical Acupuncture
Medical Acupuncture (MA) specifically refers to the use of acupuncture by fully trained and licensed physicians.
MA can be integrated into and complement many medical specialties and disciplines. In particular pain medicine, physical medicine, orthopaedics, sports medicine, anaesthesiology, rehabilitation medicine, oncology & palliative care, neurology, psychiatry, paediatrics, dermatology, allergology and internal medicine.
Article 2: ICMART Accreditation Committee (IAC) for Medical Acupuncture
The IAC serves in the interest of the various national professional and scientific acupuncture societies worldwide.
The IAC encourages the application of modern principles of educational sciences as a general recommendation to all in charge of acupuncture training at any level,
Article 3: General Aspects of Training
1) In order to train the most suitable individuals in medical acupuncture, selection principles should be set up on a national basis. The selection procedure must be transparent and application must be open to all persons who have completed basic medical training.
2) The training and teaching techniques for the training programs should be in line with the recommendations of modern educational science.
3) During the training period a continuous evaluation of knowledge, abilities and skills should be undertaken and the IAC recommends that an exit examination be taken after completion of the training period.
Article 4: Organisation of training
The Core Topics
1) Education program
2) Theory lectures
3) Practical demonstrations
4) Practical sessions
5) Supervising staff
6) Educational support
7) Clinical and educational facilities
8) Academic support
Schedule of training
The minimum duration of MA training is 12 months and 200 Teaching Unit.
Curriculum of training
1) Fundamental scientific principles of acupuncture, 20TU
2) Acupuncture points, practical treatments, indications and safety aspects I, 20TU
3) Acupuncture points, practical treatments, indications and safety aspects II, 20TU
4) Acupuncture points, practical treatments, indications and safety aspects III, 20TU
5) Microsystems, electroacupuncture, 20TU
6) Practical acupuncture therapeutics, 60TU
7) Case studies, 40TU
Content
1) The program should include:
a) Case presentations
b) Lectures and small group teaching including practical exercises
c) Clinical skills demonstrations and teaching
d) Critical appraisal of evidence
2) The program may include:
a) Research or audit projects
b) National or international acupuncture meetings
Assessment and evaluation
Training institutions should provide a system of appraisal at the end of the program.
Article 5: Requirements for the Director of Training and Educational Supervisors
1) Every training institution should have a director of training or a member of the training committee:
a) Who has at least 5 years practice and/or teaching experience in Medical Acupuncture
b) Who has a sound practical knowledge of the field of acupuncture
c) Who is recognised by a national acupuncture association
2) The medical staff acting as educational supervisors should be actively practising and/or teaching Medical Acupuncture.
3) The director of training and the educational supervisors should participate in regular updating in educational and team leader skills.