On April 1, 2026, China implemented a landmark national standard: Classification and Determination of TCM Constitution. Although designated as a recommended rather than mandatory standard, it represents a major step in modernizing traditional Chinese medicine (TCM) by converting traditional constitution theory into a clear, measurable and clinically practical framework. By clarifying the relationship between constitution, disease, and pattern differentiation, the standard strengthens professional credibility, supports research, and enhances patient-centered treatment.
Interesting Quotes
"Looking for certification after only a 300-hour course is not fair to those who studied 3000 hours and sat for the exam. If acupuncturists said they wanted to take 300 hours of chiropractic courses to be certified, I don't think the chiropractors would like it. Chiropractors know anatomy very well, and (they know) how to palpate, but it's another thing to learn how to needle, to do tongue and pulse diagnosis."
- Robert Borzone, DC, LAc, Long Island, New York
"To think that a chiropractor could do 300 hours and treat back pain in the spirit of acupuncture is not acceptable. It's not a question of having a pain in your back so you put a needle where it hurts. That would only diminish acupuncture and send the wrong message to consumers about what acupuncture is."
- Kathleen Golden, president, Acupuncture Society of New York
Reference
- Georgi K. Who should practice acupuncture? Traditional Chinese Medicine World, January 2000.