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.
Acupuncture Poll
The Acupuncture Poll question for November 2004 was:
What percentage of your patients do you refer out to medical doctors or chiropractors each month?
Results:
These results are based upon 605 responses. As this is a voluntary, non-scientific survey, caution should be used in generalizing the results. Here is a sample of the comments made by those who took the survey and how they voted. Some comments have been edited for brevity.
0%-20%: I rarely refer out to chiropractors or medical doctors, as I am usually a last resort to most patients that come through my door.
21%-40%: Most of my clients are referred out at some point (beyond the obligatory initial referral). However, they do not necessarily need a referral each month.
To vote in the current Acupuncture Poll, or to review comments and responses to previous poll questions, visit acupuncturetoday.com/acupuncturepoll.