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.
Last Call for Comment on ACAOM Proposed First Professional Doctoral Accreditation Standards
On Oct. 1, 2007, the Accreditation Commission for Acupuncture and Oriental Medicine (ACAOM) released for public comment the first draft of proposed First-Professional Doctoral Accreditation Standards, which were developed by the ACAOM Doctoral Task Force.
Individuals and groups must submit those comments no later than Dec. 15, 2007, by visiting the following link: www.acaom.info. Individuals will be able to review the standards and submit commentary, or indicate that they are in support of the standards as written.
After the Doctoral Task Force reviews the feedback from the first draft, it will make appropriate revisions, as necessary. A second draft will be available for comments and input at a later date. The ACAOM's goal is to conclude this work by the summer of 2008.