Confusion is apparent concerning the term "lapsed status." By definition, an individual/constituent in "lapsed status" has allowed their certification with the NCCAOM to "expire" and is no longer considered a Diplomate certified by the NCCAOM. Currently, NCCAOM permits a former Diplomate in lapsed status up to eight years to return to active certification status. Those that do not recertify within eight years allow their certification with the NCCAOM to terminate. Once terminated, a constituent (i.e., a former Diplomate) must reapply and meet all current eligibility requirements.
As of January 1, 2013, NCCAOM certification will terminate for any constituent in lapsed status more than three years from their date of expiration (i.e. certification expires on 12/31/2009 and recertification does not occur prior to 12/31/2012). Currently, NCCAOM provides two routes for former Diplomates to return to active status.
In conjunction with the change to a three year time line for individuals in lapsed status, Recertification Route 1 will be eliminated on January 1, 2013. This economical route to return to active status provides a viable solution to individuals lapsed for multiple years. As of 2012, the recertification application fee and the late fee (formerly known as lapsed fee) have changed. Full details can be found on pages 15-16 of the 2012 NCCAOM® Recertification Handbook.
If you are unsure of your NCCAOM status, contact the NCCAOM by e-mail at info@thenccaom.org or by calling customer service at 904-598-1005. The certification services team is ready to assist you in any way possible.
Structured water (H3O2) can be considered a fourth state of water between liquid and solid. It has the hexagonal structure of ice; however, missing a critical bond, it behaves more like a gel than a solid, but retains some of its crystalline structure.
In the past five years of my clinical practice, I have seen an astonishing upsurge in the chronic use of proton-pump inhibitor (PPI) medications for the gastrointestinal issue diagnosed by allopathic medicine as GERD. It is not uncommon to encounter patients taking these prescriptions for five-plus years.
Working with chronically ill patients entails acknowledging the reality that not all patients will survive their diagnosis. Chinese medicine and acupuncture play a crucial role in palliative and end-of-life care, addressing medication and disease side effects, alleviating pain associated with death, reducing anxiety and stress, and helping patients find peace during the dying process.
