The AAAOM Meets With Physical Therapist Association
Acupuncture Today Staff
| DIGITAL EXCLUSIVE
Dry needling is back on the radar for acupuncturists but this time there's a twist—the American Association of Acupuncture and Oriental Medicine (AAAOM) and the American Physical Therapist Association (APTA) came together for a meeting, prompted by Dr. Carlos Chapa, president of the AAAOM and Dr. Jan Dommerholt, a physical therapist.
The two doctors initially met in Quinto, Ecuador during a dry needling seminar. After several conversations they concluded it would be beneficial for acupuncturists and physical therapists to meet, with the purpose of creating a dialogue between the two organizations, and subsequently, the professions.
As a result Dr. Chapa, president of the AAAOM met with APTA's vice president, Matt Hyland, executive vice president, Katy Neas, and Dr. Dommerholt. The group discussed concerns about acupuncture and dry needling - including standards, definitions, defined scope of practice, reimbursement and practice acts. The AAAOM assures that this meeting is the first of more to come, and even indicated that other acupuncture organizations will be meeting with APTA.
Dr. Chapa also urges all acupuncturists to join their state associations, and to consider joining the AAAOM as well. Stay tuned for more information on this subject.
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