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.
Anne C. Crowley, LAc, DiplAc, MBA
Anne C. Crowley has been practicing acupuncture in Southern Maryland for nine years. She was a Professor of Economics and Management at the College of Southern Maryland for nine years. Prior to teaching, she was an operations and financial analyst and manager in the business world for 10 years. She holds an MBA from the University of Maryland, College Park and a Masters of Acupuncture from TAI-SOPHIA. She offers workshops and consulting on successful practice management and achieving life goals. She can be reached at www.LaPlataAcupuncture.com; anne@laplataacupuncture.com , and on Facebook: LaPlata Acupuncture and Healing Arts Fan Page; Serenity Solutions: Holistic Life Coaching Fan Page.