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.
Belinda Anderson, PhD, MA (Ed.), DAc
Dr. Belinda Anderson is associate dean and professor at Pace University in the College of Health Professions, and associate clinical professor at Albert Einstein College of Medicine. An NIH-funded researcher, her recent research has involved clinical trials implementing acupuncture in community-based clinics, educating clinicians in research and evidence-based medicine, and the use of Chinese herbs to treat COVID-19 symptoms. Dr. Anderson is a licensed acupuncturist specializing in women’s health and fertility; and is a board member of the National Certification Commission for Acupuncture and Herbal Medicine.