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.
Dorene Bowe-Shulman, MAc, LAc (NCCAOM), MMHS, BS
Dorene Bowe-Shulman is doctoral candidate with PCOM, an acupuncturist with the Healing Garden Cancer Support Center in Harvard, MA, as well as at Be Well and Beyond in Acton, MA.  She is a Professor at the New England School of Acupuncture at MCPHS University teaching clinical core courses and supervising student clinics. She is credentialed as an acupuncturist at Boston Medical Center in Boston, MA, the state of Massachusetts and the NCCAOM.