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.
Kathleen Leavy, RN, AP
Kathleen Leavy holds a Masters Degree in Oriental Medicine and has been in practice for 18 years. She has taught Oriental Medicine for 17 years. She is a co-founder of Dragon Rises College of Oriental Medicine with her teacher Dr. Leon Hammer. She teaches at Dragon Rises and supervises in the Student Clinic. Kathleen has worked for the last three years with a computer software developer testing and creating "Acupuncture Practice Management System" to solve her GMP compliance requirements. You can contact her at Kathleen.leavy@gmail.com. Visit kathleenleavy.com.