In California, Licensed Acupuncturists (L.Ac.) are required to hold a Masters of Acupuncture and Oriental Medicine – A Professional Master’s Degree (MS).
Currently, the Master’s of O.M. Program is 3000+ hours of training and clinical work - more hours than are required for Lawyers!
California Licensed Acupuncturists (L.Ac.) can be elected as your Primary Care Provider. This Level of responsibility is granted because of extensive education required of an L.Ac. – training that covers both Eastern and Western Medicine.
MDs & DCs sometimes also practice acupuncture, though they generally receive far less training than L.Ac.’s.
Like other professions, Licensed Acupuncturists often specialize in certain areas of practice. It is generally best to see a specialist when seeking health care.
The mission of the California Acupuncture Board is to benefit, educate and protect
the public through regulation of licensure; development of education standards;
provision of consumer information; and enforcement of the Acupuncture Licensure
Act.
