Washington Laws & Details

Formal Education Requirements:  2 years of academic coursework including anatomy, physiology, microbiology, biochemistry, pathology, hygiene and a survey of western clinical sciences and successful completion of 500 hours of clinical training in acupuncture that is approved by the department.  The rules specify 45 academic credits of western science (or 450 hours) plus CPR and 75 credits of acupuncture sciences (or 750 hours).  The schools must be approved by the department or be accredited by ACAOM.

Undergraduate Requirements:  None.

Other Eligibility Requirements:  Applicants must demonstrate sufficient fluency in reading, speaking and understanding of the English language to enable him or her to be able to communicate with other healthcare providers and patients concerning healthcare problems and treatment.  The NCCAOM exam and clean needle technique course in English may fulfill this requirement as will a TOEFL score of 550.

Written Exam;  The NCCAOM written exam.

Practical Exam:  The NCCAOM PEPLS.

Reciprocity/Endorsement:  Possible if the licensure requirements of the other state are equivalent to, or greater than, those of Washington state.

Medical doctors and osteopaths may practice acupuncture in Washington without any additional specific training.

Chiropractors and podiatrists may not practice acupuncture without additional training.

NOTE:  Look for a physician with formal training in the practice of acupuncture.  Acupuncture and Oriental medicine is an art and a science that takes years to master.  While any licensed physician can stick needles into you, for a positive experience and results, find an acupuncturist with experience treating a similar condition (with acupuncture) to what you have.

Washington State Department of Health
Health Professions Quality Assurance
East Asian Medicine Practitioner Program
Town Center 2
111 Israel Road SE
Tumwater WA 98501 [Physical Address]
(360) 236 - 4700
(360) 236 - 4818 (Fax)

Practice Act:  RCW Chapter 18.06

Washington East Asian Medicine Association (WEAMA)  (formerly WAOMA)
2311 N. 45th Street, Suite #288
Seattle, WA 98103
(206) 329-9094
(360) 993-0423 (Fax)

Find an East Asian Medicine Practitioner in Washington with Acufinder.com - Acupuncture Referrals Click Here.

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