Comprehensive training in traditional differential diagnosis and proper treatment methods requires that a Diplomate of acupuncture (NCCAOM) completes three to four academic years of education at the masters degree level in an acupuncture program accredited by the Accreditation Commission for Acupuncture and Oriental Medicine (ACAOM).  ACAOM is the only accrediting body recognized by the United States Department of Education as the authority for quality education and training in Acupuncture and Oriental Medicine.  In  additional to graduation from an ACAOM accredited prgram, a Diplomate of Acupuncture (NCCAOM) must demonstrate professional competency by passing the certification examintation in Foundations of Oriental Medicine, Acupuncture and Biomedicine.  The NCCAOM Diplomate training and competency verification is in sharp contrast to the acupuncture training of other healthcare professions such as chiropractors or registered nurses or even medical doctors who typically receive 100-300 hours of abbreviated training.  These other healthcare professionals provide acupuncture by treating a more limited number of points.  Certified (and licensed) acupuncturisits are also trained in standard medical history gathering, safety and ethics, and recognitions of when to refer patients to other heath care professionals or consult with other medicial practitioners.

(reprinted from NCCAOM's acupuncture brochure 2009)