Oriental Medicine Practitioners

Oriental medicine practitioners who specialize in acupuncture or Chinese herbology advance in their careers by establishing their own practices, building large bases of patients, or starting their own clinics. Because they receive referrals from physicians and other alternative health care practitioners, relationships with other members of the medical community are very helpful in building a patient base.

Experienced acupuncturists may teach at a school of Oriental medicine. After much experience, an individual may achieve a supervisory or directorship position in a school. The growing acceptance of acupuncture and Oriental medicine by the American public and the medical community will lead to an increasing need for research in university medical hospitals or government agencies.

For OM practitioners who specialize in Oriental bodywork, advancement can come in the form of promotions within the facility where they work. They can take more advanced courses and pursue a higher degree in Oriental bodywork. They can also become teachers or start their own practice.