Oriental Medicine Practitioners

Oriental bodywork therapists work in a variety of settings, and the work environment can vary greatly. In most locations, they work indoors in clean, comfortable surroundings. Solo practitioners may set up their own offices or travel to their clients' homes or places of business. If they have to travel, they frequently charge a travel fee. They have flexible schedules and can set their own hours. Those who are self-employed must provide their own benefits.

Bodywork therapists who work in doctors' offices, hospitals, fitness centers, spas, or on cruise ships usually work more regular hours, depending on their employers' demands. Depending on the employer and their working hours, therapists may receive benefits. Weekend and evening hours may be required to meet the needs of clients.

Oriental medicine practitioners who specialize in acupuncture usually work indoors in clean, quiet, comfortable offices. Since most are in private practice, they define their own surroundings. Private practitioners set their own hours, but many work some evenings or weekends to accommodate their patients' schedules. They usually work without supervision and, as a result, they must have self-discipline. Acupuncturists who own practices must provide their own insurance, vacation, and retirement benefits.

For acupuncturists who work in clinics, hospitals, universities, and research settings, the surroundings vary. They may work in large hospitals or small colleges. However, wherever they work, health care practitioners need clean, quiet offices. In these larger settings, practitioners need to be team players. They may also need to be able to work well under supervision. Those employed by large organizations usually receive salaries and benefits, but have to follow hours set by their employer.