A student stands over a patient, needle poised. They have a “perfect” prescription: a textbook combination of points harvested from a lecture slide on chronic lower back pain. But as the needle meets the skin, the student hesitates - the symptom of a quiet habit that has taken hold of our profession. We routinely say we “prescribe” points. It sounds efficient. It echoes the authority of biomedical culture and fits neatly into the insurance field. But vocabulary is never neutral; repeated long enough, it dictates behavior.
Important Notice From NCCAOM to Former Diplomates
The National Certification Commission for Acupuncture and Oriental Medicine (NCCAOM®) feels the need to impart this important information as it may affect former Diplomates' ability to return to full certification with the NCCAOM.
A major policy change for individuals in lapsed status will be implemented on January 1, 2013. Individuals that have been in lapsed status for more than 3 years will automatically terminate effective as of January 1, 2013. After this date all individuals in terminated status must reapply and take a reassessment exam.
In conjunction with the change in the timeline for individuals in lapsed status, Recertification Route 1 will also be eliminated on January 1, 2013. Diplomates in lapsed status should take advantage of this economical route to return to active status, which provides a viable solution to individuals lapsed for multiple years. Full details can be found in the NCCAOM® Recertification Handbook, available on the NCCAOM website by clicking on the "Forms" tab.
Visit the NCCAOM website frequently to keep abreast of changing policies and procedures which may occur. If you have any questions please contact NCCAOM customer service at info@thenccaom.org or call (904) 598-1005.