In this post, we are sharing the discussion from the recent American Acupuncture Council Live Event by Dr. Sam Collins with his guest, Dr. David Miller. They discussed the core components of health for children of all ages. More specifically, they talked about the key role of holistic approach in addressing health issues in children.
This live event also provides useful insights for acupuncture practitioners – on how they can incorporate Chinese medicine to western medical practice.
Here’s the gist of that discussion:
The importance of communication. Not all patients who come to clinics are willing to undergo treatment most especially if they are not familiar (if not fully aware) of the process and their benefits. However, with good communication skills, a practitioner can build reputation and patients begin to trust. Right communication is key to develop a more personal relation with the patient, which makes them more open to new treatment methods.
On why there is a need to be familiar with state laws. Every state has its rules and regulations that are unique to them and this is true when it comes to acupuncture and the Chinese medicine in general. There are states that allow the integration of Chinese medicine into the western medical practice but there are also states that impose steep processes and regulations concerning this treatment approach. Knowing the local laws, rules and regulations in your state is important so that the chances of your practice being hampered because of the conflict with the law become minimal.
The benefits of integrated and holistic approach in treating children. When making an assessment on children’s health, the approach should be holistic. They may complain about back pain, but you should also check the possible underlying issues. For instance, there might also a problem with digestive functions, respiratory issues (e.g. asthma), sleep issue, among others.
The importance of educating doctors about the Chinese medicine. The discussion also gave highlight on how important it is to educate doctors if you want to integrate acupuncture to western medicine. It put emphasis on the fact that some doctors has little to no knowledge about acupuncture and that educating them will open a lot of opportunities, including the expansion of Chinese medicine to the western practice. And the plan of action to carry out process? You need to consider a number of things, including: sending a letter, giving them specific types of cases, letter of consent.
Building reputation by establishing presence in the community. Again, the reason why there are still a lot of practitioners who are not willing to incorporate Chinese medicine to the western practice is simply the lack of awareness on its benefits. This is why an acupuncture practitioner should reach out to the community and you can do that by using different techniques such as joining in state associations, volunteering, giving lectures, campaigning through grass roots education.
Here’s the link to the live event video: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=eMF2PXNuXSY
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