27/06/2025
A widespread myth suggests that Traditional Chinese Medicine (TCM), including acupuncture, is unregulated and unsafe. In Australia, this is far from the truth.
TCM practitioners, including acupuncturists, are regulated by the Chinese Medicine Board of Australia (CMBA) under the Australian Health Practitioner Regulation Agency (AHPRA). This ensures that practitioners meet specific educational and professional standards, safeguarding public health.
Globally, it's interesting to note that acupuncture is integrated into hospital systems worldwide:
United States: All of the top ten U.S. hospitals now offer acupuncture services, reflecting its acceptance in mainstream medical care.
Norway: Acupuncture remains the most widely used and requested complementary and alternative medicine (CAM) treatment in Norway, both in and out of hospitals.
Germany and Austria: Acupuncture is officially acknowledged as a scientific treatment, with many hospitals offering it as part of their services.
China: Acupuncture is an integral part of China's healthcare system, with hospitals combining traditional practices with Western medicine to provide comprehensive care.
South Korea: Acupuncture is widely accessible in hospitals and clinics throughout the country, used to treat various conditions.
It's important to consult qualified and registered TCM practitioners and to inform all your healthcare providers about any treatments you're receiving. This collaborative approach ensures safe and coordinated care.
And until you can get acupuncture in hospitals here in Australia, you'll find us working at Red Tent Health Centre, in Bondi Junction and Erskineville.
We each have over 20 years of experience under our belt.
Here's me at the China-Japan Friendship Hospital in Beijing circa 2004.
See you soon at our Red Tent :)
Rebecca & Naomi
Practitioners of Traditional Chinese Medicine
AHPRA registered acupuncturists & Chinese herbalists
B. Health Science (TCM) University of Technology Sydney
Senior Member of OBAA (Obstetrical Acupuncture Association)