Acupuncture is a key component of Chinese medicine, which also encompasses herbal medicine, moxibustion, tui na (massage), cupping, qi gong (meditation and breath work, with or without movements), tai chi (body movements combined with breathing and mental focus), guasha (scraping), and dietary therapy.
Chinese medicine, an ancient indigenous practice of China, has evolved over at least 5000 years and is rooted in Daoist philosophy and Chinese medical theory. It is based on centuries of empirical research and observation. This holistic and preventative approach treats diseases by understanding the individual physically, physiologically, emotionally, and spiritually.
According to a 2013 World Health Organization (WHO) report, acupuncture is the fastest-growing complementary and alternative medicine (CAM) modality worldwide (WHO 2013. Traditional Medicine Strategy: 2014-2023. Geneva, Switzerland).
In 2013, reports from 129 WHO Member States, including New Zealand, indicated that:
The Acupuncture Evidence Project is a landmark study that comprehensively reviews research on acupuncture for 122 conditions. The findings are as follows:
(McDonald J and Janz S, 2017. [The Acupuncture Evidence Project] (https://www.acupuncture.org.au/resources/publications/the-acupuncture-evidence-project-a-comparative-literature-review-2017/).)
Acupuncture is the best-known and most widely used modality of Chinese medicine in New Zealand, classified as a complementary and alternative therapy (CAM) by the Ministry of Health. It ranks as the third preferred CAM therapy in the country (Ministry of Health. 2008. A Portrait of Health. Key Results of the 2006/07 New Zealand Health Survey. Wellington: Ministry of Health).
The New Zealand Accident Compensation Corporation (ACC) recognizes nearly 1200 qualified acupuncturists (non-medical) as treatment providers. These practitioners are eligible to receive payments from ACC for acupuncture treatments provided to the public following injury or accident.
In New Zealand, the regulation of acupuncture and other Chinese medicine practices falls under the jurisdiction of the Chinese Medicine Council of New Zealand (CMCNZ). The CMCNZ was established as a Responsible Authority (RA) under the Health Practitioners Competence Assurance Act 2003 (HPCA Act) on November 1, 2021. The members of the council were appointed by the Minister of Health in May 2022 and held their inaugural meeting in July 2022. The primary objective of this regulatory framework is to ensure that practitioners are appropriately qualified and adhere to professional standards, thereby safeguarding public safety and well-being. The CMCNZ commenced the registration process for practitioners at the end of July 2023.
Pathways to Registration:
NZ-Qualified Pathway: For those holding specific qualifications from New Zealand institutions, such as a Bachelor of Health Science majoring in Acupuncture from accredited schools.
Trans-Tasman Mutual Recognition Act (TTMRA) Pathway: Allows Australian-registered practitioners to practice in New Zealand, acknowledging the equivalence of standards between the two countries.
Overseas-Qualified Pathway: For practitioners with foreign qualifications, who must undergo an assessment against New Zealand standards, including documentation of their academic and professional history.
Annual Practising Certificate (APC):
Practitioners must hold a current APC to practice legally. The APC ensures that practitioners maintain competence and adhere to professional standards. Fees for the APC and registration vary depending on the pathway and application timing.
Role of CMCNZ:
The CMCNZ is responsible for setting and maintaining professional standards, including registration requirements, competencies, and ethical guidelines. The Council also handles complaints and disciplinary actions to uphold the integrity of the profession.
For more detailed and up-to-date information, you can visit the Chinese Medicine Council of New Zealand. This website provides comprehensive details about the registration process, fees, and professional standards required for practising acupuncture and Chinese medicine in New Zealand.
July 2024