Acupuncture Schools – What is the Job Outlook For Acupuncturists?

If you're interested in the healing arts and have often thought about becoming an acupuncturist or specialist doing acupuncture for a living, or checking on the best acupuncture schools, here are some things you may want to know.

If you're not that familiar with acupuncture and just getting around to doing research, acupuncture is used for a number of health issues including pain, weight loss, addictions, infertility, stop smoking issues, face lifts, internal medicine, chronic disease, rehabilitation and prevention and even veterinary. Acupuncture is based on Oriental medical theory (Chinese acupuncture) and among other things requires the use of needles. As an acupuncturist you'd make a diagnosis based on an interview with the patient. You'd use this information to decide on what points to treat. Treating these points is supposed to increase the flow of energy, which is called Qi, (pronounced chee), throughout the body.

First of all the job outlook for acupuncturists has increased twofold over the past few years. More and more acupuncture is being considered as successful and many doctors are recommending acupuncture to their patients. This, of course, is a good sign and as time goes by there will be even more acceptance. Getting in on this ground level has to be good.

Another good sign is that insurance companies have been gradually adding acupuncture to their insurance plans. So it's a good time to think about acupuncture for a career. Generally licensed acupuncturists can operate their own clinics or practices. But some states do still require that an acupuncturist work under a doctor, usually an MD.

There about 41 states that recognize acupuncture and oriental medicine at this writing, including California, Oregon, New York, Massachusetts and Florida. Eight other states have introduced legislation and are waiting.

If you're wondering what you would make as an acupuncturist, a lot will depend on whether you're working under an MD or working in your own practice. Also on whether you're working for a salary or wage or are self-employed. The range can be broad.

Starting salary can be as little as $ 44,000 and can go up to $ 63,000 with just a year or less experience, depending on the state. If you have many years experience it can be much higher. If you're self-employed your profits could be much higher depending on your overhead.

At this writing there are more than 10,000 licensed acupuncturists in the US. Many colleges and schools offer acupuncture training. Accredited acupuncture schools are located throughout the United Sates.

If you're thinking about acupuncture for a career, it's a good choice. The health care market booms in good times and bad. There will always be a wealth of patients seeking help. Pick a good acupuncture school and get good training. You may want to consider working for someone else first to get your feet wet before you open your own clinic or practice.