Overview
Introduction to the American Association of Chinese Medicine and Acupuncture (AACMA)
The American Association of Chinese Medicine and Acupuncture (AACMA) is a government-registered, non-profit organization and the largest professional group representing Chinese medicine and acupuncture practitioners. Established in January 2015 through the merger of the California Certified Acupuncturists Association (CCAA) and the United California Practitioners of Chinese Medicine Physicians (UCPCM), AACMA continues to be a leading force in the industry.
AACMA traces its roots back to California’s first government-registered professional group for Chinese medicine and acupuncture, the California Chinese Medicine and Acupuncture Research Association, founded in 1974. Over the past 50 years, the organization has made significant contributions to the legalization and advancement of acupuncture in California, advocating for legislation, protecting the rights of acupuncturists, and ensuring public access to high-quality acupuncture treatments. AACMA is widely recognized for its influence in professional, social, and political circles.
Major Achievements of AACMA and Its Predecessors:
• 1972 – Bae Chi Pien and Kok Yuen Leung, pioneers of Traditional Chinese Medicine (TCM) and acupuncture, conducted a large-scale demonstration in San Francisco at the invitation of the California Medical Association, showcasing acupuncture’s efficacy to over 500 Western medical practitioners. This had a profound impact on the legalization of acupuncture in California.
• 1974 – During a critical period when acupuncture was banned, leading Chinese acupuncturists followed the advice of human rights lawyer Aubrey Grossman and established their own professional groups to fight for legalization. The California Chinese Medicine and Acupuncture Research Association, the first government-registered professional group for TCM and acupuncture, was founded in March 1974.
• 1975 – After years of advocacy, Governor Jerry Brown signed SB86, officially legalizing acupuncture in California, with AACMA’s predecessor playing a pivotal role in this achievement.
• 1979 – The AB1391 bill was passed, granting acupuncturists primary healthcare provider status, allowing them to diagnose and treat patients independently.
• 1980 – The AB3040 bill defined acupuncture education, examination, and scope of practice, ensuring that only licensed professionals (except physicians, dentists, and podiatrists) could practice acupuncture.
• 1988 – With the passage of SB840, acupuncture services and practitioners were included in California’s workers’ compensation insurance, marking an important milestone in integrating acupuncture into mainstream healthcare.
• 1997 – SB212 made acupuncture services permanently covered by California Workers’ Compensation Insurance.
• 1998 – AB1980 elevated the California Acupuncture Committee to an independent California Acupuncture Board.
• 2002 – AB1943 increased the entry-level acupuncture training requirement to 3,000 hours, the highest standard in the U.S.
• 2005 – Initiated the San Francisco International Symposium on Traditional Chinese Medicine, which has become a prestigious international academic exchange platform.
• 2011-2013 – Successfully collaborated with the California Acupuncture Coalition (CAC) to defeat a Traumatology Bill that threatened the industry’s interests.
• 2012 – Prevented the California Acupuncture Board from abolishing the Chinese-language version of the California Acupuncture Licensure Examination.
• 2015 – Merged with other organizations to form AACMA, becoming the largest professional TCM and acupuncture group in California.
• 2016 – AB833 restored Medi-Cal acupuncture coverage after a seven-year hiatus.
• 2022 – Supported the federal CMS decision to include Medicare coverage for acupuncture treatment of chronic low back pain, effective January 2023.
• 2023 – Successfully lobbied the California government to increase Medi-Cal reimbursement for acupuncture from $17.40 to $60 per session.
• 2023 – Produced "Acupuncture Fever – The Road to Legalization in California", the first English language documentary on the legalization of acupuncture in California.
• 2024 – Mobilized efforts to prevent the removal of Medi-Cal acupuncture coverage from the state budget.
• 2024-2025 – Revived the California Acupuncture Coalition (CAC) and became a leading contributor in hiring lobbyists to oppose unlicensed dry needling and protect industry rights.
AACMA’s Goals and Initiatives:
1. Unite TCM and acupuncture practitioners of all ethnic backgrounds across California and the U.S. to promote industry growth and advocacy.
2. Defend and expand TCM’s scope of practice, insurance coverage, and professional status in both economic and political spheres.
3. Enhance TCM education standards, aiming for a doctoral-level entry requirement and continuous professional development.
4. Advance scientific research in TCM, fostering integration into mainstream U.S. medicine and society.
5. Support career development for members, offering resources, training, and networking opportunities.
Member Benefits:
AACMA provides over eight credit-bearing lectures annually, featuring renowned Chinese and American acupuncture experts. Members also gain access to:
• Exclusive discounts on classes ($20-$60 for members vs. $80-$180 for non-members).
• Specialty committees covering various medical fields.
• Case study discussions, symposiums, and mentorship programs.
• Post-licensure training for new acupuncturists, including practical business and insurance guidance.
• Social activities, including district events, choir, dance groups, and group travel.
AACMA is a united, dynamic, and influential professional organization, run by dedicated volunteers. The Board of Directors actively encourages member participation, fostering a community where practitioners can contribute their expertise and dedication to the industry’s development.
Join AACMA Today!
History has shown that strength comes from unity. AACMA and its predecessors have been at the forefront of advocating for the rights and interests of TCM practitioners. We warmly welcome professionals and students to become part of this influential organization.
• Student Membership: $50/year
• Professional Membership: $200/year
• International Membership: $140/year
Apply and register online: www.aacmaonline.com
Email: aacmaus@gmail.com
Phone: 1-415-981-8384