Postgraduate - Area of study Medical acupuncture

Medical acupuncture is a method of encouraging the body to promote natural healing and to improve functioning. Medical acupuncture is the term used to describe the use of various techniques from the ancient art of acupuncture performed by a doctor trained and licensed in Western medicine, but who has also had training in acupuncture as a specialty practice. Such doctors can use either approach or a combination of both as the need arises. Large numbers of general practice patients have chronic complaints, often exacerbated by drug management; medical acupuncture is an alternative method of care that frequently helps the chronically ill patient.

Suitable for general practitioners, this area of study explores the interlocking role of acupuncture with modern medical care and provides the necessary tools to develop non-pharmacological pain management strategies and promote self-appraisal of drug prescribing/referral patterns for patients with pain. Knowledge and skills gained, in addition to the practical guidance provided, equip general practitioners to practise medical acupuncture with confidence in appropriate clinical conditions.