ACUPUNCTURIST JOB DESCRIPTION

An Acupuncturist license and active NCCAOM certification are non-negotiable entry points to this role - and for good reason. Patients presenting with chronic pain, musculoskeletal conditions, or stress-related complaints depend on a practitioner who can take a complete clinical history, form a diagnosis grounded in East Asian medicine theory, and deliver treatment that integrates with the broader care team's plan. The Acupuncturist is not an adjunct service; in hospital-based and outpatient integrative settings, this practitioner holds a defined seat in multidisciplinary care coordination. HIPAA compliance and electronic health record documentation are daily operational requirements, not occasional tasks.

As the Acupuncturist, you assess, diagnose, and treat patients using acupuncture and related modalities, ensuring that each treatment plan reflects both East Asian medicine principles and the standards of the clinical environment you serve. You work within an interdisciplinary care team, reporting to a supervising clinician or department lead, and carry independent responsibility for documentation, patient consent, and continuity of care across your caseload.

Career Impact: Completing credentialing and maintaining an active NCCAOM certification in a hospital or outpatient integrative setting establishes a clinical track record that distinguishes you from private-practice-only practitioners in a competitive licensure market.

Business Impact: Patients managing chronic pain, anxiety, or recovery from injury receive measurably more coordinated care when an Acupuncturist contributes a structured treatment plan to the interdisciplinary record rather than operating in isolation.

Growth Opportunity: Experience spanning individual treatment, group sessions, and complementary modalities such as moxibustion and electroacupuncture broadens your scope of practice and strengthens eligibility for lead practitioner or program coordinator roles over time.

• Conduct clinical intake by reviewing the patient's medical history, performing a physical assessment, and forming a diagnosis based on acupuncture theory.
• Develop individualized treatment plans that address patients' primary complaints and align with the care team's clinical goals.
• Administer acupuncture and adjunctive modalities, including electroacupuncture, moxibustion, acupressure, and cupping, within the state scope of practice.
• Document each patient encounter in the electronic health record, including diagnosis, treatment provided, outcomes, and billing information.
• Educate patients and their families on treatment rationale, follow-through expectations, and relevant wellness practices.
• Coordinate with interdisciplinary team members through care conferences, referrals, and shared documentation to support integrated patient outcomes.
• Monitor patient progress across sessions, modify treatment approaches as indicated, and escalate clinical concerns to the supervising provider.

• Master's degree in Acupuncture, Oriental Medicine, or a related field, or equivalent graduate-level clinical training.
• 2 or more years of acupuncture practice experience, with demonstrated competency in patient assessment and treatment planning.
• Active NCCAOM certification and current state acupuncture licensure in the state of employment.
• Thorough knowledge of acupuncture theory, anatomy, physiology, and infection control protocols, including universal precautions.
• Proficiency in electronic health record documentation with the ability to complete encounter records accurately and within required timeframes.
• Strong verbal and written communication skills with the ability to work effectively with patients across diverse backgrounds and age groups.
• Ability to carry professional liability insurance and meet institutional credentialing requirements before independent practice.

• Doctorate in Acupuncture or Oriental Medicine from an ACAOM-accredited institution.
• Experience in a hospital-based, pain management, or multidisciplinary integrative medicine environment.
• Familiarity with prior authorization processes and billing workflows within a clinical or health system setting.
• Additional training in adjunctive modalities such as tuina, shiatsu, nutritional counseling, or distal needling protocols.

• Patient documentation completion rate, measured against same-day or next-day charting standards.
• Treatment plan adherence rate, tracking the percentage of patients who complete the recommended course of sessions.
• Patient-reported outcome scores across intake and discharge assessments, reflecting symptom change over the treatment period.
• Prior authorization approval rate, indicating accuracy and timeliness of clinical justification submissions.
• Referral volume from interdisciplinary team members, reflecting integration within the broader care team over time.
• Typical tools: Electronic health record platforms (commonly EPIC or similar); patient scheduling and documentation systems.

• Base Salary Range: $60,000 to $85,000 annually, depending on setting and experience.
• Bonus: Performance or productivity-based bonus, where applicable; typically 3 to 8%.
• Equity: Not standard for clinical roles; uncommon in hospital or outpatient settings.
• Health Benefits: Medical, dental, and vision coverage; employer contribution varies by health system.
• PTO: 15 to 22 days annually, plus observed holidays; varies by employer.
• Common Perks: Continuing education reimbursement, licensure and credentialing fee support, malpractice insurance contribution.

Figures are estimates based on general US market benchmarks and may be outdated. Adjust based on location, company size, and seniority level.

Employment is contingent upon successful completion of a background check and, where required by the clinical setting, a pre-employment drug screening. All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, color, religion, sex, national origin, age, disability, veteran status, or any other characteristic protected under applicable federal, state, or local law. Reasonable accommodations are available to individuals with disabilities throughout the application and employment process. Candidates must be authorized to work in the United States.

The Acupuncturist owns the delivery of safe MRI-compatible acupuncture treatments for clinical and basic research subjects at the Martinos Center for Biomedical Imaging, administering electro-acupuncture and related devices in compliance with HIPAA, CITI, and regulatory requirements. Reporting to the supervising research acupuncturist and working cooperatively with sponsors and leadership, this position enables the integrity and continuity of neuroimaging research protocols.

Key Responsibilities

• Provide safe acupuncture for research subjects inside and outside the MRI scanner using MR-compatible needles and devices.
• Schedule and treat research subjects enrolled in clinical and basic research studies.
• Administer electro-acupuncture and acupuncture-related devices when necessary.
• Maintain subjects' confidentiality and ensure adherence to HIPAA policies and procedures.
• Complete all forms and project documents specific to the research study and disseminate as needed.
• Meet with the supervising research acupuncturist regularly to review duties and stay current with protocols.
• Work cooperatively with sponsors and leadership to identify and resolve issues and implement suitable alternatives.
• Ensure adherence to all research regulatory, safety, and operating requirements.

Required Qualifications

• Master's degree from an accredited acupuncture college required.
• Current and valid Massachusetts Licensed Acupuncturist license or active full medical license with proof of acupuncture certification and competency required.
• CITI certification and maintained training specific to working in the MRI environment required.
• Must be credentialed through the Department of Anesthesiology and carry professional liability insurance.
• 3+ years of experience as an acupuncturist in a healthcare or rehabilitation setting required.
• Experience with functional neuroimaging preferred.
• Knowledge of acupuncture theory, anatomy, physiology, and universal precautions, including hand hygiene.
• Proficiency in Microsoft Office applications and the ability to learn new software.
• Highly developed communications and interpersonal skills with the ability to work with diverse populations independently and as a team member.

Embedded within Essentia Health's clinical care environment, the Acupuncturist delivers medically necessary acupuncture with and without electrical stimulation, utilizing diagnostic skills and electronic medical record documentation via EPIC. Working closely with the broader care team, this position advances patient health outcomes across individual and group treatment sessions in alignment with Essentia Health's mission and values.

Core Functions

• Provide medically necessary acupuncture with and without electrical stimulation as indicated.
• Utilize clinical history taking and diagnostic skills based on standard techniques.
• Provide quality treatment to improve medical conditions related to patients' concerns.
• Utilize additional techniques within the MN scope of practice as time and resources allow.
• Document history, diagnosis, and treatment in the electronic medical record (EPIC).
• Offer both individual and group sessions.
• Uphold Essentia Health's mission, vision, values, ethical standards, and behavioral and service expectations.

Qualifications & Experience

• Master's degree in acupuncture or oriental medicine required.
• Current licensure to practice acupuncture in the state of MN and current NCCAOM certification required.
• 3 years of acupuncture experience required.
• Successful completion of the Essentia Health credentialing process required before practice.
• Superb attention to detail.
• Good interpersonal and communication skills.

Reporting to the supervising team leadership, the Acupuncturist delivers individualized patient and family-centered care by developing, implementing, and evaluating treatment plans based on age-specific and learning needs within a hospital or medical clinic setting. Partnering with an interdisciplinary team to coordinate care, the Acupuncturist builds collaborative relationships that support quality improvement initiatives and advance the goals of the Acupuncture program.

Primary Duties

• Provide patient care and develop, implement, and evaluate patient plans of care based on individual needs, including age-specific and learning style needs.
• Document patient information and outcome-specific care provided.
• Educate patients and families regarding treatment and follow-through.
• Coordinate with the interdisciplinary team to enhance patient care and facilitate collaborative relationships.
• Participate in quality improvement initiatives, research projects, and other initiatives as needed.
• Promote the goals and vision of Acupuncture as requested.

Skills & Qualifications

• Master's degree or Doctorate in Acupuncture or Acupuncture and Herbal Medicine required.
• Minnesota Acupuncture License and NCCAOM certification required upon hire.
• ACLS/BLS Tier 2 - Advanced Cardiac Life Support required upon hire.
• 2-5 years of acupuncture experience required.
• 0-2 years in a hospital or medical clinic-based environment preferred.

Sitting at the intersection of traditional East Asian medicine and multidisciplinary patient care, the Acupuncturist assesses, plans, implements, and evaluates specialized acupuncture treatments in accordance with VMMC standards and Washington State scope of practice. Operating across patient care teams, division committees, and department projects, this position enables integrated, coordinated care outcomes for patients within a medical center environment.

Duties

• Assess patient health status and plan, implement, monitor, and evaluate specialized acupuncture treatments.
• Provide acupuncture according to VMMC standards of care, policies, procedures, and Washington State scope of practice.
• Integrate acupuncture and other aspects of traditional East Asian medicine (excluding herbal medicine) with other forms of care.
• Document care in the patient's medical record according to VMMC standards and Washington State guidelines.
• Participate as a member of the patient care team, attending team meetings and care coordination activities.
• Participate in multidisciplinary team, division, and department committees and projects as needed.
• Comply with all VMMC policies and procedures, including HIPAA and infection control.

Experience & Qualifications

• Master's or Doctorate in Acupuncture and Oriental Medicine from an ACAOM or Washington-approved school.
• Licensed Acupuncturist (LAC) in Washington State with active NCCAOM certification and ongoing maintenance required.
• At least 4 years of clinical experience required.
• Work experience in a medical center and/or teaching hospital or clinic preferred.
• Knowledge of acupuncture and oriental medicine.
• Ability to counsel and educate patients and families.
• Effective written and verbal communication, organization, critical thinking, and problem-solving skills.
• Computer skills, including the ability to learn and use clinical information and documentation systems.

A key member of the outpatient care environment, the Acupuncturist leads initial consultations, develops individualized treatment plans, and performs acupuncture alongside complementary modalities including moxibustion, electro-acupuncture, and cupping. Collaborating across patient interactions to monitor progress and maintain accurate records, this position shapes a safe and effective treatment experience that supports ongoing patient comfort and clinical outcomes.

Functions

• Carry out initial consultations, including medical history review, physical condition assessment, and treatment planning.
• Conduct one-on-one treatments by inserting needles at specific locations in a safe and healthy environment.
• Incorporate additional modalities such as moxibustion, electro-acupuncture, acupressure, and cupping.
• Explain diagnoses and treatment plans to patients and respond to their questions and concerns.
• Monitor patient progress throughout treatments to promote comfort and safety.
• Maintain accurate records of clients and treatments.

Technical Qualifications

• College diploma or above required.
• Acupuncture license preferred.
• Minimum 2 years of experience in a medical setting.
• Good analytical skills and compassion for patients.
• Excellent customer service and effective interpersonal skills.
• Ability to work a flexible schedule reliably.
• Good English skills required.

Delivering high-quality, patient-centered acupuncture care depends on the Acupuncturist, who assesses client conditions, administers sterile single-use needle treatments, evaluates treatment effects, and counsels patients on wellness matters, including nutrition, exercise, and stress management. Based within a Modern Acupuncture practice in Texas, this position builds patient confidence in acupuncture's full benefits while maintaining HIPAA-compliant treatment records across a high-volume, multi-patient schedule.

Accountabilities

• Assess client condition by reviewing medical histories, questioning, observing, and examining patients.
• Administer acupuncture treatment using sterile, single-use needles at specified locations to address patients' chief complaints.
• Evaluate treatment effects by observing patient progress and modifying approaches when necessary.
• Counsel patients about nutrition, exercise, sleeping habits, stress management, and other wellness matters.
• Document, monitor, and maintain accurate patient treatment records in adherence with HIPAA guidelines.
• Provide confident, accurate, and relatable information to patients regarding the full benefits of acupuncture and present treatment plans.

Position Requirements

• Master's Degree in Acupuncture or Oriental Medicine from an accredited institution required; recent graduates encouraged.
• Current NCCAOM certification and acupuncture license in the state of Texas.
• Willing to learn and implement new techniques, including Modern Acupuncture Distal Needling protocols.
• Exceptional time management with the ability to treat multiple patients per hour.
• Confident and positive disposition with the ability to make patients feel safe and comfortable.
• Professional appearance and smoke-free lifestyle required.
• Ability to work weekends and evenings as required.

As the Acupuncturist, this role performs comprehensive patient assessments, administers acupressure, shiatsu, tuina, electroacupuncture, moxibustion, and related techniques, and manages prior authorizations and electronic health record documentation within an outpatient center setting. The outpatient team relies on this work to ensure individualized, evidence-informed treatment recommendations and to identify medical emergencies requiring immediate allopathic intervention.

Activities

• Meet with patients to obtain information about complaints, symptoms, medical history, diet, lifestyle, and psychological health.
• Assess patients' general physical appearance to make diagnoses and determine treatment plans.
• Perform acupressure, shiatsu, tuina, electroacupuncture, moxibustion, and related techniques using needles, ear balls, seeds, and pellets.
• Suggest treatments involving diet, herbal medicine, and nutritional supplements, including reviewing risks, benefits, and drug interactions.
• Educate patients on meditation, ergonomics, stretching, exercise, nutrition, breathing, and relaxation techniques.
• Document treatment in detail within the electronic health record, evaluate outcomes, and recommend new or altered treatments.
• Request prior authorizations for additional visits and identify medical emergencies requiring immediate allopathic treatment.

Knowledge, Skills & Abilities

• Master's degree from an NCCAOM-accredited acupuncture college and Bachelor's degree from an accredited university.
• NCCAOM board certification and license to practice acupuncture.
• EPIC certification is a plus.
• 2 years of acupuncture practice beyond the master's degree.
• Good interpersonal communication skills.

Acupuncturist delivers safe, individualized acupuncture treatment for adult patients within a pain management setting, performing physical exams, developing treatment plans, and completing EPIC documentation routed to physician sign-off. The work directly supports Pain Physician and Administrative Leadership by ensuring accurate billing, maintained confidentiality, and collaborative care coordination across all phases of patient illness.

Operational Focus

• Provide safe acupuncture treatment for adult patients.
• Take patient history, perform physical exam, diagnose patient condition based on acupuncture theory, and develop treatment plans.
• Explain procedures fully and obtain patient consent after answering all questions.
• Maintain patient confidentiality and sensitivity to all patient issues.
• Complete documentation in EPIC for each patient, including billing information and route to the physician for sign-off.
• Direct any patient concerns, comments, or symptoms arising during sessions to their healthcare provider.
• Collaborate with Pain Physician Leadership and Pain Administrative Leadership.

Required Qualifications

• Current and valid Commonwealth of Massachusetts License for Acupuncturist required.
• Completed training in an accredited acupuncture school required.
• Must carry professional liability insurance and maintain a medical professional license with fulfilled continuing medical education requirements.
• Knowledge of acupuncture theory, anatomy, physiology, and universal precautions, including hand hygiene.
• Proficiency with EPIC required.
• Excellent interpersonal skills with the ability to work with diverse populations.
• Professional and caring approach with patients in all phases of illness.