Oncology Acupuncturist Job Description [Updated for 2025]

In the evolving field of healthcare, the role of an Oncology Acupuncturist is becoming increasingly crucial.

As our understanding of holistic healing deepens, the demand for highly skilled professionals who can integrate traditional acupuncture techniques with modern oncology treatments continues to grow.

But let’s delve deeper: What’s truly expected from an Oncology Acupuncturist?

Whether you are:

• A job seeker eager to understand the nuances of this unique role,
• A hiring manager looking to define the perfect candidate,
• Or simply fascinated by the intersection of acupuncture and oncology,

You’ve landed at the right spot.

Today, we introduce a customizable Oncology Acupuncturist job description template, designed for straightforward posting on job boards or career sites.

Let’s dive right in.

Oncology Acupuncturist Duties and Responsibilities

Oncology Acupuncturists are specialized professionals who use acupuncture techniques to provide relief from symptoms associated with cancer and its treatment.

They work in conjunction with a patient’s oncology team to improve quality of life and promote overall wellness.

Their daily duties and responsibilities include:

• Conducting patient consultations to understand their medical history and symptoms
• Designing individualized treatment plans based on patient’s conditions and needs
• Applying acupuncture techniques to alleviate symptoms associated with cancer and its treatments, such as pain, nausea, and fatigue
• Monitoring patient progress and adjusting treatment plans as necessary
• Maintaining detailed patient records, including treatments given, reactions, and progress
• Collaborating with the patient’s oncology team to provide holistic care
• Advising patients on lifestyle changes, dietary considerations and exercise programs that could enhance treatment effectiveness
• Staying updated with the latest research in oncology acupuncture to provide the most effective treatment
• Ensuring all health and safety standards are met during all procedures.

 

Oncology Acupuncturist Job Description Template

Job Brief

We are seeking a skilled Oncology Acupuncturist to join our team.

The Oncology Acupuncturist will work closely with patients who are undergoing or have completed treatment for cancer.

They will provide acupuncture treatments to manage symptoms and side effects, improve quality of life and promote overall healing and wellness.

The ideal candidate will have a deep understanding of both Western and Eastern medicine, with a particular focus on oncology, and be committed to providing holistic, patient-centered care.

 

Responsibilities

• Perform thorough patient evaluations to understand their health concerns and goals
• Create individualized treatment plans tailored to each patient’s needs and condition
• Provide acupuncture treatments in a safe, compassionate manner
• Educate patients on the benefits of acupuncture and how it can complement their cancer treatments
• Monitor patients’ progress and adjust treatment plans as necessary
• Stay updated on the latest research and advancements in acupuncture and oncology
• Maintain accurate patient records

 

Qualifications

• Master’s degree in Acupuncture or Oriental Medicine from an accredited institution
• Current license to practice acupuncture in the state
• Specialized training or certification in oncology acupuncture
• Minimum of two years of experience working as an acupuncturist, preferably with cancer patients
• Strong understanding of both Western and Eastern medicine
• Excellent interpersonal and communication skills
• Compassionate and patient-focused approach

 

Benefits

• Healthcare coverage, including dental and vision
• Retirement plan
• Flexible scheduling
• Continuing education support
• Paid time off

 

Additional Information

• Job Title: Oncology Acupuncturist
• Work Environment: Clinic or hospital setting. Some travel may be required for home visits.
• Reporting Structure: Reports to the Clinical Director.
• Salary: Salary is based upon candidate experience and qualifications, as well as market and business considerations.
• Pay Range: $52,000 minimum to $81,000 maximum
• Location: [City, State] (specify the location or indicate if remote)
• Employment Type: Full-time
• Equal Opportunity Statement: We are an equal opportunity employer and value diversity at our company. We do not discriminate on the basis of race, religion, color, national origin, gender, sexual orientation, age, marital status, veteran status, or disability status.
• Application Instructions: Please submit your resume and a cover letter outlining your qualifications and experience to [email address or application portal].

 

What Does an Oncology Acupuncturist Do?

Oncology Acupuncturists are a special type of healthcare professionals who utilize the traditional Chinese medical practice of acupuncture to help cancer patients manage symptoms and side effects associated with their disease and treatment.

They insert very thin needles into specific points on the body to balance the patient’s energy flow, also known as Qi (pronounced chi).

This technique is said to help alleviate pain, fatigue, nausea, and stress, which are common issues for cancer patients.

In addition to performing acupuncture treatments, Oncology Acupuncturists often offer advice on diet, exercise, and other lifestyle factors that can contribute to overall health and wellbeing.

They are also responsible for maintaining patient records, monitoring patient progress, and adjusting treatment plans as necessary.

Oncology Acupuncturists usually collaborate with a patient’s primary care team, which may include doctors, oncologists, and nurses, to provide integrative care.

This means they need to stay informed about the patient’s condition, ongoing treatments, and any changes in their health status.

Their goal is to improve the quality of life for cancer patients and support their body’s natural healing processes, while not interfering with their conventional cancer treatments.

 

Oncology Acupuncturist Qualifications and Skills

An Oncology Acupuncturist should have the skills and qualifications that cater to the specific needs of cancer patients, such as:

• Deep understanding and knowledge of acupuncture points and meridians used in oncology acupuncture
• Strong knowledge of oncology and the side effects of cancer treatments to appropriately customize acupuncture treatments
• Comprehensive understanding of the human anatomy, physiology, and pathology related to oncological conditions
• Good interpersonal skills to connect with patients, build trust, and provide emotional support during their cancer journey
• Excellent communication skills to effectively convey information about the procedures, benefits, and potential risks of acupuncture treatments to patients and their families
• Precision and delicacy in needle placement to minimize discomfort and maximize effectiveness of the treatment
• Patient management skills to monitor the progress and modify treatment plans as necessary
• Professional ethics and integrity to respect patient confidentiality and maintain a high standard of care
• Continual learning abilities to stay updated with the latest research and advancements in oncology acupuncture

 

Oncology Acupuncturist Experience Requirements

To become an Oncology Acupuncturist, a significant amount of theoretical and practical experience is necessary.

Individuals typically start by earning a Master’s degree or Doctorate in Acupuncture or Oriental Medicine from an accredited school.

This provides the essential theoretical knowledge of Traditional Chinese Medicine (TCM) and acupuncture techniques.

Practical experience is typically gained through internships or residencies during their education, where students will have the opportunity to work with patients under the supervision of experienced professionals.

This allows them to gain experience in treating a variety of conditions, including cancer-related symptoms and side effects of cancer treatments.

After graduation, acupuncturists generally need to be licensed by their state’s acupuncture or medical board.

This usually requires passing an exam, such as the one offered by the National Certification Commission for Acupuncture and Oriental Medicine (NCCAOM).

To specialize in oncology, acupuncturists need additional experience and training.

This can be obtained through continuing education courses, post-graduate programs, or specialized internships.

They need to learn about the specific needs of cancer patients, including how to manage pain, nausea, stress, and other side effects of cancer treatment.

Those with more than 5 years of experience in oncology acupuncture may have some leadership experience in their background and may be ready for a managerial position or to open their own practice.

They may also have experience in research or teaching in the field of oncology acupuncture.

 

Oncology Acupuncturist Education and Training Requirements

An Oncology Acupuncturist typically holds a Master’s degree in Acupuncture or Oriental Medicine from an accredited institution.

This extensive education, often taking up to 3-4 years, includes a comprehensive study of traditional Chinese medicine, acupuncture, herbology, and clinical practice.

In addition to this, specific training or education in Oncology is required to understand the unique needs and conditions of cancer patients.

This may be obtained through postgraduate courses, special training programs, or internships.

All states require acupuncturists to be licensed.

The licensing requirements vary by state but generally include the completion of an accredited program and a certain amount of practical training, as well as passing the National Certification Commission for Acupuncture and Oriental Medicine (NCCAOM) exam.

Although not required, some Oncology Acupuncturists may choose to pursue a Doctorate in Acupuncture and Oriental Medicine with a focus on oncology.

Continuing education to stay updated on the latest research and advancements in both acupuncture and cancer treatment is often expected in this field.

Certification in Pain Management or a related area can also be beneficial, as many cancer patients seek acupuncture for pain relief.

 

Oncology Acupuncturist Salary Expectations

An Oncology Acupuncturist can expect to earn an average salary of $75,000 (USD) per year.

However, the actual earnings can vary greatly based on factors such as years of experience, location, and the size and type of the employing institution.

Specialists with a great deal of experience or those working in high-cost areas can potentially earn significantly more.

 

Oncology Acupuncturist Job Description FAQs

What skills does an Oncology Acupuncturist need?

Oncology Acupuncturists should have a strong understanding of oncology, acupuncture techniques, and their intersections.

They should also have excellent interpersonal skills as they will be dealing with patients who have been diagnosed with cancer, which requires sensitivity and empathy.

Furthermore, they should be detail-oriented, have the ability to create treatment plans, and follow-up on their patients’ progress.

 

What qualifications does an Oncology Acupuncturist require?

An Oncology Acupuncturist requires a degree from a recognized institution in acupuncture or a related field.

Some practitioners also have a background in nursing or medicine.

They should also have additional training and certification in oncology acupuncture, which focuses specifically on treating patients with cancer.

Additionally, they must be licensed to practice in their state or region.

 

What should you look for in an Oncology Acupuncturist’s resume?

In addition to the basic qualification and licensure, look for any additional certifications or training in oncology acupuncture.

Experience in a cancer treatment setting can also be a big plus.

Also, consider their experience in dealing with patients and creating patient-centered treatment plans.

Lastly, look for any evidence of empathy and compassionate care, which are crucial in this role.

 

What qualities make a good Oncology Acupuncturist?

A good Oncology Acupuncturist should be compassionate, empathetic and patient as they will be dealing with individuals who are going through a challenging time.

They should also have excellent communication skills to explain treatment plans and progress to patients and their families.

Moreover, they need to be knowledgeable and stay updated on the latest research in the field of oncology and acupuncture.

 

What challenges can Oncology Acupuncturists face?

Oncology Acupuncturists can face a range of challenges.

They may have to deal with emotionally distressed patients and their families, requiring patience and understanding.

They may also need to stay updated with the latest research and techniques in their field, which can be time-consuming.

Finally, working with cancer patients can be emotionally taxing, so Oncology Acupuncturists need to have strong mental resilience.

 

Conclusion

And there you have it.

Today, we’ve unveiled the true essence of being an oncology acupuncturist.

Guess what?

It’s not just about inserting needles.

It’s about fostering healing and hope, one acupuncture point at a time.

Armed with our comprehensive oncology acupuncturist job description template and real-world examples, you’re ready to take the next step.

But why settle for just that?

Dig deeper with our job description generator. It’s your ultimate tool for crafting highly accurate job listings or honing your resume to perfection.

Remember:

Every acupuncture point is part of a larger healing journey.

Let’s embark on that journey. Together.

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