Public Health Acupuncturist Job Description [Updated for 2025]

In this era of universal health consciousness, the role of a Public Health Acupuncturist has become increasingly significant.

As our understanding of holistic health practices evolves, so does the demand for skilled practitioners who can provide, develop, and safeguard our public health acupuncture services.

But let’s delve deeper: What’s truly expected from a Public Health Acupuncturist?

Whether you are:

• A job seeker trying to understand the core responsibilities of this role,
• A hiring manager outlining the perfect candidate,
• Or simply captivated by the intricacies of public health acupuncture,

You’re in the right place.

Today, we present a customizable Public Health Acupuncturist job description template, designed for effortless posting on job boards or career sites.

Let’s dive right in.

Public Health Acupuncturist Duties and Responsibilities

Public Health Acupuncturists focus on promoting health, preventing diseases, and managing chronic conditions through the application of acupuncture techniques.

Their role is not limited to providing acupuncture services but also encompasses educating the public about health and wellness.

Here are their key duties and responsibilities:

• Evaluating patients’ health condition, including reviewing medical history, physical examinations and diagnostic tests.
• Planning personalized acupuncture treatment plans for patients based on their diagnosis, needs, and health goals.
• Applying sterile needles to specific body parts to treat various health conditions or to promote general health.
• Monitoring and recording patients’ progress and modifying treatment plans as needed.
• Adhering to professional, ethical, and legal standards in the practice of acupuncture.
• Conducting health education workshops and seminars to raise awareness about the benefits of acupuncture and holistic health in general.
• Working collaboratively with other health professionals to provide comprehensive care to patients.
• Maintaining patient records and ensuring confidentiality of patients’ information.
• Staying updated with the latest research and developments in acupuncture and public health.
• Ensuring the cleanliness, sterilization, and proper maintenance of acupuncture equipment and facilities to comply with health and safety standards.

 

Public Health Acupuncturist Job Description Template

Job Brief

We are seeking a dedicated Public Health Acupuncturist to provide acupuncture treatment and preventive care to our patients.

The ideal candidate is an experienced practitioner with a background in public health, committed to holistic treatment methods.

Responsibilities include diagnosing patients, formulating treatment plans, and providing patient-centered care.

The successful candidate must understand the importance of patient education, preventive care, and health promotion, in addition to providing treatments.

 

Responsibilities

• Diagnose and treat patients using acupuncture techniques
• Develop and implement individual treatment plans
• Educate patients on preventive care and lifestyle changes
• Adhere to safety and infection control protocols
• Maintain accurate patient records
• Stay updated on advancements in acupuncture and public health
• Participate in community outreach and education programs
• Work collaboratively with other healthcare professionals

 

Qualifications

• Licensed Acupuncturist in the state of practice
• Bachelor’s degree in a relevant field preferred
• Experience in a public health setting
• Strong understanding of acupuncture, anatomy, and physiology
• Excellent communication and interpersonal skills
• Commitment to patient-centered care and health promotion
• Able to work collaboratively in a team environment

 

Benefits

• Healthcare benefits including medical, dental, and vision
• Retirement savings plan
• Continuing education and professional development opportunities
• Paid time off
• Flexible work schedule

 

Additional Information

• Job Title: Public Health Acupuncturist
• Work Environment: Health clinic, with potential outreach to community locations
• Reporting Structure: Reports to the Director of Public Health Services
• Salary: Commensurate with experience and qualifications
• Location: [City, State]
• 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, references, and a cover letter outlining your qualifications and experience to [email address or application portal].

 

What Does a Public Health Acupuncturist Do?

Public Health Acupuncturists specialize in acupuncture, an ancient form of Chinese medicine, where they use their skills to promote public health and wellbeing.

They examine patients and diagnose their health issues based on principles of Traditional Chinese Medicine.

They then formulate an acupuncture treatment plan to address the patients’ health issues.

A large part of their job involves inserting fine needles into specific points on the body to stimulate and balance the flow of energy.

They may also use other techniques such as cupping, moxibustion, and herbal prescriptions as part of their treatment plan.

Public Health Acupuncturists often work in community health centers, clinics, hospitals, or private practices.

They may also provide educational workshops or awareness programs about the benefits of acupuncture in maintaining health and preventing disease.

Moreover, they are responsible for maintaining accurate patient records, ensuring cleanliness and safety of treatment rooms and equipment, and adhering to ethical and professional standards.

Public Health Acupuncturists play a key role in offering a complementary approach to conventional medicine, offering patients a holistic treatment option that addresses both physical and emotional health.

 

Public Health Acupuncturist Qualifications and Skills

A proficient Public Health Acupuncturist should have a range of qualifications and skills that are suitable for the job role, such as:

• Extensive knowledge of Traditional Chinese Medicine (TCM) and acupuncture principles, procedures, and techniques to diagnose and treat a wide variety of health issues.
• Strong interpersonal skills to build relationships with patients, helping them feel comfortable and confident in the treatment plan.
• Excellent communication skills to listen to patients’ concerns, explain the treatment process clearly, and answer their questions effectively.
• Problem-solving skills to assess patients’ symptoms and medical history, create suitable treatment plans, and adapt them as necessary based on the patient’s progress.
• High-level of patience and empathy to understand and address the health issues of diverse patient populations.
• Keen attention to detail to accurately record patient information, administer precise acupuncture treatments, and monitor patient progress over time.
• Physical stamina and dexterity to perform acupuncture treatments, often requiring fine, precise movements, and the ability to stand or sit for long periods.
• Knowledge of public health principles and practices, and the ability to promote health education and disease prevention.
• Must be a Licensed Acupuncturist, and additional qualifications or certifications in public health or a related field may be preferred.

 

Public Health Acupuncturist Experience Requirements

To become a Public Health Acupuncturist, a significant amount of training and experience is required.

Individuals should have a minimum of a master’s degree in Acupuncture or Oriental Medicine from an accredited institution.

This education often takes about three to four years to complete and includes both theoretical and practical training.

During their education, students will gain hands-on experience through supervised clinical practice, treating a variety of health conditions using acupuncture.

This experience provides the necessary practical skills and knowledge to excel in public health acupuncture.

For entry-level positions, a candidate may require one to two years of practical experience in a clinic or healthcare setting.

This could be obtained through internships or part-time roles.

Candidates with more than three years of experience are often considered for more advanced roles, where their technical skills, knowledge, and understanding of acupuncture and public health can be fully utilized.

They may also gain experience in related fields such as integrative health, pain management, or wellness coaching.

Those with more than five years of experience and a proven track record of success in the field may be ready for leadership roles.

They might also be responsible for supervising junior practitioners, running a clinic, or even designing public health programs that incorporate acupuncture.

In addition to these experience requirements, all Public Health Acupuncturists must be licensed to practice in their state, which involves passing the National Certification Commission for Acupuncture and Oriental Medicine (NCCAOM) exam.

They may also need to undertake continuous education to keep up with the latest advancements in the field.

 

Public Health Acupuncturist Education and Training Requirements

Public Health Acupuncturists typically require a bachelor’s degree in health science or a related field.

Following this, they must complete a master’s degree or diploma in acupuncture or traditional Chinese medicine from an accredited institution.

These programs usually take three to four years to complete and involve both theoretical study and clinical practice.

Acupuncturists must be licensed to practice in most states.

To obtain a license, they must pass the National Certification Commission for Acupuncture and Oriental Medicine (NCCAOM) examination.

The licensure criteria generally require the individual to be 18 years or older, have a master’s degree in acupuncture or a related field, and successfully pass the NCCAOM examination.

Additional certifications in public health or a related field may be beneficial for a Public Health Acupuncturist.

This could include a Certificate in Public Health, or a Master of Public Health (MPH).

It is also important for Public Health Acupuncturists to continually update their knowledge and skills through professional development courses and workshops.

Some acupuncturists may also choose to pursue a doctoral degree in acupuncture or oriental medicine, particularly if they wish to conduct research or teach at a university level.

 

Public Health Acupuncturist Salary Expectations

A Public Health Acupuncturist can expect to earn an average salary of $75,000 (USD) per year.

However, the actual earnings may vary depending on factors such as experience, certifications, location, and the organization of employment.

 

Public Health Acupuncturist Job Description FAQs

What skills does a Public Health Acupuncturist need?

A Public Health Acupuncturist needs a solid knowledge base in Traditional Chinese Medicine (TCM) and Western Medicine, along with proficiency in acupuncture techniques.

They should also have strong interpersonal skills to build rapport with patients, and excellent observational skills to assess patients’ health conditions.

Furthermore, they must have the ability to handle stress, demonstrate empathy, and maintain patient confidentiality.

 

Do Public Health Acupuncturists need a degree?

Yes, Public Health Acupuncturists generally need a master’s degree in acupuncture or Oriental Medicine from an accredited institution.

They also require state licensure, which involves passing an examination such as the National Certification Commission for Acupuncture and Oriental Medicine (NCCAOM) exam.

 

What should you look for in a Public Health Acupuncturist resume?

Firstly, ensure that the candidate has the required education and licensure.

They should have a master’s degree in acupuncture or Oriental Medicine and a valid state license.

Experience working in a healthcare setting or public health is also a plus.

Look for any additional certifications or specializations, such as in pain management or addiction therapy, which could be beneficial depending on the nature of your practice or organization.

 

What qualities make a good Public Health Acupuncturist?

A good Public Health Acupuncturist is patient-centric, communicative, empathetic, and respectful of patients’ needs and concerns.

They should demonstrate a deep understanding of both TCM and Western Medicine, and be able to effectively integrate these to provide optimal care.

They should also be open-minded and adaptable, as they may need to adjust treatment plans based on patient feedback or progress.

 

Is it challenging to hire a Public Health Acupuncturist?

Hiring a Public Health Acupuncturist can be challenging due to the specialized knowledge and skills required for the role.

The availability of candidates may also depend on the legal status and acceptance of acupuncture in your region.

Offering competitive salaries, ongoing training, and a supportive work environment can attract qualified professionals to your organization.

 

Conclusion

And there you have it.

Today, we’ve uncovered the profound impact of being a Public Health Acupuncturist.

And guess what?

It’s not just about inserting needles.

It’s about weaving a tapestry of health and wellness, one acupuncture point at a time.

With our comprehensive Public Health Acupuncturist job description template and real-world examples, you’re primed to take your next step.

But why settle here?

Dive deeper with our job description generator. It’s your pathway to meticulously crafted job listings or polishing your resume to perfection.

Remember:

Every acupuncture point is part of a greater health framework.

Let’s build that wellness. Together.

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