CSOMA (The California State Oriental Medical Association) hosted a Town Hall Event in March to discuss their most recent CA Legislative updated.

February 2021 Press Release:  Assemblywoman Sharon Quirk-Silva (D – Fullerton) and the California State Oriental Medicine Association (CSOMA) introduced the first bill in California to ensure a nationally recognized standard for the delivery of acupuncture medicine throughout the state. The bill would allow a prospective acupuncturist to take the national examination to qualify for national certification and California state licensure enabling acupuncturists to take one exam, save money and secure enhanced portability of their credentials across the nation for greater employment opportunities. As a teacher for thirty years and a member of the Assembly Committee on Education, the Assemblywoman provides a unique and experienced perspective to the issue. Additionally, with one of the largest Acupuncture schools, the most students and practicing Acupuncturists in her district, this bill will directly support students and small businesses in her district. “Acupuncture is an essential health benefit in California,” said Assemblywoman Quirk-Silva. “New graduates ready to expand access to this important medicine should have the ability to take one nationally recognized exam to open a wide range of jobs to them while not going into additional student debt to pay fees for multiple exams.” AB 918 requires that CA acupuncture license applicants pass the national certification examinations administered by the NCCAOM and used for acupuncture licensure and certification in 47 states plus the District of Columbia (representing 98% of all states that regulate acupuncture). “National certification is vital to continue to support our profession and public safety,” said CSOMA President Dr. Nell Smircina. “National certification will continue to elevate acupuncture in California’s health care delivery system creating additional access for the thousands of individuals requesting this essential medicine.

Visit the CSOMA website for details on how you can support this bill!

About CSOMA:  

CSOMA is a professional association of licensed acupuncturists and supporters of acupuncture, dedicated to the preservation, advancement and integration of the art, science, and practice of all branches of acupuncture medicine into the modern healthcare model, in a caring and ethical manner, thereby enhancing the health and well-being of the general public. For more information about CSOMA, please contact Ra Adcock, Executive Director, at ra@csomaonline.org or visit us at csomaonline.org