In the ideal world, a TCM practitioner, like me, would only have to focus on treating the patient, at hand. He would be free to do what he is passionate about and trained for. However, we obviously do not live such an ideal world. To legally practice TCM, in the US, you have to get licensed.

Once licensed, you have to get Malpractice insurance etc… What started off as a pure pursuit of your passion has now turned into a pursuit full of regimented rules. By even having to get a license, you are basically narrowing down the scope of your methods off treatments. What do I mean by this?

Chinese Medicine naturally lends itself to practicing ancient methods that are not recognized in the Western medical system. Herbs or Herbal formulas are a big part of any practice. However, some very important herbs are not legal to dispense in the West. Thus, treating a patient’s ailment becomes more difficult.

There maybe a certain technique in needling that is not recognized as legal; again, in the West. One such example is heating the end of a needle and then inserting it into the Acupuncture point. In my area, the state board says that such a needling technique registers with them as a big “NO-NO”.

As with any practitioner in the West, lawsuits are always a concern. Unfortunately, there are always patients that look for ways to profit by way of lawsuits. Not only does this take much of the true joy out of practicing your craft but it engenders a more “professional” experience with the patient.

The practitioner is more worried about ensuring his documentation is correct than in taking time out to really form that needed relationship with the patient. I ca tell you, from my own experience, that these issues have affected my true passion for TCM.