As independent health care providers, the majority of acupuncturists work for private practices or are self-employed. Acupuncturist practitioners may share workspace with other health care providers who have different types of training in the field of Chinese medicine.
Licensing and laws for practicing acupuncture vary from state to state. Additionally, due to licensing regulations, acupuncturists usually must become certified through the National Certification Commission for Acupuncture and Oriental Medicine, (NCCAOM).
Certification is a requirement to practice acupuncture in most states, and employers may require NCCAOM certification as a condition for hiring. Certification also indicates to clientele that the acupuncturist practitioner adheres to nationally accepted standards of practice.