Dr. Karen Lau, DMA, Dipl.Ac., L.Ac., is board certified by the National Certification Board for Acupuncture and Herbal Medicine (NCBAHM), the national certifying organization responsible for assessing and validating professional competence in the practice of acupuncture and herbal medicine.
Why board certification matters
Board certification signifies advanced training and a sustained commitment to professional development within a given discipline. It assures that practitioners have met rigorous national standards of knowledge, skill, and clinical competence, exceeding minimum state licensure requirements and promoting higher quality and consistency of care.
What NCBAHM certification means
The NCBAHM offers several designations:
- Diplomate of Acupuncture (Dipl.Ac.)
- Diplomate of Chinese Herbology (Dipl.C.H.)
- Diplomate of Oriental Medicine (Dipl.O.M.), which combines both tracks
“Maryland is home to over one thousand practicing acupuncturists,” Dr. Lau explains. “However, a review of the NCBAHM database indicates that only approximately 300 hold national board certification, a distinction that warrants careful consideration.”
Certification versus safety
“Acupuncture is generally regarded as a low-risk therapeutic intervention,” Dr. Lau notes. “One of its strengths lies in its limited contraindications and relatively minimal risk profile. Nonetheless, patients should seek practitioners who have demonstrated the highest standards of education and clinical training. The Dipl.Ac. credential indicates attainment of advanced national certification beyond state licensure alone.”
She further explains that academic credentials within the field are also evolving. “Doctoral degrees in acupuncture or Oriental medicine are now available,” Dr. Lau states. “However, possession of a doctorate does not necessarily indicate completion of national board examinations.” Accordingly, she recommends prioritizing NCBAHM certification. “While patients may be unfamiliar with the specifics of a practitioner's educational background or doctoral specialization, selection of an NCBAHM-certified acupuncturist ensures that the practitioner meets the highest nationally standardized measures of competence.”
Questions about credentials or treatment? Contact our team to learn more or schedule a visit.
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