1. Brief history of acupuncture

2. Basic theory

• Philosophy of traditional Chinese medicine, including but not limited to concepts of yin-yang and the five phases.

• Functions of qi, blood, mind, essence and body fluids, as well as their relationship to one another.

• Physiological and pathological manifestations of zang-fu (visceral organs) and their relationship to one another.

• Meridians and collaterals, their distribution and functions.

• Causes and mechanisms of illness.

3. Knowledge of acupuncture points

• Location of the 361 classical points on the 14 meridians and the 48 extraordinary points. Location and anatomical description of the Commonly Used Points selected for Basic Training.

• Alphanumeric codes and names, classifications of points, direction and depth of insertion of needles, actions and indications of the commonly used points listed in the Appendix.

4. Diagnosis

• Methods of diagnosis, history taking, inspection and tongue diagnosis, palpation and pulse taking, auscultation and olfaction.

• Differentiation of syndromes according to the eight principles, the theory of visceral manifestations (zang-fu), the theory of qi and blood, and the theory of meridians and collateral vessels.

5. Treatment (as permitted by national laws and health service regulations)

Principles of treatment

• Practical application of theory and diagnosis to treatment in each individual case.

• Appropriateness of acupuncture treatment for the patient.

• Planning of the acupuncture treatment to be given.

• Appropriate selection of points and methods of needle manipulation.

• Limitations of acupuncture, and need for referral to other health professionals or specialists.

Guidelines on safety in acupuncture

Treatment techniques

• Needling: sterile and safe needling technique, selection of needles, proper insertion, depth, duration, manipulation (various measures of reinforcement, reduction, uniform reinforcement-reduction) and withdrawal, and contraindications of needling.

• Microsystems acupuncture used in the country concerned: theory, location of points and applications.

• Electrical stimulation and laser therapy: theory and applications.

• Moxibustion: direct and indirect methods, appropriate use and contraindications.

• Cupping methods: appropriate use and contraindications.

Treatment of the diseases, illnesses, and conditions for which patients commonly seek acupuncture treatment

Acupuncture treatment of emergencies

Prevention in traditional medicine