Advocacy
CSOMA is aware of recent media coverage reporting that Pittsburgh Steelers linebacker T.J. Watt experienced a collapsed lung (pneumothorax) following a dry needling procedure. While pneumothorax is a rare complication of needle-based therapies, CSOMA has received an alarming and growing number of reports from the athletic community involving injuries associated with dry needling performed by providers who are not licensed acupuncturists.
Based on reports and testimonials submitted to CSOMA, these injuries have resulted in significant consequences for athletes, including:
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Lost playing time for Division I and professional athletes
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Negative impacts on draft status and recruitment opportunities
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Premature or permanent loss of athletic careers
We have learned that the procedures in these cases were performed by unlicensed practitioners using the term “dry needling” to describe what is, in practice, acupuncture performed without the education, clinical training, or licensure required of acupuncturists.
In addition to pneumothorax, nerve injury is a known risk of needle-based therapies when performed improperly or by individuals without sufficient training. These risks underscore the importance of appropriate education, anatomical knowledge, and regulated clinical experience when inserting needles into the body.
Our intention in responding is not to comment on the specifics of any individual case, but rather to use this moment to help the public better understand an important and often misunderstood issue: the difference between acupuncture and dry needling.
Dry Needling Is Acupuncture—by Law and by Science
Dry needling is not a new or separate modality. It involves the insertion of solid filiform needles into the body for therapeutic effect—the very definition of acupuncture under California law. The needles used, the anatomical targets, and the physiological mechanisms are the same.
In California, the insertion of acupuncture needles for therapeutic purposes is legally defined as the practice of acupuncture and is restricted to licensed acupuncturists and physicians. This framework exists for one primary reason: public safety.
Training Standards Matter
Licensed acupuncturists in California complete more than 3,000 hours of formal education, including approximately 1,000 hours of supervised clinical training. Their education includes detailed instruction in anatomy, physiology, depth and angle of needle insertion, contraindications, risk management, and emergency response.
By contrast, dry needling certifications for other healthcare professionals may involve as little as 20–30 hours of coursework, often without standardized oversight or clinical supervision requirements. While many healthcare professionals are highly skilled within their own scopes of practice, brief training courses do not provide equivalent preparation for performing invasive needle procedures safely across all regions of the body—particularly near vital organs such as the lungs.
Acupuncture needles are classified by the FDA as Class II medical devices, meaning they carry inherent risk and require appropriate training and regulation.
CSOMA’s Ongoing Advocacy for Patient Protection
CSOMA has consistently worked to protect the public by advocating for clear, enforceable standards around acupuncture needle use. Most recently, our lobbyist—on behalf of the California Acupuncture Coalition—submitted formal comments to the Physical Therapy Board of California reaffirming that dry needling falls within the scope of acupuncture and should be held to the same licensure and safety requirements.
Allowing invasive needle procedures to be performed without the rigorous training required of licensed acupuncturists creates confusion for patients, undermines California’s regulatory system, and increases the risk of preventable harm.
Our Position Is Simple
Our position is about patient safety, informed consent, and appropriate standards of care.
CSOMA believes that:
- Dry needling is acupuncture.
- Acupuncture should only be performed by practitioners with comprehensive, regulated training per the California Acupuncture Board’s Laws and Regulations.
- California’s existing licensure standards are essential safeguards for the public.
We encourage patients to ask questions about their provider’s training and licensure before receiving any needle-based treatment. We also urge regulatory bodies to uphold the standards that exist to protect the health and safety of all Californians.
Respectfully,
CSOMA
Media contact: Dr. Robyn Adcock, LAc, Executive Director
12/16/25
Advocacy
Below is a written response to the Physical Therapy Board of California reflecting our position on dry needling. Submitted by our lobbyist, who is funded in partnership with the California Acupuncture Coalition, Townsend Public Affairs, Inc.
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Dear Dr. Brandon and Members of the Board,
My name is Drew Fiske, and I am submitting this written response following my public comments delivered during the June 25–26, 2025 meeting of the Physical Therapy Board of California. I spoke on behalf of the California Acupuncture Coalition during Items 6, 12, and 22, and would like to formally reiterate and expand upon those remarks for the written record.
Item 6 – Review and Approval of March 18–19, 2025, Meeting Minutes
During the discussion of the March meeting minutes, I addressed a claim made by a presenter that California patients do not have access to dry needling unless they leave the state. This is factually incorrect. Dry needling is already provided by licensed acupuncturists in California as part of regulated and comprehensive care. This technique is accessible, legal, and practiced under strict licensure requirements. We respectfully request that the official record reflect this clarification to avoid any future misinterpretation.
Item 12 – Public Comment on Items Not on the Agenda
I raised significant concerns about proposals to permit physical therapists to perform dry needling without being licensed acupuncturists. Dry needling is not a distinct or novel treatment—it is acupuncture by both legal and scientific standards. It involves the same needles, targets the same areas of the body, and produces similar physiological response.
In California, inserting needles for therapeutic effect is defined as the practice of acupuncture and is restricted to licensed acupuncturists and physicians. Acupuncturists are required to complete over 3,000 hours of education, including nearly 1,000 hours of supervised clinical training. In contrast, dry needling certification for PTs may require as little as 20 to 30 hours, with no uniform regulatory oversight.
Acupuncture needles are classified as Class II medical devices by the FDA and carry inherent risk. Using these devices without adequate training jeopardizes patient safety and undermines California’s regulatory framework.
Item 22 – Public Comment on Items Not on the Agenda
In closing, I’d like to emphasize our concern with how dry needling continues to be framed as a separate and independent practice from acupuncture. This framing is misleading. The techniques overlap significantly—both in terms of clinical application and physiological effect—and dry needling clearly falls within the scope of acupuncture as defined by California law.
When individuals are allowed to perform invasive procedures like dry needling without meeting the rigorous training and licensure standards required of acupuncturists, it opens the door to confusion, inconsistent care, and increased risk to patients. The issue here is not just terminology—it’s about protecting the public and preserving the integrity of California’s regulatory system.
We respectfully urge the Board to remain vigilant in ensuring that any practice involving acupuncture needles is held to the same professional and safety standards already in place.
Thank you for the opportunity to participate in the meeting and to submit this written response. We appreciate the Board’s continued commitment to upholding high standards of safety and professionalism in healthcare practice across California.
Sincerely,
Drew Fiske
Townsend Public Affairs, Inc.
Advocacy
CSOMA has submitted a formal letter to Governor Newsom—“Support for Preserving Medi-Cal Acupuncture Benefits in the Final State Budget”—on behalf of our members and in partnership with the California Acupuncture Coalition. You can read the full letter here.
Advocacy
Thanks to the CSOMA community for a big turnout and lots of active participation at the 2/11 Town Hall… one of our best ever!
In case you missed it, here are the highlights:
- CSOMA, in conjunction with the California Acupuncture Coalition, has a new 2025 contract with a lobbyist. We’re planning a Lobby Day in Sacramento for April – stay tuned for exciting ways to participate in spreading the word about the acupuncture profession with state legislators.
- We discussed the ASA Annual Conference: Cultivating our Future Together on April 26-27 in Arlington, VA, with the opportunity on April 28 to provide acupuncture for our public servants on Capitol Hill.
- We provided an overview of CSOMA’s 2025 strategic plan
- Review of changes/updates from the California Acupuncture Board, including new requirement for 4.0 CEU of Ethics training, scams targeting LAcs, postponement of license renewal fees for fire-affected practitioners in the LA area.
Attached is the presentation slideshow PDF: CSOMA Town Hall February 2025
Advocacy
CSOMA sent the following letter in support of HR 6287, “No Fees for EFTs Act.”
Dear Representatives Murphy, Griffith, Miller-Meeks, Kilmer, Bera, and Schrier:
On behalf of the members and students of the California State Oriental Medical Association (CSOMA), I am writing in support of H.R. 6487, the “No Fees for EFTs Act,” which would prohibit health plans and vendors from charging physicians unnecessary fees for electronic fund transfer (EFT) payment transactions. CSOMA agrees with the American Medical Association (AMA) in believing that eliminating such fees is a vital step towards reducing administrative and financial burdens on acupuncturists, ensuring that they can focus more on patient care rather than navigating unnecessary financial complexities.
The necessity for this bipartisan legislation is underscored by the challenges faced by medical practices due to the imposition of EFT fees. Despite the Affordable Care Act’s requirement for health plans to offer standardized electronic payments, some insurers or their vendors impose fees ranging from two percent to five percent of the claim payment. These predatory fees are often levied without explicit agreement from practices, placing an undue financial strain on them. According to the Medical Group Management Association, nearly 60 percent of practices have been forced to acquiesce to these fees, while a significant portion of their revenue is processed through EFTs. For small businesses, in which most acupuncturists work, this additional expense further reduces already thin profit margins, underscoring the urgent need for legislative action to protect physicians from such unwarranted expenses.
The imposition of fees for EFTs and related transactions has become an unnecessary and burdensome financial strain on physicians. These charges add to the operational costs of providing care, diverting resources that could be better used to enhance patient care. The administrative burden associated with managing these fees can also detract from the time and attention physicians dedicate to patient care. By removing these fees, H.R. 6487 will alleviate these unnecessary burdens, contributing to a more streamlined and efficient health care system.
We appreciate your leadership on this issue and look forward to working with you to advance this important legislation.
Sincerely,
Tiffany Tuftee, LAc
President of CSOMA
Advocacy
Join the CSOMA board of directors for the 2024-26 term!
WHO JOINS THE CSOMA BOARD?
- CSOMA board members are healthcare visionaries and fierce patient advocates who are advancing the practice of acupuncture and integrative medicine.
- Most of us work at hospitals, with the VA, in integrative clinical settings or in other leadership positions.
- Many of us are dual-licensed (LAc + MD, ND, PT, RN, CNT, etc).
- All of us are dedicated to improving patient care through CSOMA’s legislative advocacy, education, communication, and support for acupuncture students and professionals.
Meet the CSOMA team at https://csomaonline.org/about/
WHICH BOARD POSITIONS ARE AVAILABLE?
This year, the CSOMA professional membership will elect:
- 2 new Professional Directors (LAc)
- 1 new Associate Director (industry partner, vendor, etc.)
- 1 new Student Director (full or part time student status)
* Any Professional, Associate or Student Member in good standing may apply.
**Elections will go out to the membership if we receive more applications than available seats.
WHAT AM I AGREEING TO BY JOINING THE CSOMA BOARD?
Your 1-2 hour per week volunteer commitment involves:
- 1 weekly zoom call per week (30-60 mins) on a committee in your passion area.
- 6 annual board meetings per year (currently being held via zoom, usually on a Sunday morning). Travel expenses are covered when applicable for conferences or other events.
- Clear, mindful communication skills and a generous spirit of teamwork.
- A positive drive to unify and advance our profession.
HOW DO I APPLY?
Send your application (your resume + letter of interest) to (president@csomaonline.org) before November 1 , 2024. You’ll be contacted by CSOMA by December 1, 2024.
WHAT DOES A CSOMA BOARD MEMBER DO?
Below are a few of our Board Committees; each Committee has an appointed Chair, who organizes monthly meetings to discuss plans on how each member can contribute to achieving specific topics as listed below. If you have an interest in the topics and or committees, please consider volunteering to help make positive changes for our profession.
- Futures Committee: Project for 2024-26 terms. Organize Lobby Day in Sacramento for CA Acupuncturists to meet our legislators and raise awareness re: Acupuncture.
- CEU and Events Committee: Work with local professionals to co-host Continuing Educational Events and mini regional conferences, Outreach to CSOMA members to inform them of discounted CEU and events.
- Public Policy Advisory Committee: Have an interest in Politics? Research, review and weigh in on policy affecting acupuncturists in CA. Topics include: dry needling, education and training programs, scope of practice and safety.
- Publications Advisory Committee: Have an interest in research, writing and development. Help organize the Journal of Acupuncture & Integrative Medicine (JAIM). A semiannual publication peer reviewed journal-containing articles, which emphasize research and clinical practice of the AOM profession.
- Governance Committee: This Committee consists of Professional members who help organize elections and select the initial slate of nominees who will best serve the interests of CSOMA and its members.
ARE THERE OTHER WAYS I CAN PARTICIPATE IN CSOMA?
If you aren’t able to contribute time, please consider becoming a member of CSOMA. Your support helps shape and support the numerous hours of volunteer work our Board contributes to shaping our profession.
Advocacy
Sacramento, CA – June 24, 2024 — Governor Gavin Newsom has retracted the proposed budget cuts to the Medi-Cal acupuncture program for low-income Californians for the 2024-2025 budget year. This decision marks a significant victory for healthcare providers and advocates who have long championed acupuncture as a vital component of comprehensive medical care.
The initial proposal would have eliminated much-needed acupuncture benefits for millions of low-income beneficiaries. The governor faced substantial pushback from the acupuncture community, Medi-Cal beneficiaries, and legislators in both the state Senate and Assembly.
Acupuncture was legalized in California in 1976 and has been an integral part of Medi-Cal healthcare since 1989. Its inclusion in the program reflects the growing acceptance and efficacy of acupuncture in treating various ailments, from chronic pain to mental health disorders. Over the decades, numerous studies have validated the therapeutic benefits of acupuncture, leading to its greater integration into mainstream medical practice.
However, this is not the first time acupuncture benefits have been threatened with cuts in the Medi-Cal program. Acupuncture was removed from Medi-Cal in 2009 but was successfully reinstated in 2016 thanks to persistent advocacy from the acupuncture community, notably spearheaded by the American Association of Chinese Medicine and Acupuncture (AACMA). This effort also garnered crucial support from Assembly members Phil Ting, Rob Bonta, and David Chiu back then.
The preservation of acupuncture benefits in Medi-Cal this time is largely credited to collaborative efforts among the acupuncture community, key legislators, and Medi-Cal beneficiaries.
The six association members of the California Acupuncture Coalition (CAC) have played a vital role in the effort to save Medi-Cal acupuncture services. The leaders of the American Association of Chinese Medicine and Acupuncture (AACMA) have been instrumental in communicating with key legislators, convening stakeholders for budget cuts hearings, and mobilizing the public to voice opposition to the governor’s plan. The leaders of the American Korean Acupuncture Medical Association of California (AKAMAC) and the California State Oriental Medical Association (CSOMA) have been essential in contacting budget committee members, initiating and promoting online petitions against budget cuts. The leaders of the American Society of Chinese Medicine (ASCM), the Japanese Acupuncture Association of California (JAAC), and the California Acupuncture United Association (CAUA) have made significant contributions to conveying our opposition to budget committee members. Additionally, teachers and students from acupuncture schools across California, including the Academy of Chinese Culture & Sciences, the Acupuncture & Integrative Medicine School, Alhambra Medical University, California University-Silicon Valley, Dongguk University Los Angeles, and Five Branch University, joined the effort. Furthermore, medical facilities such as North East Medical Services (NEMS) and Chinese Hospital voiced their opposition on behalf of the beneficiaries they serve.
The unified support of legislators like Senator Scott Weiner, Assemblymember Evan Low, Assemblymember Phil Ting, and Assemblymember Alex Lee has directly impacted the positive outcome of the budget cuts on acupuncture. Additionally, the opposition from Medi-Cal beneficiaries has underscored the importance of preserving acupuncture services.
The California Acupuncture Coalition (CAC) extends gratitude to Governor Newsom for preserving acupuncture services in the Medi-Cal program and thanks everyone for their contributions to this achievement.
Heartfelt gratitude and applause are extended by the California Acupuncture Coalition (CAC) to Senator Scott Wiener, Senator Caroline Menjivar, and the leaders of the California Asian American and Pacific Islander Legislative Caucus (AAPILC), including Assemblymember Evan Low, Assemblymember Phil Ting, and Assemblymember Alex Lee, for their advocacy on behalf of the acupuncture community and response to the needs of low-income beneficiaries.
The California Acupuncture Coalition (CAC) commends the exemplary leadership of AACMA President Dr. Chulong Xue, Vice President Dr. Lin Yang, AKAMAC President Dr. Bon Cho, CSOMA President Tiffany Tufftee, L.Ac, and Executive Director Dr. Ra Adcock. Commendation also extends to Dr. Victoria Ru Tuan and Dr. Daisy Hong Liu from ASCM, JAAC President Dr. Saori Minota and Vice President Nobuko Ide, Dr. Sun Lee from AAAMA, Dr. Jane Li and Dr. Kexin Bao from CAUA, Marilyn Allen, Director from AAC Insurance Group, Jessica Ho from NEMS for their significant effort and support.
Furthermore, the California Acupuncture Coalition (CAC) strongly encourages acupuncture students and practitioners to join acupuncture associations to further promote this essential branch of medicine.
About The California Acupuncture Coalition (CAC):
The California Acupuncture Coalition (CAC) serves as a platform for California acupuncture associations to unite their voices and collaborate on acupuncture legislation. Comprising six acupuncture associations in the state, including the American Korean Acupuncture Medical Association of California (AKAMAC), the American Association of Chinese Medicine and Acupuncture (AACMA), the California State Oriental Medical Association (CSOMA), the American Society of Chinese Medicine (ASCM), the Japanese Acupuncture Association of California (JAAC), and the California Acupuncture United Association (CAUA), this coalition has a history of working together on legislative issues. After a period of dormancy, it now officially resumes its mission to stand united in advancing acupuncture as a vital component of healthcare in California and to work on legislative initiatives within the state.
About the Author:
- Tiffany Tuftee, L.Ac., serves as the President of CSOMA. A steadfast advocate for East Asian Medicine, she is deeply committed to advancing the practice of acupuncture in California. Her initiatives focus on creating job opportunities, enhancing sustainability within the profession, and educating allied healthcare practitioners on the essential role acupuncture plays in modern healthcare. Under her leadership, CSOMA is dedicated to ensuring that acupuncture remains a vital component of the state’s healthcare system, promoting comprehensive and holistic patient care. Contact email: president@csomaonline.org
- Dr. Lin Yang, California Licensed Acupuncturist, instructor, Vice President of AACMA, decade long volunteer of AACMA. Contact email: yangshealingmethod@gmail.com
Advocacy
June 24, 2024: Governor Gavin Newsom has retracted the proposed budget cuts to the Medi-Cal acupuncture program for low-income Californians for the 2024-2025 budget year. This decision marks a significant victory for healthcare providers and advocates who have long championed acupuncture as a vital component of comprehensive medical care. Read the full press release.
June 20: Governor Newsom has not made a final decision on the fate of Medi-Cal acupuncture benefits. Please CONTINUE making your voice heard until a final decision is made. See our June 11th newsletter for instructions.
In May, CSOMA alerted the acupuncture community about the California State “Governor’s Proposed 2024-25 May Revision” cuts acupuncture as Medi-Cal Benefit, starting January 2025.
This cut would stop the existing acupuncture services for millions of much needed Medi-Cal beneficiaries, and negatively impact the acupuncture profession in California.
Several alerts – on May 22, May 27, May 31, and June 11 – were sent with instructions on how to advocate for these benefits.
Thank you, to all who helped advocate for the profession – and who continue to do so!
Stay tuned for updates, and be sure to subscribe to stay in the know on these and other important issues affecting access to acupuncture.
Background
When California implemented the Affordable Care Act in 2014, acupuncture was classified as an “Essential Health Benefit” which thus required private insurance and group policies to offer acupuncture benefits.
Removing acupuncture from state covered benefits in Medi-Cal goes directly against this policy, undermining low income access to acupuncture while otherwise mandating that private insurance holders have access.
This revision to Medi-Cal benefits is scheduled to be signed into law by Governor Newsom as early as mid-June.
CSOMA is working closely with other CA state associations under the unified umbrella of the “California Acupuncture Coalition – CAC” to address this urgent issue.
CSOMA’s Board of Directors, with the CAC, have contacted representatives from the following key committees: the Senate Standing Committee on Budget and Fiscal Review, the Subcommittee 3 on Health and Human Services, and the CA Assembly Committee on Budget.
Advocacy
Subscribe here to receive updates on MediCal, dry needling, insurance, Acupuncture for Our Seniors Act, and more.
Advocacy
We’re tracking the latest acupuncture bills to keep you informed.
Advocacy
Welcome to CSOMA’s District Rep Program!
If you want to strengthen acupuncture access and advocacy in California, this is where the action is!
We are excited to build a community of acupuncturists in the major California districts where legislation decisions are made.
Here’s all you need to do:
- Click on your district on CSOMA’s District Map
- Complete the form
We’ll be in touch with next steps. This is just the beginning – stay tuned for more updates as we pilot our first program.
Advocacy
“California Acupuncture Day” celebration conference held grandly
The American Association of Chinese Medicine and Acupuncture and Evan Low, a state representative representing Silicon Valley, held a celebration meeting at Cupertino Community Hall from 1 p.m. to 4 p.m. on Sunday, October 22 to celebrate the passage of AR48 Resolution by the California State Government. The sponsor of the California Acupuncture Day Resolution is Congressman Rodalan, and the main sponsor is the American Association of Traditional Chinese Medicine. The case confirms July 12 as California Acupuncture Day, which was signed by California Governor Jerry Brown before 1975 to legalize California acupuncture.
In the afternoon of the same day, California Finance Minister Fiona Ma, State Representative Evan Low, Alex Lee, Cupertino Deputy Mayor Sheila Mohan, City Councillor Liang Chao, Palo Alto Mayor Lydia Kou, Saratooga Deputy Mayor Yan Zhao and others attended the conference to congratulate.
Leaders and representatives of the American Chinese Culture and Medical University, the California Five Departments of Traditional Chinese Medicine and Medical University, the International University of Medicine, the University of California Silicon Valley, the American Chinese Medical Association, the American Korean Acupuncture Association AKAMAC, CalATMA, CAOMA, CAUA, CSOMA and other co-organizers came from all parts of
The celebration was co-chaired by Li Ying, vice president of the American Association of Traditional Chinese Medicine, and James Wang, an assistant to Congressman Luo. Representative Rodalen, Representative Li Tianming and Finance Minister Ma Shiyun delivered enthusiastic greetings respectively. They highly praised the achievements of Mr. Brown, the former governor, and spoke highly of the milestone significance of the establishment of “California Acupuncture Day”, which will have a positive and far-reaching impact on the development of acupuncture in California. At the same time, they strongly commended the important contributions made by the California acupuncture industry to promoting public health care. Huang Xiansheng, Honorary President of the American Association of Traditional Chinese Medicine, delivered a speech on behalf of the chairman and co-organizers. He thanked Senator Luo for proposing the establishment of “California Acupuncture Day” to vigorously promote acupuncture; thanked the dignitaries for taking time out of their busy schedules to congratulate them; thanked the co
Subsequently, Congressman Luo presented the resolution to the leader of the California acupuncture community, which was received by the representative of President Huang Xiansheng. Senator Li will give the commendation to the leaders of the co-organizers. Senator Luo, Senator Li and Finance Minister Ma took a group photo with the dignitaries and leaders of the co-organizers who were at the meeting. Several mayors, deputy mayors and councillors also delivered congratulations and congratulatory certificates.
Before the celebration, a lecture on traditional Chinese medicine health was held, and professors from California’s five departments of traditional Chinese medicine and the University of California Silicon Valley gave speeches. After the award ceremony, large-scale acupuncture and medical treatment and Taiji performances were also held on the spot.
Nearly 300 dignitaries, elected officials, leaders and representatives of traditional Chinese medicine organizations, teachers and students of traditional Chinese medicine schools, and the community attended the celebration meeting on that day. The event was unprecedented and spread as a good story for a while, setting off another round of “acupuncture fever” in California.
Contributed by the Secretariat of the American Society of Traditional Chinese Medicine
October 22, 2023 (October 22)
