ABSTRACT
Acupuncture and moxibustion are not fully or well-utilized in the medical system, particularly in the hospitals of Japan. If they were more commonly practiced in hospitals, disorders and disease conditions that are not improved by modern Western medicine might be better treated. In addition, collaboration between acupuncturist and Western medical doctors would promote the research of acupuncture, moxibustion, and related techniques.<br>However, to achieve these aims, improvements in the quality of acupuncture and moxibustion education would be needed. Also, hospitals that are presently using acupuncture and moxibustion for routine treatment would have to demonstrate their usefulness and how this is contributing to patients' health.<br>Having acupuncture and moxibustion therapists (AMT), as a defined occupation in hospitals, was proposed in 1981, although this has not yet been realized. However, we believe that hospital AMTs would be necessary for the progress of acupuncture and moxibustion, as well as for national health care and the medical system in Japan.
ABSTRACT
We continued reviewing published evidence and information regarding the safety of acupuncture. Subjects in 2005 were as follows : <BR>1. Safety during acupuncture stimulation<BR>2. Quality and strength of acupuncture needle<BR>3. Sterilization and storage of equipments<BR>4. Hygienic handling of equipments<BR>5. Relevant notices from the Government<BR>6. Standards of notification regarding hygienic practice and contaminated wastes<BR>We hope that the information here will influence the future school education, clinical practice, manual editing and research activities.