Experience of the acupuncture clinic in the university hospital / 全日本鍼灸学会雑誌

ABSTRACT

[Objective]This study was performed to clarify the benefits and challenges of the acupuncture clinic at the university hospital. <BR>[Methodology]In May, 2012 information on acupuncture clinics from the websites of 80 university hospitals in Japan was analyzed. Information on the experience of the acupuncture clinic at Mie University Hospital was provided by the department of anesthesia at that hospital. <BR>[Results]The number of university hospitals which operate acupuncture clinics was 16. Three types of acupuncture clinics were observed, first was an independent center separated from the university hospital, second was a department specific to oriental medicine within the hospital, and third was a certain medical department such as anesthesia or rehabilitation. In the case of Mie University Hospital, establishment of the acupuncture clinic was proposed in 2007 as a part of collaborative works under the partnership agreement between Mie University and Suzuka University of Medical Science. The acupuncture clinic was then established as the outpatient clinic of anesthesia from 2010. The staff of the acupuncture clinic consists of three acupuncturists belonging to Mie University Hospital, and three faculty members from Suzuka University of Medical Science. A total of 2,749 medical treatments were carried out in the past two years. Through case conferences between physicians and acupuncturists, the level of acupuncture care has improved. For example, electronic medical records were shared, and medical safety management was intensified. However, the number of referrals of hospitalized patients to the acupuncture clinic fell sharply in the second year of the establishment. The main reason was thought to be that the patients who required pain management were referred to the palliative care team which had started full-fledged operation during the second year. An effort to promote cooperation between acupuncturists and the palliative care team is now in progress.<BR>[Discussion]Although there are some challenges to be overcome, establishment of the acupuncture clinic at the university hospital may help promote acupuncture based on scientific evidence, and improve the understanding of acupuncture in the entire medical community. Active proposals of treatments by acupuncturists and promotion of mutual understanding and cooperation between acupuncturists, physicians, and other health care professionals are essential for the successful establishment of acupuncture clinics.<BR>[Conclusion]Although there are several challenges to be overcome, establishment of the acupuncture clinic at the university hospital has a great significance for the promotion and development of acupuncture in Japan.