Chair Letter | The Latest | ASA Sponsors | Ads | State Associations Updates
Chair Letter
Hello everyone,
I hope you are having a wonderful winter holiday season, in whatever way you celebrate.
Let me start by apologizing for not being as present and involved as the ASA deserves at the beginning of my tenure as chair. Right after I officially assumed the role, I was diagnosed with thyroid cancer and was quickly scheduled for surgery. In early October, I had my surgery, and what was originally planned as a short laparoscopic procedure turned into a much longer operation involving a thoracotomy. As of the writing of this newsletter, I am still on medical leave from work and recovering, and have an excellent prognosis going forward. Thankfully, the ASA has contingencies for situations like this, and I am exceedingly grateful that Kelly Hora, my vice chair, has been both willing and capable of taking the reins while I recover. I anticipate taking up the full duties of chair in the early spring of 2026. As a result, this “From the Chair” segment will be much shorter than usual, and I will let the committee chairs speak to the work that has been going on.
Since most of you do not know me, let me give you a little bit of my background. I am a Minnesota-based acupuncturist and earned my OM degree from Northwestern Health Sciences University in 2006. I worked in private practice until 2015, when I went to work at the Penny George Institute for Health and Healing, a branch of the Allina Health system. From 2018 to 2023, I had the honor of being the first lead acupuncturist for the health group, overseeing the 30+ other acupuncturists and representing us to senior management. During that time, I successfully expanded acupuncture services throughout the healthcare system in both inpatient and outpatient settings, led us through the pandemic, and built a successful system to bill Medicare for acupuncture in our clinics. After five years, I stepped down to set the precedent that the position was meant to change hands periodically.
I have served on several nonprofit boards of directors over the course of my career, and most recently, I was a founding board member of the Society for Hospital and Healthcare System–Based Acupuncturists, offering support and guidance to other acupuncturists working within medical systems
I look forward to meeting and working with all of you over the next several years, whether in person at some of our conferences or virtually. I intend to have the ASA focus both inward, to improve the foundations of our organization, as well as continue to grow externally with new programs and partnerships. I recognize all of the achievements and hard work of our previous leaders and volunteers who have grown the ASA into a functional professional association. I promise to do my best to honor their legacy.
Be well,
Paul Magee
Chair, ASA Board of Directors
The Latest – What the ASA Committees are doing right now
Federal Advocacy Committee – Chair, Amy Mager
The ASA Federal Advocacy Committee is pleased to share an update from the ASA and NCCAOM Federal Advocacy Leadership Team.
New Federal Representative
The NCCAOM recently underwent a significant transition, relocating its headquarters to Alexandria, VA, and expanding its internal team to better serve organizational and stakeholder needs. As part of this restructuring, the NCCAOM’s previous lobbying partner concluded its engagement.
We are pleased to introduce Holly Merbaum Strain, Associate Vice President of Capitol Decisions, as the ASA/NCCAOM Medicare Task Force’s new federal representative. Holly is a seasoned government relations professional who will work closely with the federal advocacy team as we advance our efforts to pass HR 1667, the Acupuncture for Our Seniors Act.
About HR 1667
The goal of this bill is to add acupuncturists as providers under Medicare. You can review the full bill here: https://www.congress.gov/119/bills/hr1667/BILLS-119hr1667ih.pdf
Save the Date: Medicare and Federal Advocacy Webinar
The Federal Advocacy Committee is excited to announce an upcoming
ASA/NCCAOM Medicare and Federal Advocacy 2026 Webinar
- Date: January 28, 2026
- Time: 8:00 PM EST / 7:00 PM CST / 5:00 PM PST
- Credit: Attendees will receive 1 NCCAOM PDA point
For more information, or if you have any questions, please reach out to: gro.u1770814180casa@1770814180ycaco1770814180vdA1770814180
To find out about HR 1667, the Acupuncture for Our Seniors Act of 2025 please go to: https://asacu.org/medicare/
Governance Committee – Chair, David Bock
The Governance Committee is charged with making sure that the systems of governance that we have put in place are working to allow this organization to thrive and do the work that needs to be done. We have made many improvements over the past few years. Currently the Governance Committee is monitoring the organization for any new problems that may need to be addressed. Delegates and Chairs are encouraged to alert this committee about any concerns you may have about how things are done. This committee is also available to all member organizations as a source of advice on how you can make your state associations run better.
Insurance Committee – Chair, Mori West
The Insurance Committee remains hard at work on behalf of our profession.
We recently submitted our letter of non-support to the National Uniform Claim Committee, recommending against the creation of a sub-taxonomy code for chiropractic acupuncture.
We also collaborated with the Oregon association to address BCBS’s denial of modality codes. Unfortunately, significant misinformation was provided by carrier representatives, and we worked to ensure accurate clarification was disseminated to affected providers.
Our review of Data iSight reductions shows that the volume of reductions appears lower than in previous years. We also consulted with our colleagues at the ACA, who report similar findings. This decline may be related to multiple ongoing lawsuits involving price-fixing allegations.
Our committee continues to attend the AMA CPT Editorial Panel meetings, the AMA’s bi-monthly Healthcare Professionals Advisory Committee meetings, and we monitor the AMA/CMS RUC meetings to stay on top of emerging policy changes.
We field questions from state associations regarding insurance, reimbursement, and coding. If you have questions, please first reach out to your state association so they can determine whether an issue is isolated or systemic. As always, we are here to support you.
Medicaid Committee – Contact, Joe Pandolfo
You are welcome and encouraged to contact us with questions, requests, or updates about your state’s efforts at gro.u1770814180casa@1770814180diaci1770814180deM1770814180.
Membership/Benefits Committee – Chair, Mary Beth Jones-Prizer
In August of this year, the Membership Benefits Committee (MBC) transitioned leadership as Grace Ouchida ended her successful tenure as MCB Chair to focus on an expanded role within the Conference Committee. MBC committee member, Mary Beth Jones-Prizer assumed the chair role
The committee is currently engaged in a comprehensive review and update of its Charter with the evaluation of membership needs central to this process.
Once completed, the MBC Committee will open positions for new committee members in the first quarter of next year
2025 New Benefits
- American Acupuncture Council (AAC), discount on malpractice insurance
- Golden Needle Acupuncture, Herbal and Medical Supply offer discounts on all supply categories.
We want to thank Grace Ouchida for her dedicated work to provide members with these benefits.
2026 Projects
- The MBC has been exploring the possibility of a centralized job board.
- We are investigating ways to increase student membership.
- We are anticipating adding a number of new benefits to the ASA’s Membership Benefits Package for professional and student members.
ASA Members receive all of the following great benefits! Details available on the Member Benefits Package page.
- 2025 ASA Member Certificate (printable)
- 2025 ASA Member Digital Badge
- Insurance Specialists, Inc. – discounts on all types of insurance (Life, AD&D, Disability Income, Business Overhead Expense, Dental, Cyber Liability, Pet)
- Jane App – 1-month grace period on a new account
- Transformational Herbal Pharmacy – 5% discount
- Golden Needle – 5% discount (some products excluded)
- AAC – discount on malpractice insurance
Nominating Committee: Chair, Alexandra Russell
We are accepting applications for ASA Committee Members
Use this form to apply for a committee position!
We also invite candidates for ASA Board of Directors – Read this to learn about BOD Positions and how to apply
Reach out anytime with questions ~ gro.u1770814180casa@1770814180mocmo1770814180n1770814180
Research Committee – Chair, Lisa Conboy
Members of the research committee collaborated with other ASA leaders on the Evicore project earlier this year. Evicore writes the guidelines for insurance companies and quality research can support expanded insurance coverage for acupuncture. We reviewed acupuncture science for many conditions including musculoskeletal pain. The resulting work provided the start of research review living documents for the ASA website. We also added to our suggested Assessments library to help members, state associations, and acupuncturists get better insurance coverage and further the profession. This will be available on the ASA website soon-more to come. Third we welcomed new members Laura Oker and Julie Armstrong.
Strategic Planning Committee – Chair, Candace Sarges
The Governance and Leadership training is progressing. We have completed Module 1 – Mission and Vision Statements. We are currently working on Module 2 – bylaws. More information coming on the next Module. Even if you think you have a handle on certain topics, there is always more to learn. We strongly encourage everyone to participate. Contact Candace Sarges with questions.
Conference Committee – Chair, LiMing Tseng
The American Society of Acupuncturists’ 2026 Conference: SPRING will be held on April 25 & 26, 2026 in Minneapolis, Minnesota. The theme “Supporting our Practitioners through Research, Integration, Networking, & Growth!
Our ASA 2025 held in April in Arlington, VA was a great success as we celebrated ASA’s 10th Anniversary! We hope to see you in Minnesota for our next Conference.
https://asacu.org/asa-national-conference/
Social Media Committee – Chair, Louis Jin
The Social Media Committee is planning a committee wide meet n greet meeting on December 14 to onboard new committee members and starting to plan out 2026 short and long term goals to help promote ASA via socials.
Student Committee – Chair, Angela Serabian
The Student Committee is looking for new, excited members! We are looking for individuals who want to become leaders in the Acupuncture community. Please email gro.u1770814180casa@1770814180stned1770814180uts1770814180 for more information!
ASA Sponsors
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State Association Updates
California
What a year it’s been for our profession. We began 2025 facing the real possibility of losing key Medi-Cal benefits, but through collective advocacy and a unified voice, we successfully protected them—an incredible reminder of what we can accomplish together.
We also held an in-person conference at Yo San University in Los Angeles instead of Oakland this year. For 2026 we will hold two in person conferences: May 1-2, 2026 at Yo San University, and Sept 24-25, 2026 at Oakland Endowment Center. Details to follow.
Our work with the City of San Francisco was another major milestone. By helping city leaders better understand the scope and value of acupuncture, we supported the creation of criteria for hiring 3–4 acupuncturists into new public health roles—an exciting step forward for visibility and integration.
And our new First Tuesday of the month webinar series has taken off. Each month continues to gain momentum, with our most recent session featuring the 49ers’ acupuncturist, drawing an enthusiastic crowd. To finish off the year’s webinars we are holding our Town Hall, December 16, 2025 at 7pm. Details & registration Hope to see you there!!!
California
Accomplishments in 2025
- Successfully renewed a one-year contract with the lobbying firm TPA through the California Acupuncture Coalition (CAC).
- Hosted the 96th Chinese Medicine Day Celebration on March 16, 2025.
- Held the 20th San Francisco International Symposium on TCM on July 13, 2025.
- Hosted the 50th Anniversary Celebration of Acupuncture Legalization in California on July 13, 2025.
Plans for Q4 2025 and 2026
- Fu’s Subcutaneous Needling (FSN) Workshop – a breakthrough acupuncture technique – scheduled for December 6–7, 2025.
- 2025 Annual Conference on December 14, 2025.
- 97th Chinese Medicine Day Celebration & Seminar on March 15, 2026.
- CAC Advocacy Day at the State Capitol on April 21, 2026.
- 21st San Francisco International Symposium on TCM – August 2026.
- 2026 Annual Conference – December 2026.For details and updates, please visit aacmaonline.com.
Connecticut
Our new Board has been very active on a number of outward-facing efforts. We’ve met with our area schools to develop strategies for student and graduate support and engagement. We’ve consulted with our lobbyist on areas of focus for the upcoming legislative year. We’ve conducted a member survey on priority topics and began planning for Spring and Fall CEU workshops, where students and practitioners from area states will be welcome.
Maine
Maine Acupuncture Society reflects on 2025 as the year of serving the community. We stepped into a couple of new roles starting with partnering with the Chinese American Friendship Association of Maine, (CAFAM), to promote acupuncture in Maine as a vendor at their Lunar New Year celebration in February. MAS President, Jessica Peck-Lindsey, was invited to give a presentation on Acupuncture.
In March, MAS chatted with legislators while providing them with grab-and-go lunch at the Hall of Flags at Maine’s State House in Augusta.
In April, ASA Primary and MAS Treasurer, Cristi DeMarco, and ASA Alternate and MAS President, Jessica Peck-Lindsey, flew to Washington, D.C. to represent Maine at the ASA annual meeting. While there, Cristi and Jessica enjoyed celebrating the ASA’s 10th Anniversary, meeting up with colleagues from around the country, and learning from top experts in the field of acupuncture at the ASA National Convention. Among the speakers was Maine’s Jessica Peck-Lindsey presenting on Trauma-Informed Acupuncture Care in the Clinical Setting. MAS also hosted a fun-filled and informative annual meeting at the Ecology School in Saco, Maine.
MAS invited members to receive important legislative updates from MAS lobbyist, Garrett Mason of Dirigo Public Affairs.
Over the summer, MAS ran tables at several fairs and farmer’s markets, including the Yarmouth Farmer’s Market and Shapleigh Days. MAS also engaged in a social gathering at Thompson’s Point.
This was also a year for renewing our resources with more volunteers and creative ideas. Naomi Skoglund, whom you have met at the ASA Insurance Committee meetings, has taken over as MAS Membership Chair. With her knowledge and vision, MAS has cleaned up the website, added Instagram to our social media platforms as well as taken charge of our long-neglected Facebook page, and put in many hours calling licensed acupuncturists to get their take on how we could better serve them. Naomi has also generated several surveys trying to get to the heart of what motivates acupuncturists to become MAS members. MAS is especially grateful to Naomi for welcoming newish practitioners in Maine with a monthly virtual meet-up over lunch.
As we reflect on 2025, we look forward to the many ways in which we can continue to serve our community by improving on what we did well in 2025. We almost have a Mission and Vision statement ready for our website, (thank you, Advocacy committee for your assistance on this!) And we hope that we can fill a few board positions with new people who can bring a fresh perspective. Most importantly, MAS wants to thank all at the ASA, NCCAOM, and acupuncture supporters across the nation, for volunteering to keep acupuncture a safe treatment option for all!
Michigan
The Michigan Society of Acupuncturists (MiSA) has had a productive and forward-moving season, with significant progress in advocacy, organizational growth, and fundraising.
MiSA has officially hired a new lobbyist to support our work in strengthening our profession. Our previous lobbyist had a conflict of interest as their firm also represented physical therapists in the state. With this new partnership, we are focusing on two key areas: improving and protecting our scope of practice and expanding patient access through insurance reimbursement. As we build momentum with legislators and stakeholders, our goal is to increase clarity, safety, and accessibility for both practitioners and the public.
This fall, MiSA elected three new board members, bringing fresh perspectives and energy to our leadership team. These new members are stepping into roles previously held by our treasurer and secretary, who both completed their maximum number of terms, as well as filling an open Member-at-Large seat. We are deeply grateful for the service of our outgoing leaders and enthusiastic about the expertise and commitment our new board members bring to MiSA’s mission. Fundraising efforts are essential to pay for our new lobbying efforts. We recently hosted a professional training course that raised $2,888 – our most financially successful course in some time. In addition, our patient-centered fundraiser for Acupuncture and Herbal Medicine Day brought in over $8,000, reflecting both public enthusiasm and growing recognition of the value of acupuncture in Michigan.
New Jersey
Our Legislative Committee is continuing the mission of enhancing our definition in the state regulations to be more specific to our practice. This is a project that requires a lot of research as well as careful thought and consideration so as to get the language right rather than rushing through this process. We will keep you updated on our progress, and when we’re ready, we will share with NJAS members what we’ve prepared so that you have an opportunity to share your thoughts with us.
Our Governance Committee is reviewing our bylaws and will make a recommendation for changing the term limits for Officers and Board members after reviewing with our attorney. The goal is to assess whether such a change is worthwhile and more productive for our Board.
Our Student Relations Committee is in the beginning steps of creating a “Welcome to the Profession” packet specifically for new graduates who are NJAS members, though this information will be available to all NJAS members. It’ll include much of the content from NJAS attorney John Murdoch that is already available on our website to NJAS members, but we’re reviewing any gaps that would be useful information to those stepping into the profession.
New York
The Acupuncture Society of New York has had a wonderful year. In February, ASNY members traveled to Albany and met with 11 legislators to promote our profession. We were well received, and guided by our lobbying group at Schenker, Russo and Clark. We also touched base with our individual representatives to advocate for bills that promote access to acupuncture.
Over 200 people attended our Spring Banquet in Chinatown and enjoyed a 10-course dinner and awards presentation. We honored Assembly member David Weprin for his work advocating for the acupuncture profession, and Dan Wunderlich for his work with underserved communities.
We had several wonderful in-person and online continuing education classes, including insurance webinars with Sarit Hirschkorn and an in-person Facial Acupuncture training class with Michelle Gellis. ‘
On June 8, 2025, we held our first Pride Picnic in Brooklyn Bridge Park! Food, fun and swag bags were had by all!
We are happy to announce next year’s Spring Banquet will be held April 18, 2026, location TBD. We would love to have you join us!
Next year, Dr. Henry McCann will return to teach Chinese Herbal Medicine for Pain and Injury on Sunday 1/25 from 9AM to 6PM at Pacific College of Health and Science. Early bird registration is open now, https://asny.org/events/#!event/2026/1/25/chinese-herbal-medicine-for-pain-and-injury
Sarit Hirschkorn will be teaching three 2-CEU webinars on insurance, Why Should I Take Insurance on January 11th, https://asny.org/events/#!event/register/2026/1/11/why-should-i-take-insurance-with-sarit-hirschkorn
Mastering Claims, documentation, medical necessity and navigating insurance challenges on April 12th,
https://asny.org/events/#!event/register/2026/4/12/mastering-claims-documentation-medical-necessity-and-navigating-insurance-challenges and AI 101, Introduction to AI-Powered Clinical Documentation for Acupuncturists, on June 7th.
ASNY is happy to support other state organizations! We currently have affiliate relationships with Pennsylvania, New Jersey and Illinois, where members of those state organizations receive a 10% discount on ASNY CEU classes AND we send those state organizations a referral fee for each member who signs up for one of our classes using that state’s discount code. If your state would be interested in this, please reach out to us!
Ohio
Building Momentum: The OAA Looks Ahead to an Inspiring 2026
The Ohio Acupuncture Association is energized by a newly elected board and the exciting momentum of our growing community. Together, we’re setting a strong foundation for connection, advocacy, and professional excellence across Ohio’s acupuncture landscape.
Save the Date: Balance Method training!
June 5–7, 2026
Friday 9:00 AM – Sunday 5:00 PM
The American Institute of Alternative Medicine
We’re thrilled to welcome Dr. Sonia F. Tan, DAOM, RAc, RTCMP, an official successor of the renowned Dr. Richard Teh-Fu Tan, as she leads a three-day seminar on Balance System Acupuncture.
Earn 21 PDAs while exploring a powerful and effective treatment system that uses distal points for rapid and lasting healing results. This hands-on learning experience offers a rare opportunity to study directly with one of the foremost experts in the Tan lineage.
Members of any state organization qualify for the membership discount, and there is a $50 early bird discount through April 5th. And the first 20 participants to sign up receive the required text FREE!
The first 20 people who register will be supplied the required book as part of registration.
Join us as we continue to grow, learn, and strengthen our profession together. We can’t wait to see you there!
Oregon
🍁 OAA Fall Newsletter Update
A Strong Season of Growth, Connection, and Advocacy
We’re delighted to share several exciting updates from the Oregon Association of Acupuncturists. October marked a major milestone for our organization as we hosted a wonderful and well-attended annual conference, bringing together practitioners, educators, and community leaders from across the state. Thank you to everyone who participated, volunteered, and contributed—you made it our most engaged conference yet.
📈 Membership Growth
We are thrilled to announce that we have increased our membership by 25 new members this season. This growth strengthens our collective voice and expands our capacity to advocate for safe, accessible, and equitable acupuncture care throughout Oregon.
🗳 Board Restructure & New Leadership
In October, we also completed a substantive board restructuring to better reflect the needs of the profession and strengthen our organizational governance.
Highlights include:
- Three new voting board members joining the leadership team
- The addition of one alternate board member
- The selection of our new Board President, Danielle Reghi, who brings fresh energy, strategic insight, and a deep commitment to the advancement of acupuncture in Oregon.
We are excited for this new chapter and grateful to all who step forward to serve our professional community.
⚖️ Expansion of Advocacy Efforts
As the state continues to refine healthcare policy, reimbursement structures, and regulatory frameworks, we have launched several specialized advocacy task forces to ensure acupuncture remains protected, respected, and accessible.
Our newly established task forces include:
- Insurance Practices Task Force
Focused on addressing predatory insurance practices, credentialing delays, reimbursement challenges, and strengthening provider protections. - Scope Expansion Task Force
Monitoring scope-related legislation and advocating for safe, clearly defined roles across health professions. - Lobby Firm + Legal Review Task Force
Charged with vetting new lobby firms—and potentially legal partners—to ensure we are represented with strength and expertise in Salem and beyond. - PT & Medical Board Rulemaking Task Force
Dedicated to participating in the rulemaking processes at the Oregon PT Board and the Oregon Medical Board in response to the recently passed PT scope expansion bill allowing physical therapists to perform dry needling. We are committed to ensuring public safety, proper training standards, and the integrity of our profession throughout this process.
🌱 Looking Ahead
The momentum built this fall reflects the dedication and passion of our entire community. With growing membership, renewed leadership, and highly focused advocacy efforts, the OAA is stepping into 2026 stronger than ever.
Thank you for your continued support and engagement. Together, we will continue elevating our profession and ensuring that acupuncture remains a vital and accessible healthcare option for all Oregonians.
Tennessee
🌿 Save the Date!
The Tennessee Acupuncture Council (TAC) is excited to announce our Annual Meeting & Conference will be held on March 7, 2026, in Chattanooga, TN.
Please mark your calendars and plan to join us for a day of community connection, professional education, and inspiration for the year ahead.
🗳️ Join the TAC Board of Directors
We’re currently seeking applicants for the TAC Board of Directors.
If you’re passionate about advancing acupuncture in Tennessee and want to help shape the future of our profession, we’d love to hear from you.
👉 Apply here: TAC Board Application Form
🌟 Why Join the Tennessee Acupuncture Council?
Becoming a TAC member strengthens both your practice and our profession. Here are just a few reasons to join:
- Advocacy & Practice Protection – TAC actively represents licensed acupuncturists in Tennessee, safeguarding your right to practice and promoting the profession through legislative and regulatory efforts.
- Professional Resources & Connection – Members gain access to educational resources, professional standards updates, and a supportive community of practitioners dedicated to excellence in acupuncture and herbal medicine.
- Exclusive Discounts & Perks – Enjoy members-only savings with Golden Needle and a 20% discount on Earthlite products.
Stay tuned for more conference details in the coming months!
For updates, visit www.TNAcupunctureCouncil.org.
Texas
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Virginia
The major highlights of 2025:
January 2025: The Commerce and Labor Committee unanimously voted in support of bill SB1168 proposed by ASVA. This legislation now moves to the Health Insurance Reform Commission (HIRC) for review. This is a significant milestone for the acupuncture profession in Virginia, and we should celebrate this as a small victory! Legislation referred to the HIRC undergoes a 2-year review process that considers, among other things, the social and financial impact and medical efficacy of absolute insurance coverage for acupuncture. Upon completion of its review, the HIRC will make a recommendation of support or opposition to the enactment of the legislation. Together, we have made significant strides in promoting the importance of our work and ensuring that our contributions are recognized and valued. But this is only one step in a long journey that takes commitment, steadfast action, and teamwork. We will continue to call on our members and the greater acupuncture community to show up. Keep an eye out for our emails and call-to-actions on how you can continue to advocate for change!
April 2025: We were thrilled to meet many ASVA members at the ASA Conference in northern Virginia. We loved meeting you in person. Your questions, feedback, and enthusiasm left an impression on the Board and we have worked all year to meet your needs and requests.
May 2025: With over 500 comments from Virginians and proponents of ASVA from across the country, the Board of Medicine denied Athletic Trainers the right to add Dry Needling to their scope of practice. We expect to see a formal legislative bill from ATs in 2026 to update their scope.
Communications: The monthly newsletter has become a life of its own, making sure you get local and national information to uplift your practice and community.
What’s ahead in 2026?
ASVA’s updated website will launch in January 2026!
The Board of Directors will have a few openings in 2026. If you love Acupuncture and this profession, consider joining the ASVA Board of Directors. All training will be provided. Email moc.l1770814180iamg@1770814180avosu1770814180ca1770814180 with your interest.
Wisconsin
The Wisconsin Society of Acupuncturists (WISCA) experienced a year of modernization, consolidation, and strengthened professional visibility. With a renewed emphasis on organizational development, WISCA implemented major upgrades to its membership infrastructure, expanded its educational offerings, and deepened its collaborations with schools, local communities, and national partners.
A key milestone of the year was the 2025 Annual Meeting, held at the Midwest College of Acupuncture & Herbal Medicine, which brought together practitioners, students, and integrative-medicine leaders for a full day of continuing education, networking, and strategic planning.
WISCA successfully streamlined and enhanced its redesigned website, improving communication, simplifying membership functions, and creating a centralized hub for state legislative updates, CE opportunities, and clinical resources. Membership engagement saw a notable increase, supported by new digital tools, clearer member benefits, and proactive outreach from the membership committee—which also launched a new statewide membership campaign to reconnect lapsed members and welcome new practitioners into the organization.
WISCA expanded its educational mission through a series of student-focused seminars, including Acupuncture Career Paths & Specialties and Insurance 101 for New Practitioners. These programs offered practical guidance on clinical development, business fundamentals, professional readiness, and reimbursement best practices—helping future acupuncturists transition more confidently into the profession.
In parallel, WISCA advanced its advocacy and public-education efforts, strengthening relationships with healthcare organizations, insurers, and employers. The insurance committee continued active work on VA authorization, insurance parity, and reimbursement fairness, including the development of detailed benchmarking reports for local employer groups. Across the state, WISCA members also participated in community wellness events to highlight acupuncture’s role in pain management, stress reduction, and preventive care.
As with many organizations post-COVID, WISCA has experienced a decline in membership, particularly during the transition to the new website. Rebuilding and maintaining strong membership participation is essential for the visibility and long-term growth of our profession.
If you practice in Wisconsin, we encourage you to join or renew your membership at:
👉 www.acupuncturewisconsin.org/get-involved/join/
Your participation is vital to ensuring a strong and sustainable future for acupuncture in our state.