SHS: Oriental Medicine

Course Descriptions

The following course descriptions are organized by program area into five general categories: Oriental Medicine, Clinical Acupuncture, Materia Medica & Formulation, Basic & Biomedical Sciences, General Professional Studies, Clinical Practice, and electives

OM 311 Fundamental Theory of Oriental Medicine - 3 cr., 45 hrs.

OM 313 Chinese Medical Terminology - 2 cr., 30 hrs.

OM 323 Oriental Medicine Diagnosis - 3 cr., 45 hrs.

OM 435 Oriental Medicine Pattern Differentiation - 3 cr., 45 hrs.

OM 449 Oriental Medicine History & Diagnosis - 1 cr., 15 hrs.

OM 565 Clinical Reasoning - 3 cr., 45 hrs.

OM 569 Case Review & Analysis 1 - 1 cr., 15 hrs.

OM 601 Case Review & Analysis 2 - 1 cr., 15 hrs.

OM 625 Clinical Integration of Acupuncture - 2 cr., 30 hrs.

OM 701 Oriental Medicine Rounds - 2 cr., 30 hrs.

OM 727 Acupuncture Rounds - 2 cr., 30 hrs.

The following course titles and numbers apply to the program in Acupuncture only; to avoid redundancy, separate course descriptions will not be offered for these courses. The content and organization of these courses is similar to that described under the similar title adopted within the Oriental Medicine program, however, activities for which the student has not been trained are not included. In addition, content which supports the delivery of acupuncture as the sole therapeutic intervention will be stressed.

OM 585 Acupuncture Case Review & Analysis 1 - 1 cr., 15 hrs.

OM 619 Acupuncture Case Review & Analysis 2 - 1 cr., 15 hrs.

Fundamental Theory of Oriental Medicine provides a general overview of the theory and practice of Chinese medicine as well as an in-depth examination of the fundamental theory that underlies the practice of Chinese medicine and many related clinical approaches under the broader domain of Oriental medicine. This course will examine all aspects of the practice of Chinese medicine from fundamental philosophy through treatment. This course will examine in detail the concepts of yin and yang, the five phases, vital substances, the zang fu (viscera and bowels), jing luo (channels & networks), the causation of disease, fundamental diagnostic concepts, and elementary treatment principles and methods. Co-requisite(s): Chinese Medical Terminology

Chinese Medical Terminology is designed to help the student understand the linguistic roots of the concepts that support the practice of Oriental medicine. Chinese language is a character-based language, which presents meaning both through sound and through embedded images or radicals. Chinese language texts are the primary source for most of the world’s knowledge of Chinese medicine. Even a slight familiarity with the terminology of Oriental medicine in its original language can contribute substantially to a student's understanding of clinically important concepts. This course presents approximately 250 key concepts in Chinese medicine, explores issues surrounding the translation of Chinese expressions and medical texts, teaches the basic principles of character writing, dictionary use and proper pronunciation of Chinese characters transliterated in pin yin.

Co-requisite(s): Fundamental Theory of Oriental Medicine

The four diagnoses are the basis of clinical practice in Chinese medicine. Before an effective therapeutic approach can be selected the clinician must identify the problem to be treated. Traditional clinical assessment begins with identifying critical signs and symptoms through the process of questioning, touching the pulse and body, examining the appearance of the patient’s body, tongue and spirit, and by being aware of sounds and odors produced by the patient. This course provides a systematic and comprehensive introduction to the methods and findings of the four diagnoses. The course provides special emphasis on providing the foundation needed for developing strong assessment skills in tongue and pulse diagnosis.

Pre-requisite(s): Fundamental Theory of Oriental Medicine, Chinese Medical Terminology

Pattern differentiation or bian zheng is the second critical step in the process of forming a correct diagnosis in the clinical practice of Oriental medicine. The signs and symptoms that have been discovered through the process of the four diagnoses are woven together into a meaningful diagnostic pattern or pattern of disharmony that then guides treatment. This course introduces the diagnostic patterns and associated symptoms that form the basis of clinical practice in Oriental medicine. Pre-requisite(s): Oriental Medicine Diagnosis

The process of integrating theoretical perspectives, clinical findings and the principles of pattern differentiation can be complex. According to classical texts and contemporary practitioners taking an effective patient history is important to securing good clinical outcomes. This course revisits the medical history in Oriental medicine and guides the student in making the connection between effective history taking and effective diagnoses. This class is intended to provide both a review of diagnostic procedure and to support students as they enter the clinical setting. This course is designed to support the clinic observation process. An orientation to the clinical assistantship process is provided at the conclusion of this course. Pre-requisite(s): Oriental Medicine Pattern Differentiation. Co-requisite(s): Clinical Observation, Introduction to Clinical Methods

After completing a diagnosis and organizing the collected signs and symptoms into patterns the next step is the establishment of a treatment principle, which furnishes the basis for treatment itself. "Clinical Reasoning & Treatment Principles" actively engages the student in the process of integrating the steps of clinical diagnostics into treatment planning. Using the extensive knowledge base developed in the first year of the program the student learns clinical reasoning processes that will link accurate diagnosis to effective treatment. Pre-requisite(s): Successful completion of Clinic Entrance Examination. Co-requisite(s): Clinical Assistantship 1

"Case Review & Analysis 1" supports the student in integrating and reviewing their clinical experience in the light of their formal course work. Methods of case analysis and presentation are presented and students are guided in clinical reasoning and case analysis.

Pre-requisite(s): Clinical Reasoning & Treatment Principles; Acupuncture Point Selection, Formulae 1, Physical Diagnosis 1, Clinical Methods, Clinical Assistantship 1

Co-requisite(s): Clinical Assistantship 3

"Case Review & Analysis 2" supports the student in integrating and reviewing their clinical experience in the light of their formal course work. Methods of case analysis and presentation are presented and students are guided in clinical reasoning and case analysis.

Pre-requisite(s): Case Review & Analysis, Acupuncture Therapeutics 1, Formulae 2, Physical Diagnosis 2, Advanced Clinical Methods, Clinical Assistantship 3. Co-requisite(s): Clinical Assistantship 5

Clinical Integration of Acupuncture addresses the clinical application of acupuncture in biomedical settings and biomedical contexts. Acupuncture has been successfully adapted to the needs of patients under going cancer chemotherapy, drug detoxification, oral surgery, and rehabilitation after a CVA, and to a myriad of pain conditions. In addition, acupuncture has become part of the workers compensation and no-fault process in a number of states. Hospitals are establishing acupuncture clinics. This course addresses the intersection of professional acupuncture with established biomedical practice and examines the issues and opportunities provided by these developments and furnishes the information and skills required to negotiate them successfully.

Pre-requisite(s): Successful completion of the pre-internship examination

Co-requisite(s): Medicine 1, Clinical Internship

This course builds on the foundation established by many elements within the curriculum to firmly establish the student’s ability to present, analyze and defend a clinical case and its management from both an Oriental Medicine and biomedical perspective. This course stresses the continued development of strong analytical as well as written and oral presentation skills as the student hones his or her ability in case analysis and presentation.

This course fosters clarity in clinical decision making as well as supporting skills that are critical in patient management and medical integration.

Pre-requisite(s): Successful completion of the pre-internship examination

Co-requisite(s): Medicine 2, Clinical Application of TCM 2, Clinical Internship

This course builds on the foundation established by many elements within the curriculum to firmly establish the student’s ability to present, analyze and defend a clinical case and its management from both an Oriental Medicine and biomedical perspective. This course stresses the continued development of strong analytical as well as written and oral presentation skills as the student hones his or her ability in case analysis and presentation.

This course fosters clarity in clinical decision making as well as supporting skills that are critical in patient management and medical integration.

Pre-requisite(s): Successful completion of the pre-internship examination

Co-requisite(s): Medicine 2, Clinical Internship

Clinical Integration of Oriental Medicine addresses the clinical application of Oriental Medicine in biomedical settings and biomedical contexts. Just as acupuncture has been successfully adapted to the needs of patients in medical settings the use of Chinese herbal medicine and other Oriental medicine practices are emerging in hospital settings. The emergence of clinical trials in support of herbal formulae targeted at specific medical conditions presents new challenges and opportunities for the Oriental medicine provider. This course addresses the intersection of professional Oriental medicine with established biomedical practice and examines the issues and opportunities provided by these developments and furnishes the information and skills required to negotiate them successfully.

Pre-requisite(s): Successful completion of the pre-internship examination

Co-requisite(s): Medicine 3, Clinical Application of TCM 3, Clinical Internship

"Channels & Points 1,2, & 3" is a three semester course sequence which addresses the fundamental theory, location, anatomy and clinical application of the channels and points associated with the clinical practice of acupuncture. The sequence begins by exploring the internal and external pathways of the jing luo or channels and networks and then proceeds to train the student in the correct methods of locating, and utilizing the points that lie along the particular channel. Traditional methods of point location are presented in a manner that supports confidence in location skills and sensitivity. Points are understood through their names, traditional functions, indications and anatomical locations.

Channels & Points 1 presents the architecture of the jing luo or channels and networks. The regular channels, extraordinary vessels, channel divergences, network divergences, superficial networks, grandchild networks, channel sinews and cutaneous regions, network channels are all presented. The student is taught the correct methods of point location through exposure to various acupuncture points. The systematic study of the channel points begins with the study of the name, description, location, functions, indications and treatment of the channel points contained on governing and conception vessels (52 specific locations).

Pre-requisite(s): Fundamental Theory of Oriental Medicine, Chinese Medical Terminology, Anatomy & Physiology 1. Co-requisite(s): Surface Anatomy

Channels and Points 2 addresses the name, description, location, functions, indications and treatment of the channel points contained on the lung, large intestine, stomach, spleen, heart, small Intestine, & urinary bladder (192 specific locations). Pre-requisite(s: Channels & Points 1, Surface Anatomy

Channels and Points 3 addresses the name, description, location, functions, indications and treatment of the channel points contained on the kidney, pericardium, triple warmer, gall bladder, and liver channels (117 specific locations). A special review of the pathways and points associated with the extraordinary vessels is presented. Non-channel points are presented in this class (35 specific locations). Pre-requisite (s: Channels & Points 1 & 2, Surface Anatomy

Tui Na literally means pushing and pulling. Tui Na refers to a wide range of methods of massage and manipulation designed to correct a variety of physical problems. The key to effective tui na is correct training in the various hand movements associated with its performance. Tui Na 1 addresses the development and proper application of hand techniques such as pushing, rolling, kneading, rubbing, scrubbing, grasping, pressing, etc. The classroom experience links theory and practice and hand techniques are linked to their application in specific conditions.

Pre-requisite(s: Channels & Points 1, Surface Anatomy, Anatomy & Physiology 1 & 2. Co-requisite(s): Channels & Points 2

Tui Na 2 explores the use of tui na hand techniques in the treatment of a number of clinical conditions. Protocols for specific conditions are presented and hand technique is strengthened.

Pre-requisite (s: Tui Na 1, Channels & Points 2. Co-requisite(s): Channels & Points 3

Acupuncture Treatment Planning builds on the information and skills acquired in Channels and Points 1, 2 &3 to provide the student with a thorough grounding in point selection theory and the planning and design of an acupuncture treatment. The selection of acupuncture points for therapy can be based on many considerations. Building on the channels, categories, functions and indications already learned, the student learns to use principles of distal and local points, guest/host rules, five phase theory, channel theory, extraordinary vessel theory, etc. in point selection. The use of empirically derived points and theory-linked points such as transport points, mu and shu points is explored. The student will learn to understand the applications of point groupings such as ma dan yang’s twelve stars and the thirteen ghost points. Point location skills are reinforced and clinical application is stressed.

Pre-requisite(s: Successful completion of the clinic entrance examination. Co-requisite(s): Clinical Methods, Clinical Assistantship

Acupuncture Therapeutics is a two-semester sequence that systematically examines the application of acupuncture to a wide range of medical conditions. This course analyzes a variety of symptomatic presentations of a range of medical conditions in terms of the principles of pattern identification and examines the point combinations that are routinely used to treat the presenting condition. The emphasis of the course is on the retention of effective clinical strategies and the analysis of point combinations presented by a variety of texts.

Pre-requisite(s): Acupuncture Treatment Planning. Co-requisite(s): Clinical Assistantship

Acupuncture Therapeutics is a two-semester sequence that systematically examines the application of acupuncture to a wide range of medical conditions. This course analyzes a variety of symptomatic presentations of a range of medical conditions in terms of the principles of pattern identification and examines the point combinations that are routinely used to treat the presenting condition. The emphasis of the course is on the retention of effective clinical strategies and the analysis of point combinations presented by a variety of texts.

Pre-requisite(s): Acupuncture Treatment Planning. Co-requisite(s): Clinical Assistantship

The last 50 years has seen the expansion of acupuncture theory and practice to encompass a variety of bodily terrains using an essentially holographic model. This course trains the student in the use of modern Chinese auricular acupuncture, aspects of Nogier’s auricular system, scalp acupuncture and minor, but useful systems such as hand and wrist acupuncture.

Pre-requisite(s: Acupuncture Point Selection. Co-requisite(s): Clinical Assistantship

Apart from the significant contributions to acupuncture made by classical Chinese acupuncture and the systematic acupuncture of contemporary TCM there are numerous acupuncture systems and approaches that offer powerful clinical tools to the experienced acupuncturist. Applied Acupuncture 1 examines the theory and practice of the light needling methods and highly systematic therapeutic approaches such as those associated with the pioneering work of Yoshio Manaka.

Pre-requisite(s: Successful Completion of the Pre-Internship Examination. Co-requisite(s): Clinical Internship

Apart from the significant contributions to acupuncture made by classical Chinese acupuncture and the systematic acupuncture of contemporary TCM there are numerous acupuncture systems and approaches that offer powerful clinical tools to the experienced acupuncturist. Applied Acupuncture 2 examines acupuncture systems such as ba gua based point selection, Dong's alternate point system, methods of pain control and others depending on faculty and student interest.

Pre-requisite(s: Successful Completion of the Pre-Internship Examination. Co-requisite(s): Clinical Internship

The study of the Chinese materia medica and its clinical application is a complex, demanding and rewarding endeavor. This course is designed to fully acquaint students with the field of Chinese herbal medicine so that they can effectively pursue their studies or understand and respect the need for comprehensive training in this exciting field. The basic principles governing the use of medicinal agents, such as taste and qi, traditional and taxonomic nomenclature, the 18 categories of medicines , the rules governing the development of formula, issues of safety and toxicity, endangered species and other topics are presented.

Co-requisite(s): Fundamental Theory of Chinese Medicine

Materia Medica 1 is the first of a three semester sequence that presents the names, associated plant species, functions, indications, tastes, qualities, combinations, preparation and safety issues associated with over 375 medicinal agents belonging to the Chinese materia medica. Substances are presented systematically with consideration given to important combinations and illustrative formulae. This course presents the first 5 categories of medicinal agents in the materia medica: herbs that release the exterior, herbs that clear heat, downward draining herbs, herbs that drain dampness, and herbs that dispel wind dampness.

Pre-requisite(s): Introduction to Materia Medica, Fundamental Theory of Oriental Medicine

Materia Medica 2 is the first of a three semester sequence that presents the names, associated plant species, functions, indications, tastes, qualities, combinations, preparation and safety issues associated with over 375 medicinal agents belonging to the Chinese materia medica. Substances are presented systematically with consideration given to important combinations and illustrative formulae. This course presents 6 categories of medicinal agents from the materia medica: agents that treat phlegm and cough, substances that transform dampness, herbs that relieve food stagnation, agents that regulate qi, agents that regulate the blood, agents that warm the interior.

Pre-requisite(s): Introduction to Materia Medica, Fundamental Theory of Oriental Medicine

Materia Medica 3 is the last of a three semester sequence that presents the names, associated plant species, functions, indications, tastes, qualities, combinations, preparation and safety issues for over 375 medicinal agents belonging to the Chinese materia medica. Substances are presented systematically with consideration given to important combinations and illustrative formulae. This course presents the last 7 categories of medicinal agents in the materia medica: supplementing agents, astringent agents, spirit calming agents, agents to open the orifices, agents which extinguish wind, agents to expel parasites, and substances for external application.

Pre-requisite(s): Introduction to Materia Medica, Fundamental Theory of Oriental Medicine

Formulae 1, 2 & 3 are a three-semester course sequence that presents the constituents, indications, and modifications for over 150 herbal formulas selected from the 18 categories of formulae. Emphasis is placed on the constituents, indications, modification and delivery forms of traditional formulae. Formulae 1 covers formulae to release the exterior, formulae that clear heat, and formulae that drain downwards.

Pre-requisite(s): Successful completion of the clinic entrance examination. Co-requisite(s): Clinical reasoning and treatment principles.

Formulae 1, 2 & 3 are a three-semester course sequence that presents the constituents, indication, and modifications for over 150 herbal formulas selected from the 18 categories of formulae. Emphasis is placed on the constituents, indications, modification and delivery forms of traditional formulae. Formulae 2 covers formulae that harmonize, that treat dryness, that expel dampness, that warm the interior, that supplement qi, blood, yin and yang.

Pre-requisite(s): Successful completion of the clinic entrance examination. Co-requisite(s): Clinical reasoning and treatment principles

Formulae 1, 2 & 3 are a three-semester course sequence that presents the constituents, indication, and modifications for over 150 herbal formulas selected from the 18 categories of formulae. Emphasis is placed on the constituents, indications, modification and delivery forms of traditional formulae. Formulae covers formulae that regulate qi, that quicken the blood, that stop bleeding, that stabilize and bind, that calm the spirit, that expel wind, that treat phlegm, that eliminate food stagnation & parasites.

Pre-requisite(s): Successful completion of the clinic entrance examination. Co-requisite(s): Clinical reasoning and treatment principles.

Traditionally, in China, foods and herbs have been used interchangeably to support the healing process. This course presents the traditional and contemporary use of foods as a complement to herbal therapy and the use of herbs in therapeutic cuisine.

Pre-requisite(s): Successful completion of the clinic entrance examination. Co-requisite(s): Formulae 1, 2 or 3

This course investigates the disciplines of toxicology and pharmacognosy in relation to issues that are (or should be) of particular concern to practitioners of herbal medicine in general and Chinese herbal medicine in particular. As such it can be considered to continue to address areas that are critical to biomedical pharmacology as well as to the clinical application to the Chinese materia medica. The course constitutes a formal introduction to biomedical toxicology and to pharmacognosy as it pertains to natural products, drugs of natural origin and Chinese medicinal agents.

Pre-requisite(s): Successful completion of the pre internship examination. Co-requisite(s): Clinic Internship and Clinical Oriental Medicine.

The classic texts of Chinese medicine such as the Shang Han Lun (On Cold Damage), The Shen Nong Ben Cao (The Divine Husbandman’s Basic Medicinal Agents), The Wen Bing Lun (Discussion of Warm Disease) and others form a rich corpus that continually enriches and supports the contemporary practitioner of Chinese herbal medicine. Classical Chinese Medicine 1 examines the Shang Han Lun (On Cold Damage) in detail using primary sources in translation.

Pre-requisite(s): Successful completion of the pre internship examination. Co-requisite(s): Clinic Internship and Clinical Oriental Medicine.

Classical Chinese Medicine 2 examines the clinical applications of warm disease theory, classical materia medica, and prescriptions from the Golden Cabinet, as well as specific sources selected by the instructor to develop the student’s breadth of understanding of Chinese herbal medicine.

Pre-requisite(s): Successful completion of the pre internship examination. Co-requisite(s): Clinic Internship and Clinical Oriental Medicine.

Clinical Application TCM 1-3 is a year long sequence addresses the use of herbal formulae and other therapeutic methods in TCM in the management of specific clinical problems with particular attention to internal medicine, gynecology, pediatrics, dermatology, EENT, orthopedics and geriatrics. Clinical Application TCM 1 addresses topics primarily associated with the traditional category of internal medicine or nei ke.

Pre-requisite(s): Successful completion of the pre internship examination. Co-requisite(s): Clinic Internship and Clinical Oriental Medicine

Clinical Application TCM 2 addresses topics primarily associated with the traditional categories of internal medicine or nei ke, children’s diseases (pediatrics or er ke) and women’s diseases (gynecology or fu ke).

Pre-requisite(s): Successful completion of the pre internship examination

Co-requisite(s): Clinic Internship and Clinical Oriental Medicine

Clinical Application TCM 3 addresses topics associated with the traditional categories of injury, external disease (wai ke), and diseases of the eyes, ears, nose, mouth and head.

Pre-requisite(s): Successful completion of the pre internship examination. Co-requisite(s): Clinic Internship and Clinical Oriental Medicine.

Course offerings in the basic and biomedical sciences are designed to support the development of a successful practitioner of Oriental medicine. A strong grounding is the principles of anatomy and physiology, pathophysiology, physical diagnosis, laboratory diagnosis, pharmacology and the practice of medicine are essential to clinical practice. It is a simple fact that for more than one hundred years the practice of all forms of acupuncture and Oriental medicine have occurred in relationship to modern anatomical and biological understandings of the body. This relationship which has both challenged and enriched the practice of Oriental medicine is an undeniable aspect of contemporary clinical practice. Graduates who leave programs that do not offer a strong complement of bioscience course work experience a lack of confidence in patient encounters and in their communications with other medical professionals. Touro’s 780-hour sequence is designed to provide a strong grounding in the basic and biomedical sciences while complementing the needs of its rigorous Oriental medicine program.

Consists of a series of lectures, demonstrations, and prosections designed to provide an understanding of the structural and functional anatomy of the human body. Sections covered are: general anatomical concepts; upper extremity and back; head and neck; thorax and abdomen; perineum; pelvis; and lower extremity; neuroanatomy. Coordinated with the anatomy lectures are histology lectures, which introduce the student to the structure and functions of cells and tissues of the body.

Co-requisite(s): Chemistry for the Health Sciences, Biology

This survey of the principles of chemistry and biochemistry support the successful accomplishment of advanced course work in the health sciences. This course provides an overview of the principles of general and organic chemistry followed by an intensive introduction to human biochemistry with relevant clinical correlation. Includes structure function and metabolism of proteins, carbohydrates, lipids, amino acids, nucleotides, and nucleic acids.

This course introduces students to the concepts and methods in biology. The course places special emphasis on areas that will support the student in their progress through the remainder of the bioscience curriculum. This course is designed to support the student who has had little or no prior exposure to the biological sciences.

Provides an understanding of the physiological mechanisms by which the human body functions in health and disease. Emphasis is given to the concepts that will be most frequently encountered in primary –care clinical practice, e.g., mechanisms of cardiovascular, neuromuscular, respiratory, renal, and endocrine physiology.

Pre-requisite(s): Anatomy, Chemistry for the Health Sciences, Biology,

Designed to complement the contents of Anatomy & Physiology 1, to support the effective location of acupuncture points, and to promote safe needling. Surface anatomy addresses the palpation and location of boney landmarks and the detection of underlying structures.

Pre-requisite(s): Anatomy & Physiology 1, Fundamental Theory of Oriental Medicine. Co-requisite(s): Channels and Points 1, Anatomy & Physiology 2.

Discusses the anatomy, physiology, and relationships of bacteria, fungi, protozoa, viruses, and rickettsiae and helminths. Included are lectures on the systemic diseases caused by these organisms, control of microorganisms, antibiotics, the host-parasite relationship, and the establishment of disease. The immune system is discussed in detail, including topics on resistance to disease, immunity and serology, and immune disorders.

Pre-requisite(s): Anatomy & Physiology 1 & 2, Chemistry for the Health Sciences

Explores the relationship of basic concepts in physics: mechanics, hydrodynamics, electromagnetism, and thermodynamics to biological processes, to human physiology and the to the health sciences.

Pathophysiology 1 begins the exploration of the impact of the disease process on healthy physiological systems by examining the fundamental concepts of pathology: cellular adaptation, injury, death and wound healing. Topics such as the roles of genetic information, neoplastic cell growth, alterations in hematopoietic function, immunity and inflammation are addressed. The course explores pathological alterations in circulatory and cardiac function in detail.

Pre-requisite(s): Anatomy & Physiology 1 & 2, Chemistry for the Health Sciences.

Pathophysiology 2 addresses the impacts of the disease process on the respiratory system, the renal system, the gastrointestinal system, the endocrine system and the nervous system.

Pre-requisite(s): Pathophysiology 1, Anatomy & Physiology 1 & 2, Chemistry for the Health Sciences.

Consists of lecture and laboratory. The lecture component introduces the student to the concepts and techniques of medical interviewing, obtaining and accurate history, and performing a complete and thorough physical examination. The laboratory portion emphasizes the hands-on skills necessary to perfect the techniques of the physical exam. These sessions are taught in small group settings.

Pre-requisite(s): Successful completion of the clinic entrance examination

Presents the fundamentals of human nutrition and the impact of nutrition upon health and disease. Specific topics include the impact of dietary practices on disease states and the evaluation of supplements.

Pre-requisite(s): Pathophysiology 1 & 2, Chemistry for the Health Sciences.

Reprises and examines in depth topics in the anatomy and physiology of the human nervous system. Explores the role of the nervous system in health and disease, and examines clinical assessment of neurological function.

Pre-requisite(s): Successful completion of the clinic entrance examination

Presents the principles underpinning pharmacokinetics and pharmacodynamics. Provides the students with an understanding of a drug category’s mechanism of action, therapeutic uses, major side effects, warnings and precautions.

Pre-requisite(s): Successful completion of the Clinic Entrance Examination, Human Nutrition, and Physical Diagnosis 1 & 2

Clinical Research Design introduces the student to the fundamentals of the design and evaluation of clinical research. This course covers basic biostatistics, fundamentals of study design (case studies, observational studies, randomized trials and randomized controlled trials), the critical issues in assessing aspects of Oriental medicine (sham acupuncture, placebo control versus control against standardized treatment, etc). Upon completion of this course the student will be able to design a simple RCT and to evaluate research findings, which are pertinent to their profession.

Pre-requisite(s): Successful completion of the Pre-internship Examination

This three-semester course presents the concepts associated with the biomedical diagnosis and management of disease entities according to their appearance in systems and within particular populations. The emphasis is on reinforcing and integrating the core information provided in Pathophysiology 1 & 2, and Physical Diagnosis 1 & 2 with a systematic survey of conditions that present routinely in primary care settings. Special emphasis is also placed on the needs of special populations (younger patients, older patients, & women) and on the management of prevalent chronic conditions.

Medicine 1 addresses conditions associated with the male genitourinary system, gynecology & obstetrics, pediatrics and gerontology.

Medicine 2 surveys cardiology, pulmonary disease, gastroenterology, urology, endocrinology, and hematology.

Medicine 3 surveys dermatology, otolaryngology, neurology, rheumatology and orthopedics.

Pre-requisite(s): Successful completion of the Pre-internship Examination.

Qi gong refers to the process of exercising, patterning and developing qi. Qi gong is used to calm the mind, strengthen the body, improve clinical abilities, and enhance healing. This course provides an introduction to qi gong methods such as the eight pieces of brocade and other techniques designed to unite body and mind and to harmonize the movement of qi. In addition, the clinical application of qi gong in support of the healing process will be presented.

The clinical experience begins with the encounter between the patient and the clinician. Often the clinician may be unaware of the issues that they bring to the clinical encounter or the ways in which her perceptions and attitudes influence the patient’s experiences and care. This course addresses well understood aspects of the patient practitioner interaction and, using traditional counseling models, explores the dynamic between patient and practitioner, and the way in which it is shaped by clinician attitudes and behaviors.

Pre-requisite(s): Fundamental Theory of Oriental Medicine, Chinese Medical Terminology. Co-requisite(s): Clinical Assistantship

The clinical practice of acupuncture and Oriental medicine routinely engages patients whose issues extend beyond physical discomfort or a simple medical problem. This course addresses the clinical impacts of issues such as alcohol abuse, obesity, eating disorders, chemical dependency, child abuse, depression and other debilitating or life threatening psychological disorders which may require referral or intervention. Patients presenting with complex psychological issues often present a significant challenge for the clinician who is not equipped to address those issues effectively. This course presents the skills and resources that will allow the clinician to help patients find the care they need.

Pre-requisite(s): Successful completion of the clinic entrance examination. Co-requisite(s): Clinical Assistantship.

The experience of independent clinical practice can challenge in ways that go beyond achieving an accurate diagnosis, selecting and delivering an effective treatment. Interpersonal dynamics emerge in clinical settings that are often unanticipated. Challenging patients and personal concerns can make the clinical encounter a difficult one. This course provides a resource for the new practitioner using discussion, reading and journals to facilitate the process.

Pre-requisite(s): Successful completion of the pre-internship examination. Co-requisite(s): Clinic Internship.

Within the field of Oriental medicine the history of medicine is not simply a history of discarded therapies and important new discoveries, it is the ground and origin of centuries of clinical activity, which are woven into the fabric of the contemporary clinical practice of Oriental medicine. This course guides the student through the history of Chinese medicine and examines the practices of Chinese medicine in relation to the development of biomedical practice.

Pre-requisite(s): Fundamental Theory of Oriental Medicine, Chinese Medical Terminology.

Bioethics, as distinct from professional ethics, deals with the exploration of ethical problems that emerge out of the process of providing medical care. The study of ethics engages questions concerning personal and societal values and examines these values in the context of professional practice. This course engages the history of medical ethics; contemporary issues in bioethics and confronts ethical issues relevant to clinicians.

The difference between a successful and an unsuccessful clinical practice often depends on the recognition of simple business issues. This course helps the student confront the realities of owning and running the small business that is a private practice, while dealing with issues that are important to any clinical practice whether free standing or hospital based. This course includes presentations by professionals in fields such as accounting, law and insurance as well as talks by successful clinicians in the field of Oriental medicine. Topics such as accounting practices, legal business structures, legal requirements, Occupational Safety and Health Administration (OSHA) guidelines, third party reimbursement, and relevant state laws will be presented.

Pre-requisite(s): Successful Completion of Pre-internship examination

Effective clinical practice constitutes one of the primary goals of entire program. Clinical training is closely integrated with classroom experiences to furnish support for the application of newly acquired skills.

The following course titles and numbers apply to the program in Acupuncture only; to avoid redundancy, separate course descriptions will not be offered for these courses. The content and organization of these courses is similar to that described under the similar title adopted within the Oriental Medicine program, however, activities for which the student has not been trained are not included.

This course prepares the student to become a successful participant in the clinical process and future clinical instruction. The course is designed to be taken concurrently with Clinic Observation and during the semester that precedes entrance into the clinic. An important objective of this course is the safety of both the patient and the practitioner. This course helps the student to acquire familiarity and basic competence with a range of clinical activities and therapeutic methods. Charting practices, draping and positioning methods, equipment management, and clean needle technique are presented. Methods used in acupuncture treatment including free hand needling, the use of guide tubes and supports, cutaneous stimulation (plum blossom and seven star needles), moxibustion, cupping, and gua sha are taught. Fundamental safety topics in relation to infection control and the prevention of acupuncture accidents are discussed. An orientation to the clinical assistantship process is provided.

Pre-requisite(s): Completed Application for Clinic Entrance Examination. Co-requisite(s): Clinic Observation.

Clinical Methods builds on the skills introduced in Introduction to Clinical Methods to systematically strengthen and develop the needling skills needed in the clinical practice of acupuncture. This course builds the student’s needling skills through active supervised practice. Good habits are developed and the correct methods of needling a large number of common and less commonly used acupuncture points are demonstrated and practiced.

Pre-requisite(s): Successful completion of the Clinic Entrance Examination. Co-requisite(s): Clinic Assistantship 1, Acupuncture Point Selection.

Advanced Clinical Methods builds on the skills introduced in Clinical Methods to systematically strengthen and develop the needling skills needed to use advanced techniques in the clinical practice of acupuncture. This course builds the student’s needling skills through active supervised practice. The focus of this course is the safe use of complex needling techniques such as "through and through" methods and transverse insertion, and the needling of anatomically challenging points. Methods in scalp acupuncture, and advanced moxibustion methods are also taught.

Pre-requisite(s): Clinical Methods. Co-requisite(s):Clinic Assistantship 2

Clinical observation begins the process of clinical training. All of the preceding didactic and practical course work and all future academic efforts are directed at achieving a high level of clinical competence on the part of the student. The observation phase gives the student the opportunity to participate in the process of patient care and to observe the clinical application of their knowledge base as she prepares for the clinic entrance examination.

Pre-requisite(s): Completed Application for Clinic Entrance Examination. Co-requisite(s): Introduction to Clinical Methods.

The clinical assistantship phase of the program begins after the first four semesters of training and after the student has demonstrated his or her knowledge and skill by passing the clinic entrance examination. The goal of the 300 hours of assistantship is to prepare the student to become an effective intern through mentoring, reinforcing practical and conceptual skills, and guiding the student’s development as clinicians. The clinical assistant follows, observes, and supports the practice of clinical faculty and senior students as they provide care for patients. Based on the student’s level of mastery, the clinical faculty will actively encourage the student to assume greater responsibility for various aspects of patient care. This process leads to the student assuming almost complete responsibility for patients, under close supervision, at the conclusion of the assistantship.

Pre-requisite(s): Successful completion of the Clinic Entrance Examination. Co-requisite(s): Clinical Reasoning & Treatment Methods,

Pre-requisite(s): Clinical Assistantship 1

Co-requisite(s): Case Review & Analysis 1, Acupuncture Therapeutics 1, Physical Diagnosis 1

Pre-requisite(s): Clinical Assistantship 2, 3

Co-requisite(s): Case Review & Analysis 2, Acupuncture Therapeutics 2, Physical Diagnosis 2

The process of clinic internship is preceded by the successful completion of the pre-internship examination. During the 540 hours of the clinic internship the intern functions as the primary provider for patients in a clinical setting while receiving supervision and guidance from members of the clinic faculty. The internship phase of the program provides the student with an opportunity to experience the challenges of private practice with extensive academic and clinical support. This process allows the student to form their identity as a clinician and to integrate advanced course work in diagnosis and treatment with direct patient care.

Pre-requisite(s): Successful completion of the pre-internship examination. Co-requisite(s): Clinical Oriental Medicine 1.

Pre-requisite(s): Clinic Internship 1,2,3

Co-requisite(s): Clinical Oriental Medicine 2

Pre-requisite(s): Clinic Internship 4,5,6

Co-requisite(s): Clinical Oriental Medicine 3

This course introduces the basic Chinese grammar and the vocabulary used in contemporary Chinese medical texts. The initial focus of the course is on the translation of text fragments from standard texts addressing theory, diagnosis, and treatment. The second half of the course addresses the translation of case reports in published texts and journals. Although designed to support reading comprehension in support of clinical scholarship this course will provide support for accurate pronunciation, character writing and comprehension.

Prerequisite: Chinese Medical Terminology, Fundamental Theory of Oriental Medicine

Building on the skills developed in Introduction to Chinese Medical Text Translation this course focuses on increasing the students vocabulary, grasp of grammar and facility in translation of clinical case reports. Although designed to support reading comprehension in support of clinical scholarship this course will provide support for accurate pronunciation, character writing and comprehension.

Prerequisite: Introduction to Chinese Medical Text Translation

Building on the skills developed in the two preceding courses, this course focuses on increasing the students vocabulary, grasp of grammar and facility in translation of clinical case reports. The objective of this course is to support students in achieving the translation of complete case reports. Although designed to support reading comprehension in support of clinical scholarship this course will provide support for accurate pronunciation, character writing and comprehension.

Prerequisite: Chinese Medical Text Translation

Building on the skills developed in the three preceding courses, this course addresses a translation project of some magnitude by focusing on the group translation of a text chapter, or larger study selected by the faculty as suitable for a publishable translation project. Although designed to support reading comprehension in support of clinical scholarship this course will provide support for accurate pronunciation, character writing and comprehension.

Prerequisite: Chinese Medical Text Translation

Participation in the course requires the consent of the instructor and program director. This course is designed for the student who has reached a level of skill in translation, which permits independent pursuit of a specific translation project with appropriate faculty guidance. May be repeated for credit.

Building on the contents of Tui Na 1 & 2 this course permits the interested student to increase their skill in the utilization of Tui Na in the management of specific clinical conditions.

Prerequisite: Tui Na 1 & 2

This course addresses the clinical applications of Tui Na to complex medical conditions. Based on the determination of the faculty it may address topics in orthopedics, rehabilitation and other areas.

Prerequisite: Tui Na 1 & 2

This faculty directed course provides an opportunity for faculty working in distinctive areas of clinical integration to share their expertise and to assist the advanced student in gaining expertise in delivering integrative medical care.

This course provides an opportunity for the advanced student to explore specialized or distinctive applications of traditional Chinese medicine under the guidance of senior faculty.

This course allows the advanced intern to explore a specialized area of clinical endeavour under the supervision of a clinician with specific expertise.

Designed to permit the scholarly exploration of any appropriate topic under faculty supervision. This course may be used an end in itself or as a prelude to the more extensive project of research or thesis production.

This course supports the preparation of a scholarly paper which proposes and advances a formal thesis. Enrollment in this course requires the submission to and the approval by the program director of a thesis statement and literature review already approved by three faculty members. This course may be repeated for credit.

This course supports formal research activities by the student, under appropriate faculty supervision. Prior approval by the program director is required for enrollment.

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