A View from the Field Glenn L. Wilcox, DOM Scope of Practice A discussion of the scope of practice for any healthcare profession involves two components. What we refer to as Oriental medicine is a big, old map. Specifically, it is a cognitive map. Personally, I think it is very good. However, we must be careful not to confuse the map with reality, or we may encounter problems.
Maps are good tools.
Possessing the knowledge about different tools and the skill to use those tools allows us to choose the most appropriate tool for the job, and therefore be more effective and experience more enjoyment from our activities. Putting screws in with a hammer, for instance, is frustrating. Our hope was that this would promote consistency, coherence and recognition of national image. We also developed the first draft of a definition of Oriental medicine, which we took back to our respective organizations for input and then would work on together this summer. I ts purpose is the restoration, maintenance and optimization of physical, mental, spiritual and societal health by promoting and regulating a harmonious balance of yin, yang and qi .