This explosion is due to the recognition by consumers and regulators of the safety, effectiveness and low cost of this form of health care. Legislation has been introduced in an additional five states. The FDA estimated in May 1993 that there were 9 to 12 million patient visits each year for acupuncture. Acupuncture is a three-year masters level program.
Oriental medicine is a four-year masters level program.
Over forty colleges are accredited or in candidacy status. Acupuncture is used in more than 20 states in over 800 drug dependency programs. Patients who go through these programs have lower rearrest rates on drug-related charges than those not treated with acupuncture. A study in six clinics in five states showed efficacy and cost savings of acupuncture. The number of licensed acupuncturists in the US has doubled between 1992 and 1998, rising from 5,525 in the fall of 1992 to 10,512 in 1998.