Acupuncturists Poke Holes in Column

We, the members of the California Acupuncture Assn., were disappointed with Daniel Akst’s column, “Prickly Problems in Regulating Acupuncturists” (June 9).

While his descriptions of the troubled history of the Acupuncture Committee are generally accurate, Akst gives the impression patients are at risk when seeking treatment from licensed acupuncturists. Statistics don’t support this view.

Statistics from malpractice liability insurers and other sources suggest that the risks to patients of licensed acupuncturists is extremely low compared to other primary care modalities. Of the approximately 6,000 licensed acupuncturists practicing in the United States, only .01% were sued for alleged malpractice in the past two years.

I also object to being quoted out of context. The statement, “ ‘It’s a difficult subject to talk about without slandering someone,’ says a disgusted David Wells, president of the California Acupuncture Assn.,” is wrong and misleading.

First, I am not disgusted with anyone, and I don’t appreciate being characterized as such. Second, the context of the article implies that I am critical of the Acupuncture Committee, which I am not. In response to Akst’s question, I said that I am pleased with the current Acupuncture Committee. I believe it is the best regulatory board we have had.

When I made the remark about not wishing to slander someone, I was referring to the acupuncturist who stepped down because of allegations that he had bought the answers to the licensing exam. He pleaded not guilty to the charges, and the case was dropped due to lack of evidence. I didn’t want to discuss the matter as it would unfairly criticize someone who, as far as I or the legal system knows, is innocent.

The California Acupuncture Assn. supports the most vigorous enforcement of acupuncture regulations. We are developing standards of care and peer review to further protect the public.

In the interim, the experiences of the estimated 1.5 million Californians that receive acupuncture treatments each year and insurers’ malpractice statistics confirm its general safety and effectiveness. We are disappointed that Akst’s column may prevent thousands of Californians from seeking the benefits of acupuncture.

DAVID WELLS

San Diego