Global experiences with the ACHP integration: A model of integrative care

Background: The ACHP integration in the mainstream health care system in other countries is instructive for the USA. The global experiences have demonstrated that this model could improve effectiveness and efficiency of health care. The objectives of this study: 1. analyzing the ACHP-integration in Europe and Asia, such as Germany, France, India, mainland China, Taiwan, Korea, and Japan; 2. providing a working model for the United States. Method: This project uses a metaanalysis and case analysis apparoch to examine the operation of ACHP integration in the health care system: I. The conceptual framework examines the ethnomedical systems. II. The operational framework examines: the ACHP regulatory framework, training and education, role division, and patient coverage. Results The ACHP is integrated in the health systems of a very large population in Europe and Asia. 2. The use of ACHP results from the ethnomedical systems and patients needs/demands 3. The ACHP integration is regulated through a legal framework. 4. ACHP integration is operated through education, training, and certification of health professionals. 5. The health systems analyzed provide access and coverge for the ACHP use for prevention and intervention.

Conclusion: The ACHP integration into the mainstream health system in the global context provides a possible example for the USA to achieve an efficient and effective in health care. The ACHP integration could be usefor for both prevention and intervention in terms of the application of food supplements, herbal medicines, energy treatment (acupuncture, oxcibustion, coining, and reflexology) in the current system.