The Foundations of Oriental Medicine Content Outline
Domain I: Clinical Examination Methods (35% of Exam)
A. Looking (Wang)
1. Spirit (Shen)
a. Identify outward manifestation of Spirit (Shen) (e.g., complexion, expression, demeanor,
general behavior)
b. Identify and relate state of Spirit (Shen) to clinical significance
2. Face, eyes, nose, ears, mouth, lips, teeth, head, and throat
a. Identify normal and abnormal conditions and changes of the eyes, nose, ears, mouth, lips, teeth, throat, face, and complexion (including color, moisture, texture, and organindicative locations)
b. Identify and relate the pathological manifestations of the face, including color, moisture, texture, to organ correspondence and to pattern/syndrome differentiation*
3. Tongue
a. Identify normal and abnormal manifestations, patterns, conditions, and changes of the tongue and sublingual veins
b. Identify and relate features of the tongue and tongue coating, including color, size, moisture, texture, shape, position, movement, organ correspondence to pattern/syndrome differentiation*
4. Physical characteristics of the body
a. Identify normal and abnormal form, movement, and physical characteristics (e.g., head, hair, neck, back, chest, abdomen, extremities, nails)
b. Identify and relate form, movement, and physical characteristics to pattern/syndrome differentiation*
c. Identify normal and abnormal conditions and changes of the skin
d. Identify and relate the pathological significance of conditions and changes of the skin to pattern/syndrome differentiation*
e. Identify normal and abnormal excretions (e.g., sputum, saliva, sweat, discharge, stool, urine)
f. Identify and relate the pathological significance of excretions to pattern/syndrome differentiation*
B. Listening and smelling (Wen)
1. Sounds
a. Identify and relate normal and abnormal respiratory sounds to pattern/syndrome differentiation*
b. Identify and relate normal and abnormal tonal qualities, voice, and speech to pattern/syndrome differentiation*
2. Odors
a. Identify and relate normal and abnormal body, breath/mouth odors to pattern/syndrome differentiation*
b. Identify and relate normal and abnormal odors of excretions/secretions (e.g., urine, stool, wound exudates) to pattern/syndrome differentiation*
C. Asking (Wen)
1. Chief complaint
a. Assess presenting complaint (e.g., onset, location, aggravation)
b. Identify and relate chief complaint to pattern/syndrome differentiation*
c. Identify appropriate additional questions based on patient’s responses and examination findings
2. Current health conditions
a. Evaluate a review of systems, including the “Ten Questions” (Shi Wen) (e.g., pain, energy level, sweating)
b. Identify and relate current health conditions to pattern/syndrome differentiation*
c. Identify appropriate additional questions based on patient’s responses and examination findings
3. Patient environmental and social history
a. Identify and relate internal factors (e.g., emotions, stress) to pattern/syndrome differentiation*
b. Identify and relate external factors (e.g., environmental factors) to pattern/syndrome differentiation*
c. Identify and relate miscellaneous factors (e.g., dietary habits, work habits, occupation) to pattern/syndrome differentiation*
4. Health history
a. Assess personal health history, including previous symptoms, diagnoses, and treatments
b. Assess family history
c. Identify and relate health history to pattern/syndrome differentiation*
d. Identify appropriate additional questions based on patient’s responses and health history
D. Touching/palpation (Qie)
1. Pulses
a.Differentiate radial pulse characteristics (e.g., rate, depth, strength) and relate to pattern/syndrome differentiation*
2. Abdomen
a. Assess the abdomen (e.g., temperature, texture, shape, and pain) and relate to pattern/syndrome differentiation*
b. Identify abdominal regions corresponding to organ systems (e.g., abdominal diagnosis)
3. Channels
a. Identify and correlate findings along the channels (e.g., nodules, tenderness, temperature) to pattern/syndrome differentiation*
4. Other body areas
a. Identify and correlate body sensations (e.g., pain, numbness, tingling, sensitivity), temperature changes, and quality of tissue (e.g., edema, hardness/softness, tension/flaccidity) to pattern/syndrome differentiation*
*Pattern/Syndrome Differentiation:
• Eight Principles (Ba Gang)
• Organs (Zang Fu)
• Meridian/Channel (Jing Luo)
• Six Stages (Liu Jing)
• Four Levels (Wei, Qi, Ying, Xue)
• Five Elements (Wu Xing)
• Qi, Blood, Body Fluids (Qi, Xue, Jin Ye)
• Triple Burner (San Jiao)
Domain II: Assessment, Analysis, and Differential Diagnosis Based Upon Acupuncture and Chinese Medicine Theory (35% of Exam)
A. Differential diagnosis based upon chief complaint, prioritization of major signs and symptoms, knowledge of acupuncture and Chinese medicine diseases, and pattern identification
1. Yin/Yang Theory
a. Assess and analyze signs and symptoms according to yin/yang theory
b. Identify and apply yin/yang theory to formulate a pattern/syndrome differentiation
2. Five Elements Theory (Five Phases/Wu Xing)
a. Assess and analyze signs and symptoms according to Five Elements theory
b. Identify and apply Five Elements theory to formulate a pattern/syndrome differentiation
3. Eight Principles (Ba Gang) (e.g., interior/exterior, heat/cold)
a. Assess and analyze signs and symptoms according to the Eight Principles
b. Identify and apply the Eight Principles to formulate a pattern/syndrome differentiation
4. Qi, Blood, Body Fluids Theory (Qi, Xue, Jin Ye)
a. Assess and analyze signs and symptoms according to Qi, Blood, body fluids theory
b. Identify and apply Qi, Blood, body fluids theory to formulate a pattern/syndrome differentiation
5. Channel Theory (Jing Luo) (e.g., Twelve primary channels, Eight Extraordinary channels, Luo-connecting channels)
a. Assess and analyze signs and symptoms according to channel theory
b. Identify and apply channel theory to formulate a pattern/syndrome differentiation
6. Organ Theory (Zang Fu)
a. Assess and analyze signs and symptoms according to organ theory
b. Identify and apply organ theory to formulate a pattern/syndrome differentiation
7. Six Stages Theory (e.g., Tai Yang, Yang Ming, Jue Yin)
a. Assess and analyze signs and symptoms according to Six Stages theory
b. Identify and apply Six Stages theory to formulate a pattern/syndrome differentiation
8. Four Levels Theory (Wei, Qi, Ying, Xue)
a. Assess and analyze signs and symptoms according to Four Levels theory
b. Identify and apply Four Levels theory to formulate a pattern/syndrome differentiation
9. Triple Burner Theory (San Jiao)
a. Assess and analyze signs and symptoms according to Triple Burner theory
b. Identify and apply Triple Burner theory to formulate a pattern/syndrome differentiation
10.Etiology Theory: External, Internal, and Miscellaneous (neither External nor Internal)
a. External (e.g., Wind, Damp, Cold, Pestilential Qi [Li Qi])
i. Assess and analyze signs and symptoms according to external etiology
ii. Identify and apply external etiology theory to formulate a pattern/syndrome differentiation
b. Internal (e.g., anger, joy, stress)
i. Assess and analyze signs and symptoms according to internal etiology
ii. Identify and apply internal etiology theory to formulate a pattern/syndrome differentiation
c. Miscellaneous (e.g., diet, lifestyle, trauma, Phlegm, Blood Stasis)
i. Assess and analyze signs and symptoms according to miscellaneous etiology
Domain III: Treatment Principle and Strategy (30% of Exam)
A. Treatment principle and strategies
1. Formulate treatment principle and strategies based upon
a. Yin/Yang Theory
b. Five Elements Theory (Five Phases/Wu Xing)
c. Eight Principles (Ba Gang) (e.g., interior/exterior, heat/cold)
d. Qi, Blood, Body Fluids Theory (Qi, Xue, Jin Ye)
e. Channel Theory (Jing Luo) (e.g., Primary channels, Extraordinary channels, Luo connecting channels)
f. Organ Theory (Zang Fu)
g. Six Stages Theory (e.g., Tai Yang, Yang Ming, Jue Yin)
h. Four Levels Theory (Wei, Qi, Ying, Xue)
i. Triple Burner Theory (San Jiao)
j. Etiology Theory: External, Internal, and Miscellaneous (neither External nor Internal)
2. Prioritize treatment strategies based on acupuncture and Chinese medicine principles (e.g., Root and Branch, constitutional, seasonal)
3. Modify treatment principle and/or strategy based on patient’s response, disease progression, and lifestyle factors
B. Lifestyle changes and self-care modalities
1. Recommend lifestyle changes and self-care modalities
a. Exercise (e.g., Qi Gong, Tai Ji)
b. Meditation, relaxation, and breathing techniques
c. Dietary guidance
The Acupuncture with Point Location Content Outline
Domain I: Safety and Professional Responsibilities (15% of Exam)
A. Professional practice
1. Describe risks and benefits of acupuncture treatment and adjunctive therapies (e.g., ear seeds, moxibustion, exercises)
B. Acupuncture-related adverse events
1. Recognize and manage adverse events (e.g., burns, pneumothorax, hemorrhage, needle shock, stuck needle)
2. Recognize risk factors for individual patients (e.g., blood thinners, diabetes)
C. Infection control
1. Apply infection control procedures to acupuncture practice (e.g., bloodborne pathogens, Universal Precautions, CDC and OSHA Guidelines)
2. Practice according to Clean Needle Technique (CNT) standards and procedures
D. Case management
1. Patient education and communication
a. Communicate diagnosis, treatment plan, and prognosis using patient-appropriate language
b. Communicate/collaborate with patient to set treatment goals and expectations
2. Follow-up care
a. Refer and/or discharge patient as appropriate
b. Communicate and collaborate with other health care providers to identify the most effective treatment for patient (e.g., evidence-informed practice, applying integrative patient care)
Domain II: Treatment Plan (50% of Exam)
A. Strategies and treatment methods
1. Determine strategies and treatment methods
2. Determine modifications based on special populations (e.g., pediatrics, geriatrics, pregnancy, special needs)
B. Acupuncture treatment strategies according to diagnosis
1. Perform point selection based on differentiation/symptoms, functions and indications
2. Select points according to traditional Chinese medicine concepts
a. Channel Theory
b. Five Elements Theory
c. Point Categories
i. Five Transporting (Shu)/Antique points (e.g., Jing-Well, Ying-Spring, Shu Stream, Jing-River, He-Sea)
ii. Extra points (Refer to Appendix of Extra Points)
iii. Eight Influential points
iv. Eight Confluent points
v. Four Seas points
vi. Front-Mu (Alarm) points, Back-Shu (Associated) points and their combination(s) (e.g., excess/deficient, systemic imbalances)
vii. Source (Yuan) and Connecting (Luo) points
viii. Tonification and/or Sedation points
ix. Five Elements
x. Xi-Cleft points
d. Root and Branch Theory
e. Organ Theory (Zang Fu)
f. Eight Principles
g. Point Combinations (e.g., Four Gates, Mother/Son, Entry/Exit)
h. Tender points (Ashi)
i. Chinese organ clock
3. Select points according to other acupuncture concepts
a. Auriculotherapy
b. Local, adjacent, distal
c. Mirroring (e.g., elbow-for-knee, right-for-left, front-for-back)
d. Scalp acupuncture
4. Select points according to biomedical concepts
a. Trigger points
b. Motor points
c. Myofascial treatments
d. Effects on blood flow, neurohormonal regulation, and brain connectivity
C. Cautions and contraindications
1. Identify cautions and contraindications (e.g., pregnancy, organ damage, inflamed or non-intact skin)
D. Treatment plan modifications
1. Re-evaluate and modify treatment plan based on response
Domain III: Treatment Techniques (20% of Exam)
A. Acupuncture
1. Determine position of patient for treatment
2. Select needles to achieve desired treatment goals (e.g., length, gauge, filiform or other types of needles)
3. Needling technique
a. Apply insertion techniques (e.g., angle, depth, stretching skin)
b. Apply needle manipulation (e.g., arrival of Qi, reinforcing, reducing, lifting and thrusting)
c. Determine needle retention time
d. Apply needle removal techniques (e.g., order, speed, pressure)
e. Adjust technique based on patient presentation (e.g., stimulation method, intensity, needle retention time)
B. Moxibustion
1. Identify functions, indications, and contraindications
2. Determine and apply techniques (e.g., direct, indirect, warming needle)
C. Adjunctive therapies
1. Identify functions, indications, contraindications, and application
2. Determine and apply techniques during treatment
a. Bleeding
b. Cupping
c. Ear seeds, balls, magnets
d. Electroacupuncture
e. Gua Sha
f. Heat
D. Asian bodywork therapy
1. Recognize appropriate application of Asian bodywork therapy (e.g., Tui Na, Shiatsu, acupressure)
Domain IV: Acupuncture Point Location (15% of Exam)
A. Acupuncture point location methods
1. Identify points on images
2. Identify points according to cun measurement and anatomical landmarks
Appendix: Extra Points
The exam will focus on but may not be exclusively limited to the list below.
• Anmian
• Bafeng
• Baichongwo
• Bailao
• Baxie
• Bitong
• Dannangxue
• Dingchuan
• Erbai
• Erjian
• Heding
• Huatuojiaji
• Jianqian/Jianneiling
• Lanweixue
• Luozhen
• Pigen
• Shiqizhuixue/Shiqizhuixia
• Sifeng
• Sishencong
• Taiyang
• Weiguanxiashu
• Xiyan/Neixiyan
• Yaotongxue
• Yaoyan
• Yintang
• Yuyao
• Zigongxu
The Chinese Herbology Content Outline
Domain I: Safety and Quality of Chinese Herbs (10% of Exam)
A. Safety of Chinese herbs and herbal formulas
1. Cautions and contraindications of herbs and herbal formulas
a. Identify cautions and contraindications of herbs and
herbal formulas (e.g., allergies, relevant to pattern/syndrome differentiation)
2. Herb, supplement, and pharmaceutical interactions
a. Recognize potential herb, supplement, and pharmaceutical interactions
b. Apply strategies to avoid herb, supplement, and pharmaceutical interactions
3. Potential adverse effects and toxicity
a. Identify potential toxicity of herbs and herbal formulas
b. Apply strategies to prevent toxicity of herbs and
herbal formulas
c. Identify the effects of processing herbs on efficacy and toxicity
d. Identify combinations of herbs that are toxic or produce
adverse effects (e.g., 18 Incompatibles [Shi Ba Fan], 19 Antagonisms [Shi Jiu Wei])
B. Quality control of raw and prepared Chinese herbs and formulas
1. Identify the quality of raw herbs based on appearance, smell, and taste
2. Apply substitutions for raw and prepared herbs and formulas containing obsolete substances (e.g., endangered species), animal products, and allergens
3. Select and prescribe raw and prepared herbs and formulas that adhere to current Good Manufacturing Practice standards (cGMP)
4. Store, dispense, and inventory raw and prepared herbs and formulas according to best practice and FDA requirements (e.g., temperature, moisture, expiration date)
5. Recognize signs of contamination of stored raw and prepared herbs and formulas
Domain II:
Treatment Planning and Strategies (70% of Exam)
A. Chinese herbal recommendations based on assessment
1. Individual herbs (Refer to Appendix A: Chinese Individual Herbs)
a. Herbal properties
i. Identify characteristics (tastes, temperature,
directions, and channels entered) of individual herbs
ii. Identify herbs according to their therapeutic
categories
b. Functions and indications
i. Identify the functions and indications of individual herbs
ii. Identify the effects of processing (Pao Zhi)
(e.g., honey-fried [Mi Zhi], dry-fried [Chao]) on the functions and indications of herbs
iii. Apply/prescribe Chinese herbs for patients based
on presenting signs and symptoms
c. Herbal pairing (Dui Yao)
i. Identify the functions and indications of common
herbal pairs
ii. Apply/prescribe common herbal pairs for patients
based on presenting signs and symptoms
d. Treatment strategy
i. Use treatment strategies, principles, and methods
of herbal medicine (e.g., tonify, harmonize, sweat) to choose herbs to achieve specific treatment strategies
2. Chinese herbal formulas (Refer to Appendix B: Chinese Herbal Formulas)
a. Ingredients
i. Identify the ingredients of herbal formulas
ii. Identify potential substitutions for individual ingredients in herbal formulas iii. Apply strategies for combining individual herbs to create herbal formulas iv. Identify the synergistic relationships of ingredients in herbal formulas
b. Herbal formula hierarchy
i. Identify and analyze the Hierarchy within herbal formulas (e.g., chief [Jun], deputy [Chen])
c. Functions and indications
i. Identify the functions and indications of herbal
formulas
ii. Apply/prescribe herbal formulas based on patient
assessment
d. Treatment strategy
i. Use treatment strategies, principles, and methods
of herbal medicine (e.g., tonify, harmonize, sweat) to choose formulas to achieve specific treatment strategies
ii. Modify prescribed herbal formulas based on patient
assessment (e.g., signs, symptoms, constitution)
B. Preparation and administration of Chinese herbs and formulas
1. Forms of administration (e.g., decoction, raw, pills, granules, topical)
a. Differentiate and apply herbs and formulas based on
forms of administration
b. Demonstrate knowledge of techniques for external
applications (e.g., plasters, poultices, soaks)
2. Specific decoction methods
a. Apply specific decoction methods to prepare herbs and
herbal formulas (e.g., add near the end, pre-decoct, wrap in cheesecloth)
3. Dosage of herbs and formulas
a. Apply common dosages of herbs and formulas
b. Identify the effect of dosage on therapeutic
effectiveness and toxicity
C. Chinese dietary therapy
1. Identify the characteristics, actions, and indications of foods based on Chinese medicine principles
2. Recommend dietary therapy according to Chinese medicine principles
Domain III:
Patient Management (20% of Exam)
A. Patient assessment
1. Evaluate the suitability of herbal treatment for the patient
2. Assess whether patient is better served by another modality (e.g., biomedicine, acupuncture, psychotherapy)
B. Patient education
1. Advise patients of the benefits and expectations of herbal therapy
2. Advise patients of the potential adverse effects and risks of herbal therapy
3. Advise patients on the preparation and administration methods for herbs and formulas
C. Treatment evaluation and modification
1. Assess effectiveness of herbal therapy
2. Monitor patient response to herbal therapy for adverse effects
3. Monitor effects of herbal therapy when combined with pharmaceuticals and supplements
4. Evaluate and modify treatment plans based on patient response to herbal therapy
Appendix A: Chinese Individual Herbs
Please Note: The exam will focus on, but may not be exclusively limited to, the individual herbs listed below.
Individual herbs not on this list may still appear on the exam as distractors (incorrect answers). Candidates are also responsible for being familiar with all individual herbs that are mentioned in the content
outline.
• Ai Ye (Artemisiae Argyi Folium)
• Ba Ji Tian (Morindae officinalis Radix)
• Bai Bu (Stemonae Radix)
• Bai Bian Dou (Lablab Semen album)
• Bai Dou Kou (Amomi Fructus Rotundus)
• Bai Guo (Ginkgo Semen)
• Bai He (Lilii Bulbus)
• Bai Hua She (Agkistrodon/Bungarus)
• Bai Hua She She Cao (Oldenlandiae Herba)
• Bai Ji (Bletillae Rhizoma)
• Bai Jiang Cao (Patriniae Herba)
• Bai Jie Zi (Sinapis Semen)
• Bai Mao Gen (Imperatae Rhizoma)
• Bai Qian (Cynanchi stauntonii Rhizoma)
• Bai Shao (Paeoniae Radix alba)
• Bai Tou Weng (Pulsatillae Radix)
• Bai Wei (Cynanchi atrati Radix)
• Bai Xian Pi (Dictamni Cortex)
• Bai Zhi (Angelicae dahuricae Radix)
• Bai Zhu (Atractylodis macrocephalae Rhizoma)
• Bai Zi Ren (Platycladi Semen)
• Ban Lan Gen (Isatidis/Baphicacanthis Radix)
• Ban Xia (Pinelliae Rhizoma)
• Bi Ba (Piperis longi Fructus)
• Bi Xie (Dioscoreae hypoglaucae Rhizoma)
• Bian Xu (Polygoni avicularis Herba)
• Bie Jia (Trionycis Carapax)
• Bo He (Menthae haplocalycis Herba)
• Bu Gu Zhi (Psoraleae Fructus)
• Cang Er Zi (Xanthii Fructus)
• Cang Zhu (Atractylodis Rhizoma)
• Cao Dou Kou (Alpiniae katsumadai Semen)
• Cao Guo (Tsaoko Fructus)
• Cao Wu (Aconiti kusnezoffii Radix)
• Ce Bai Ye (Platycladi Cacumen)
• Chai Hu (Bupleuri Radix)
• Chan Tui (Cicadae Periostracum)
• Che Qian Zi (Plantaginis Semen)
• Chen Pi (Citri reticulatae Pericarpium)
• Chen Xiang (Aquilariae Lignum resinatum)
• Chi Shao (Paeoniae Radix rubra)
• Chi Shi Zhi (Halloysitum rubrum)
• Chuan Bei Mu (Fritillariae cirrhosae Bulbus)
• Chuan Lian Zi (Toosendan Fructus)
• Chuan Niu Xi (Cyathulae Radix)
• Chuan Xiong (Chuanxiong Rhizoma)
• Chun Pi (Ailanthi Cortex)
• Ci Ji Li (Tribuli Fructus)
• Ci Shi (Magnetitum)
• Da Fu Pi (Arecae Pericarpium)
• Da Huang (Rhei Radix et Rhizoma)
• Da Ji (Herba seu Radix Cirsii Japonici)
• Da Zao (Jujubae Fructus)
• Dai Zhe Shi (Haematitum)
• Dan Dou Chi (Sojae Semen preparatum)
• Dan Nan Xing (Arisaema Rhizoma cum Bile)
• Dan Shen (Salviae miltiorrhizae Radix)
• Dan Zhu Ye (Lophateri Herba)
• Dang Gui (Angelicae sinensis Radix)
• Dang Shen (Codonopsis Radix)
• Deng Xin Cao (Junci Medulla)
• Di Fu Zi (Kochiae Fructus)
• Di Gu Pi (Lycii Cortex)
• Di Long (Pheretima)
• Di Yu (Sanguisorbae Radix)
• Ding Xiang (Caryophylli Flos)
• Dong Chong Xia Cao (Cordyceps)
• Dong Gua Zi (Benincasae Semen)
• Dong Kui Zi (Malvae Fructus)
• Du Huo (Angelicae pubescentis Radix)
• Du Zhong (Eucommiae Cortex)
• E Jiao (Asini Corii Colla)
• E Zhu (Curcumae Rhizoma)
• Fan Xie Ye (Sennae Folium)
• Fang Feng (Saposhnikoviae Radix)
• Fo Shou (Citri sarcodactylis Fructus)
• Fu Ling (Poria)
• Fu Pen Zi (Rubi Fructus)
• Fu Shen (Poriae Sclerotium pararadicis)
• Fu Xiao Mai (Tritici Fructus Levis)
• Fu Zi (Aconiti Radix lateralis)
• Gan Cao (Glycyrrhizae Radix)
• Gan Jiang (Zingiberis Rhizoma)
• Gao Ben (Ligustici Rhizoma)
• Gao Liang Jiang (Alpiniae officinarum Rhizoma)
• Ge Gen (Puerariae Radix)
• Gou Ji (Cibotii Rhizoma)
• Gou Qi Zi (Lycii Fructus)
• Gou Teng (Uncariae Ramulus cum Uncus)
• Gu Sui Bu (Drynariae Rhizoma)
• Gu Ya (Setariae Fructus germinatus)
• Gua Lou (Trichosanthis Fructus)
• Gua Lou Pi (Trichosanthis Pericarpium)
• Gua Lou Ren (Trichosanthis Semen)
• Gui Ban (Testudinis Plastri)
• Gui Ban Jiao (Testudinis Plastri Colla)
• Gui Zhi (Cinnamomi Ramulus)
• Hai Piao Xiao (Sepia Endoconcha)
• Hai Tong Pi (Erythrinae Cortex)
• Hai Zao (Sargassum)
• Han Fang Ji (Stephaniae tetrandrae Radix)
• Han Lian Cao (Ecliptae Herba)
• He Huan Pi (Albiziae Cortex)
• He Shou Wu (Polygoni multiflori Radix)
• He Ye (Nelumbinis Folium)
• He Zi (Chebulae Fructus)
• Hei Zhi Ma (Sesami Semen nigrum)
• Hong Hua (Carthami Flos)
• Hou Po (Magnoliae officinalis Cortex)
• Hu Jiao (Piperis Fructus)
• He Tao Ren (Juglandis Semen)
• Hua Jiao (Zanthoxyli Pericarpium)
• Hua Shi (Talcum)
• Huai Mi (Sophorae Flos immaturus)
• Huai Niu Xi (Achyranthis bidentatae Radix)
• Huang Bai (Phellodendri Cortex)
• Huang Jing (Polygonati Rhizoma)
• Huang Lian (Coptidis Rhizoma)
• Huang Qi (Astragali Radix)
• Huang Qin (Scutellariae Radix)
• Huo Ma Ren (Cannabis Semen)
• Huo Xiang (Pogostemonis/Agastaches Herba)
• Ji Nei Jin (Gigeriae galli Endothelium corneum)
• Ji Xue Teng (Spatholobi Caulis)
• Jiang Huang (Curcumae longae Rhizoma)
• Jie Geng (Platycodi Radix)
• Jin Yin Hua (Lonicerae Flos)
• Jin Ying Zi (Rosae laevigatae Fructus)
• Jing Jie (Schizonepetae Herba)
• Jing Mi (Oryzae Semen)
• Ju Hong (Citri reticulatae Exocarpium rubrum)
• Ju Hua (Chrysanthemi Flos)
• Jue Ming Zi (Cassia Semen)
• Ku Shen (Sophorae flavescentis Radix)
• Kuan Dong Hua (Farfarae Flos)
• Lai Fu Zi (Raphani Semen)
• Lian Qiao (Forsythia Fructus)
• Lian Xu (Nelumbinis Stamen)
• Lian Zi (Nelumbinis Semen)
• Long Dan Cao (Gentianae Radix)
• Long Gu (Fossilia Ossis Mastodi)
• Long Yan Rou (Longan Arillus)
• Lu Dou (Phaseoli Semen)
• Lu Gen (Phragmitis Rhizoma)
• Lu Hui (Aloe)
• Lu Jiao Jiao (Cervi Cornus Colla)
• Lu Rong (Cervi Cornu pantotrichum)
• Ma Bo (Lasiosphaera/Calvatia)
• Ma Huang (Ephedrae Herba)
• Mai Men Dong (Ophiopogonis Radix)
• Mai Ya (Hordei Fructus germinatus)
• Man Jing Zi (Viticis Fructus)
• Mang Xiao (Natrii Sulfas)
• Mei Gui Hua (Rosae rugosae Flos)
• Mo Yao (Myrrha)
• Mu Dan Pi (Moutan Cortex)
• Mu Gua (Chaenomelis Fructus)
• Mu Li (Ostreae Concha)
• Mu Tong (Akebiae Caulis)
• Mu Xiang (Aucklandiae Radix)
• Mu Zei (Equiseti hiemalis Herba)
• Niu Bang Zi (Arctii Fructus)
• Niu Huang (Bovis Calculus)
• Nu Zhen Zi (Ligustri Lucidi Fructus)
• Ou Jie (Nelumbinis Nodus Rhizomatis)
• Pao Jiang (Zingiberis Rhizoma preparatum)
• Pi Pa Ye (Eriobotryae Folium)
• Pu Gong Ying (Taraxaci Herba)
• Pu Huang (Typhae Pollen)
• Qian Cao (Rubiae Radix)
• Qian Hu (Peucedani Radix)
• Qian Shi (Euryales Semen)
• Qiang Huo (Notopterygii Rhizoma Seu Radix)
• Qin Jiao (Gentianae macrophyllae Radix)
• Qin Pi (Fraxini Cortex)
• Qing Pi (Citri reticulatae viride Pericarpium)
• Qing Hao (Artemisiae annuae Herba)
• Qu Mai (Dianthi Herba)
• Ren Shen (Ginseng Radix)
• Rou Cong Rong (Cistanches Herba)
• Rou Dou Kou (Myristicae Semen)
• Rou Gui (Cinnamomi Cortex)
• Ru Xiang (Olibanum)
• San Leng (Sparganii Rhizoma)
• San Qi (Notoginseng Radix)
• Sang Bai Pi (Mori Cortex)
• Sang Ji Sheng (Taxilli Herba)
• Sang Piao Xiao (Mantidis Ootheca)
• Sang Shen (Mori Fructus)
• Sang Ye (Mori Folium)
• Sang Zhi (Mori Ramulus)
• Sha Ren (Amomi Fructus)
• Sha Shen (Glehniae/Adenophorae Radix)
• Sha Yuan Ji Li (Astragali complanati Semen)
• Shan Dou Gen (Sophorae tonkinensis Radix)
• Shan Yao (Dioscoreae Rhizoma)
• Shan Zha (Crataegi Fructus)
• Shan Zhu Yu (Corni Fructus)
• She Chuang Zi (Cnidii Fructus)
• She Gan (Belamcandae Rhizoma)
• Shen Qu (Massa medicata Fermantata)
• Sheng Di Huang (Rehmanniae Radix)
• Sheng Jiang (Zingiberis Rhizoma recens)
• Sheng Jiang Pi (Zingiberis Rhizomatis Cortex)
• Sheng Ma (Cimicifugae Rhizoma)
• Shi Chang Pu (Acori tatarinowii Rhizoma)
• Shi Gao (Gypsum fibrosum)
• Shi Hu (Dendrobii Herba)
• Shi Jue Ming (Haliotidis Concha)
• Shi Wei (Pyrrosiae Folium)
• Shu Di Huang (Rehmanniae Radix preparata)
• Shui Niu Jiao (Bubali Cornu)
• Suan Zao Ren (Ziziphi spinosae Semen)
• Suo Yang (Cynomorii Herba)
• Tai Zi Shen (Pseudostellariae Radix)
• Tan Xiang (Santi albi Lignum)
• Tao Ren (Persicae Semen)
• Tian Hua Fen (Trichosanthis Radix)
• Tian Ma (Gastrodiae Rhizoma)
• Tian Men Dong (Asparagi Radix)
• Tian Nan Xing (Arisaematis Rhizoma)
• Tong Cao (Tetrapanacis Medulla)
• Tu Fu Ling (Smilacis glabrae Rhizoma)
• Tu Si Zi (Cuscutae Semen)
• Wang Bu Liu Xing (Vaccariae Semen)
• Wei Ling Xian (Clematidis Rhizoma)
• Wu Jia Pi (Acanthopanacis Cortex)
• Wu Mei (Mume Fructus)
• Wu Wei Zi (Schisandrae Fructus)
• Wu Yao (Linderae Radix)
• Wu Zhu Yu (Evodiae Fructus)
• Xi Xian Cao (Siegesbeckiae Herba)
• Xi Yang Shen (Panacis Quinquefolii Radix)
• Xia Ku Cao (Prunellae Spica)
• Xian He Cao (Agrimoniae Herba)
• Xian Mao (Curculiginis Rhizoma)
• Xiang Fu (Cyperi Rhizoma)
• Xiang Ru (Moslae Herba)
• Xiao Hui Xiang (Foeniculi Fructus)
• Xiao Ji (Cirsii Herba)
• Xie Bai (Allii macrostemi Bulbus)
• Xin Yi Hua (Magnoliae Flos)
• Xing Ren (Armeniacae Semen)
• Xu Duan (Dipsaci Radix)
• Xuan Fu Hua (Inulae Flos)
• Xuan Shen (Scrophulariae Radix)
• Yan Hu Suo (Corydalis Rhizoma)
• Ye Jiao Teng (Polygoni multiflori Caulis)
• Ye Ju Hua (Chrysanthemi indici Flos)
• Yi Mu Cao (Leonuri Herba)
• Yi Tang (Maltosum)
• Yi Yi Ren (Coicis Semen)
• Yi Zhi Ren (Alpiniae oxyphyllae Fructus)
• Yin Chen (Artemisiae scopariae Herba)
• Yin Yang Huo (Epimedii Herba)
• Yu Jin (Curcumae Radix)
• Yu Xing Cao (Houttuyniae Herba)
• Yuan Zhi (Polygalae Radix)
• Ze Lan (Lycopi Herba)
• Ze Xie (Alismatis Rhizoma)
• Zhe Bei Mu (Fritillariae thunbergii Bulbus)
• Zhen Zhu (Margarita)
• Zhi Gan Cao (Glycyrrhizae Radix preparata)
• Zhi Ke (Aurantii Fructus)
• Zhi Mu (Anemarrhenae Radix)
• Zhi Shi (Aurantii Fructus immaturus)
• Zhi Zi (Gardeniae Fructus)
• Zhu Ling (Polyporus)
• Zhu Ru (Bambusae Caulis in taeniam)
• Zi Su Ye (Perillae Folium)
• Zi Su Zi (Perillae Fructus)
• Zi Wan (Asteris Radix)
Appendix B: Chinese Herbal Formulas
Please Note: The exam will focus on, but may not be exclusively limited to, the herbal formulas listed below. Formulas not on this list may still appear on the exam as distractors (incorrect answers). Candidates are also responsible for being familiar with all formulas that are mentioned in the content outline.
• Ba Zhen Tang (Eight-Treasure Decoction)
• Ba Zheng San (Eight-Herb Powder for Rectification)
• Bai He Gu Jin Tang (Lily Bulb Decoction to Preserve the Metal)
• Bai Hu Tang (White Tiger Decoction)
• Bai Tou Weng Tang (Pulsatilla Decoction)
• Ban Xia Bai Zhu Tian Ma Tang (Pinellia, Atractylodis Macrocephalae, and Gastrodia Decoction)
• Ban Xia Hou Po Tang (Pinellia and Magnolia Bark Decoction)
• Ban Xia Xie Xin Tang (Pinellia Decoction to Drain the Epigastrium)
• Bao He Wan (Preserve Harmony Pill)
• Bei Mu Gua Lou San (Fritillaria and Trichosanthes Fruit Powder)
• Bi Xie Feng Qing Yin (Dioscorea Hypoglauca Decoction to Separate the Clear)
• Bu Yang Huan Wu Tang (Tonify the Yang to Restore Five (Tenths) Decoction)
• Bu Zhong Yi Qi Tang (Tonify the Middle and Augment the Qi Decoction)
• Cang Er Zi San (Xanthium Powder)
• Chai Ge Jie Ji Tang (Bupleurum and Kudzu Decoction)
• Chai Hu Shu Gan San (Bupleurum Powder to Spread the Liver)
• Chuan Xiong Cha Tiao San (Ligusticum Chuanxiong Powder to be Taken with Green Tea)
• Da Bu Yin Wan (Great Tonify the Yin Pill)
• Da Chai Hu Tang (Major Bupleurum Decoction)
• Da Cheng Qi Tang (Major Order the Qi Decoction)
• Da Jian Zhong Tang (Major Construct the Middle Decoction)
• Da Huang Mu Dan Tang (Rhubarb and Moutan Decoction)
• Dan Shen Yin (Salvia Drink)
• Dang Gui Bu Xue Tang (Tangkuei Decoction to Tonify the Blood)
• Dang Gui Liu Huang Tang (Tangkuei and Six-Yellow Decoction)
• Dang Gui Si Ni Tang (Tangkuei Decoction for Frigid Extremities)
• Dao Chi San (Guide Out the Red Powder)
• Ding Chuan Tang (Arrest Wheezing Decoction)
• Du Huo Ji Sheng Tang (Angelica Pubescens and Sangjisheng Decoction)
• Du Qi Wan (Capital Qi Pill)
• Er Chen Tang (Two-Cured Decoction)
• Er Miao San (Two-Marvel Powder)
• Er Xian Tang (Two-Immortal Decoction)
• Er Zhi Wan (Two-Ultimate Pill)
• Fang Feng Tong Sheng San (Ledebouriella Powder That Sagely Unblocks)
• Fu Yuan Huo Xue Tang (Revive Health by Invigorating the Blood Decoction)
• Gan Mai Da Zao Tang (Licorice, Wheat, and Jujube Decoction)
• Ge Gen Huang Lian Huang Qin Tang (Kudzu, Coptis, and Scutellaria Decoction)
• Ge Gen Tang (Kudzu Decoction)
• Ge Xia Zhu Yu Tang (Drive Out Blood Stasis Below the Diaphragm Decoction)
• Gu Jing Wan (Stabilize the Menses Pill)
• Gui Pi Tang (Restore the Spleen Decoction)
• Gui Zhi Fu Ling Wan (Cinnamon Twig and Poria Pill)
• Gui Zhi Shao Yao Zhi Mu Tang (Cinnamon Twig, Peony, and Anemarrhena Decoction)
• Gui Zhi Tang (Cinnamon Twig Decoction)
• Huai Hua San (Sophora Japonica Flower Powder)
• Huang Lian E Jiao Tang (Coptis and Ass-Hide Gelatin Decoction)
• Huang Lian Jie Du Tang (Coptis Decoction to Relieve Toxicity)
• Huo Xiang Zheng Qi San (Agastache Powder to Rectify the Qi)
• Ji Chuan Jian (Benefit the River (Flow) Decoction)
• Jia Jian Wei Rui Tang (Modified Solomon’s Seal Decoction)
• Jia Wei Xiao Yao San (Augmented Rambling Powder)
• Jiao Ai Tang (Ass-Hide Gelatin and Mugwort Decoction)
• Jin Gui Shen Qi Wan (Kidney Qi Pill from the Golden Cabinet)
• Jin Ling Zi San (Melia Toosendan Powder)
• Jin Suo Gu Jing Wan (Metal Lock Pill to Stabilize the Essence)
• Ju Pi Zhu Ru Tang (Tangerine Peel and Bamboo Shavings Decoction)
• Juan Bi Tang (Remove Painful Obstructions from Awakening of the Mind in Medical Studies)
• Li Zhong Wan (Regulate the Middle Pill)
• Liang Fu Wan (Galangal and Cyperus Pill)
• Liang Ge San (Cool the Diaphragm Powder)
• Ling Gui Zhu Gan Tang (Poria, Cinnamon Twig, Atractylodis Macrocephalae and Licorice Decoction)
• Liu Jun Zi Tang (Six Gentlemen Decoction)
• Liu Wei Di Huang Wan (Six-Ingredient Pill with Rehmannia)
• Liu Yi San (Six-to-One Powder)
• Long Dan Xie Gan Tang (Gentiana Longdancao Decoction to Drain the Liver)
• Ma Huang Tang (Ephedra Decoction)
• Ma Xing Shi Gan Tang (Ephedra, Apricot Kernel, Gypsum and Licorice Decoction)
• Ma Zi Ren Wan (Hemp Seed Pill)
• Mai Men Dong Tang (Ophiopogonis Decoction)
• Mu Li San (Oyster Shell Powder)
• Nuan Gan Jian (Warm the Liver Decoction)
• Ping Wei San (Calm the Stomach Powder)
• Pu Ji Xiao Du Yin (Universal Benefit Decoction to Eliminate Toxin)
• Qi Ju Di Huang Wan (Lycium Fruit, Chrysanthemum and Rehmannia Pill)
• Qiang Huo Sheng Shi Tang (Notopterygium Decoction to Overcome Dampness)
• Qing Wei San (Clear the Stomach Powder)
• Qing Gu San (Cool the Bones Powder)
• Qing Hao Bie Jia Tang (Artemisia Annua and Soft-Shelled Turtle Shell Decoction)
• Qing Qi Hua Tan Wan (Clear the Qi and Transform Phlegm Pill)
• Qing Wen Bai Du San (Clear Epidemics and Overcome Toxicity Decoction)
• Qing Ying Tang (Clear the Nutritive Level Decoction)
• Qing Zao Jiu Fei Tang (Eliminate Dryness and Rescue the Lungs Decoction)
• Ren Shen Bai Du San (Ginseng Powder to Overcome Pathogenic Influences)
• Run Chang Wan (Moisten the Intestines Pill from Master Shen’s Book)
• San Ren Tang (Three Nut Decoction)
• San Zi Yang Qin Tang (Three-Seed Decoction to Nourish One’s Parents)
• Sang Ju Yin (Mulberry Leaf and Chrysanthemum Decoction)
• Sang Piao Xiao San (Mantis Egg-Case Powder)
• Sang Xing Tang (Mulberry Leaf and Apricot Kernel Decoction)
• Shao Fu Zhu Yu Tang (Drive Out Blood Stasis in the Lower Abdomen Decoction)
• Shao Yao Gan Cao Tang (Peony and Licorice Decoction)
• Shao Yao Tang (Peony Decoction)
• Shen Fu Tang (Ginseng and Aconite Accessory Root Decoction)
• Shen Ling Bai Zhu San (Ginseng, Poria and Atractylodes Macrocephala Powder)
• Shen Tong Zhu Yu Tang (Drive Out Blood Stasis from a Painful Body Decoction)
• Sheng Hua Tang (Generation and Transformation Decoction)
• Sheng Mai San (Generate the Pulse Powder)
• Sheng Ma Ge Gen Tang (Cimicifuga and Kudzu Decoction)
• Shi Hui San (Ten Partially-Charred Substance Powder)
• Shi Pi Yin (Bolster the Spleen Decoction)
• Shi Quan Da Bu Tang (All Inclusive Great Tonifying Decoction)
• Shi Xiao San (Sudden Smile Powder)
• Shou Tai Wan (Fetus Longevity Pill)
• Si Jun Zi Tang (Four-Gentlemen Decoction)
• Si Ni San (Frigid Extremities Powder)
• Si Ni Tang (Frigid Extremities Decoction)
• Si Shen Wan (Four-Miracle Pill)
• Si Wu Tang (Four-Substance Decoction)
• Su Zi Jiang Qi Tang (Perilla Fruit Decoction for Directing Qi Downward)
• Suan Zao Ren Tang (Sour Jujube Decoction)
• Tai Shan Pan Shi San (Powder that Gives the Stability of Mount Tai)
• Tao He Cheng Qi Tang (Peach Pit Decoction to Order the Qi)
• Tian Ma Gou Teng Yin (Gastrodia and Uncaria Decoction)
• Tian Tai Wu Yao San (Top-quality Lindera Powder)
• Tian Wang Bu Xin Dan (Emperor of Heaven’s Special Pill to Tonify the Heart)
• Tiao Wei Cheng Qi Tang (Regulate the Stomach and Order the Qi Decoction)
• Tong Xie Yao Fang (Important Formula for Painful Diarrhea)
• Wan Dai Tang (End Discharge Decoction)
• Wei Jing Tang (Reed Decoction)
• Wen Dan Tang (Warm the Gallbladder Decoction)
• Wen Jing Tang (Warm the Menses Decoction)
• Wu Ling San (Five-Ingredient Powder with Poria)
• Wu Pi San (Five-Peel Powder)
• Wu Wei Xiao Du Yin (Five-Ingredient Decoction to Eliminate Toxin)
• Wu Zhu Yu Tang (Evodia Decoction)
• Xiang Su San (Cyperus and Perilla Leaf Powder)
• Xiao Chai Hu Tang (Minor Bupleurum Decoction)
• Xiao Cheng Qi Tang (Minor Order the Qi Decoction)
• Xiao Feng San (Eliminate Wind Powder from Orthodox Lineage)
• Xiao Huo Luo Dan (Minor Invigorate the Collaterals Special Pill)
• Xiao Ji Yin Zi (Cephalanoplos Decoction)
• Xiao Jian Zhong Tang (Minor Construct the Middle Decoction)
• Xiao Qing Long Tang (Minor Blue-Green Dragon Decoction)
• Xiao Yao San (Rambling Powder)
• Xie Bai San (Drain the White Powder)
• Xie Huang San (Drain the Yellow Powder)
• Xie Xin Tang (Drain the Epigastrium Decoction)
• Xing Su San (Apricot Kernel and Perilla Leaf Powder)
• Xuan Fu Dai Zhe Tang (Inula and Hematite Decoction)
• Xue Fu Zhu Yu Tang (Drive Out Stasis in the Mansion of Blood Decoction)
• Yang He Tang (Balmy Yang Decoction)
• Yi Guan Jian (Linking Decoction)
• Yin Chen Hao Tang (Artemisia Yinchenhao Decoction)
• Yin Qiao San (Honeysckle and Forsythia Powder)
• You Gui Wan (Restore the Right (Kidney) Pill)
• You Gui Yin (Restore the Right (Kidney) Decoction)
• Yu Nu Jian (Jade Woman Decoction)
• Yu Ping Feng San (Jade Windscreen Powder)
• Yue Ju Wan (Escape Restraint Pill)
• Zeng Ye Tang (Increase the Fluids Decoction)
• Zhen Gan Xi Feng Tang (Sedate the Liver and Extinguish Wind Decoction)
• Zhen Ren Yang Zang Tang (True Man’s Decoction to Nourish the Organs)
• Zhen Wu Tang (True Warrior Decoction)
• Zhi Bai Di Huang Wan (Anemarrhena, Phellodendron and Rehmannia Pill)
• Zhi Gan Cao Tang (Honey-Fried Licorice Decoction)
• Zhi Sou San (Stop Coughing Powder)
• Zhu Ling Tang (Polyporus Decoction)
• Zhu Ye Shi Gao Tang (Lophatherus and Gypsum Decoction)
• Zuo Gui Wan (Restore the Left (Kidney) Pill)
• Zuo Gui Yin (Restore the Left (Kidney) Decoction)
• Zuo Jin Wan (Left Metal Pill)
The Biomedicine Content Outline
Domain I: Biomedical Model (80% of Exam)
A. Clinical application of biomedical sciences (e.g., anatomy, physiology, athology, pathophysiology), pharmacology, and nutrients and supplements (25%)
1. Biomedical sciences
a. Differentiate normal and abnormal structures and
functions of body systems from a biomedical perspective
b. Recognize signs, symptoms, and morbidities associated
with common medical conditions
2. Pharmacology (Refer to Appendix A: Pharmaceuticals)
a. Identify functional classifications, mechanisms,
side and adverse effects related to pharmaceutical categories
b. Identify routes of administration (e.g., intravenous, oral, subcutaneous)
c. Demonstrate knowledge of the effects of the use of tobacco, alcohol, and drugs of abuse
d. Identify clinically significant pharmaceutical-supplement interactions
3. Nutrients and supplements (Refer to Appendix B: Nutrients and Supplements)
a. Identify major classifications, known actions, and potential adverse effects related to commonly used nutrients and
supplements
b. Recognize signs and symptoms associated with abnormal
levels of commonly used nutrients and supplements
B. Patient history and physical examination (20%)
1. Patient history (e.g., chief complaint, allergies, medical history, personal and family history)
a. Conduct a medical interview to obtain patient history
b. Organize information obtained during interview into appropriate sections of the patient history
2. Physical examination
a. Recognize how each portion of the physical examination is performed
b. Identify the components and clinical significance of a general systems examination (e.g., vital signs, pulmonary, cardiovascular, gastrointestinal)
i. Identify relevant examination techniques such as observation, auscultation, and palpation as applied to each system
ii. Recognize how each portion of the general systems
examination is performed
iii. Identify the clinically significant findings obtained from a general systems examination
c. Identify the components and clinical significance of a musculoskeletal examination
i. Identify relevant examination techniques (e.g., range of motion, muscle strength testing, and special tests including orthopedic tests)
ii. Recognize how each portion of a musculoskeletal examination is performed
iii. Identify the clinically significant findings obtained from a musculoskeletal examination
d. Identify the components and clinical significance of a neurological examination
i. Identify relevant examination techniques (e.g., assessment of cognitive function, evaluation of cranial nerves, sensory and motor function, dermatomal testing, and reflexes)
ii. Recognize how neurological examinations are performed
iii. Identify the clinically significant findings obtained from a neurological examination
3. Medical imaging, laboratory tests, and other diagnostic tests
a. Medical imaging
i. Recognize the indications for common medical imaging (e.g., x-ray, MRI, CT, PET, colonoscopy, cystoscopy, bronchoscopy)
ii. Recognize the clinical significance of information from medical imaging
b. Laboratory tests
i. Recognize the indications for common laboratory tests (e.g., complete blood count, basic metabolic panel, thyroid panel)
ii. Recognize the clinical significance of abnormal findings for medical laboratory tests
c. Other diagnostic tests
i. Recognize the indications for common diagnostic tests (e.g., EMG, EKG)
ii. Recognize the clinical significance of information gathered from diagnostic tests
C. Clinical assessment process (Refer to Appendix C: Medical Conditions) (30%)
1. Recognize abnormalities in the functions of the body systems (e.g., respiratory, cardiovascular, urogenital, reproductive, nervous)
2. Recognize the clinical significance of normal and abnormal findings
3. Recognize typical presentations of commonly encountered medical conditions
4. Recognize commonly encountered red flags/ominous signs (e.g., signs of stroke, heart attack, suicidal ideation, domestic abuse, trauma)
D. Clinical decision-making and standard of care (5%)
1. Recognize medical conditions that may be treated without referral
2. Recognize medical conditions that require co-management
3. Recognize medical conditions that require a referral
4. Differentiate the most appropriate type of referral: emergent = immediate, urgent = 24-48 hours, or routine = 48 hours – 7 days
5. Recognize the conventional biomedical prognoses, management, and/or standard of care for common medical conditions
Domain II:Safety and Professional Responsibilities (20% of Exam)
A. Risk management and safety
1. Recognize situations that require special care or emergency management (e.g., burns, seizures, falls, anaphylaxis)
2. Implement emergency protocols in practice (e.g., contacting emergency services)
3. Recognize the purpose of professional insurances (e.g., general liability, malpractice insurance)
B. Infection control
1. Recognize common communicable diseases (e.g., influenza, hepatitis, HIV, tuberculosis)
2. Identify modes of transmission of common communicable diseases (e.g., airborne, fecal oral)
3. Recognize and apply universal precautions
4. Manage hazardous situations (e.g., coughing, bleeding, vomiting)
C. Federal regulations
1. Demonstrate knowledge of Occupational Safety and Health Administration (OSHA) and other federal health agencies’ requirements
2. Demonstrate knowledge of Health Insurance Portability and Accountability Act (HIPAA) requirements
D. Reporting and record-keeping
1. Maintain and release patient medical records in accordance with federal and state regulations
2. Recognize and respond to mandated reportable conditions (e.g., elder and child abuse, infectious diseases, bioterrorism)
3. Recognize the purpose of medical coding (e.g., ICD, CPT, E&M codes)
4. Utilize medical coding (e.g., ICD, CPT, E&M codes)
E. Ethics and professionalism
1. Demonstrate knowledge of professional ethical standards (e.g., conflict of interest, negligence, boundary violations, scope of practice)
2. Provide informed consent related to patient care
3. Communicate professionally with patients, the public, and other health care providers
F. Integration of acupuncture and Chinese medicine with biomedicine
1. Communicate the differences and commonalities between acupuncture and Chinese medicine and biomedicine (e.g., correlation of diagnostic categories, differences in uses of organ systems)
2. Explain acupuncture and Chinese medicine concepts using biomedical terminology for health care providers, patients, and the public
Appendix A: Pharmaceuticals
The exam will focus on but may not be exclusively limited to the
list below.
• allergy/sinus medications
• analgesic medications
• anti-angina medications
• anti-anxiety medications
• antiasthmatic medications
• antibacterial medications
• anticancer medications
• anticoagulant medications
• antidementia medications
• antidepressants
• antidiabetic medications
• antidiarrheal medications
• antifungal medications
• antihyperlipidemic medications
• antihypertension medications
• antinausea medications
• anti-Parkinson medications
• antipsychotics
• antiseizure medications
• antiviral medications
• birth control medications
• cannabinoids
• central nervous system (CNS) stimulants/attention deficit medications
• cough medications
• dermatological medications
• drugs of abuse
• fertility medications
• gastrointestinal medications
• hormonal replacement therapy
• immune modulators/biologics
• mood stabilizer medications
• non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs)
• opioids
• osteoporosis medications
• sexual dysfunction medications
• sleep medications
• smoking cessation medications
• steroids
• stool softeners/laxatives
• thyroid medications
• weight management medications
Appendix B: Nutrients and Supplements
The exam will focus on but may not be exclusively limited to the list below.
• amino acids (e.g., L-glutamine, L-lysine, choline)
• anabolic supplements (e.g., creatine)
• antioxidants (e.g., coenzyme Q10, selenium)
• bone/joint health (e.g., glucosamine sulfate, chondroitin sulfate)
• digestive support (e.g., enzymes, probiotics)
• energy support (e.g., ashwagandha, guarana)
• essential fatty acids (e.g., fish oils)
• herbal supplements (e.g., saw palmetto, valerian, turmeric)
• homeopathic remedies (e.g. arnica, nux vomica)
• hormonal support (e.g., melatonin, wild yam, DHEA)
• minerals (e.g., calcium, magnesium, potassium)
• mood support (e.g., St. John’s Wort, SAMe, 5-HTP)
• sexual function support (e.g., yohimbe)
• vitamins (e.g., A, B1-B12, C, D, E, K)
Appendix C: Medical Conditions
The exam will focus on but may not be exclusively limited to the conditions below.
Cardiovascular conditions
• Aneurysm
• Angina pectoris
• Arrhythmia (e.g., atrial fibrillation, premature ventricular contraction, tachycardia)
• Atherosclerosis (e.g., coronary artery disease, peripheral vascular disease)
• Blood pressure disorders (hypertension and hypotension)
• Congestive heart failure
• Deep vein thrombosis
• Myocardial infarction
• Raynaud’s phenomenon
Dermatological conditions
• Burns
• Contagious skin conditions (e.g., lice, fungal infections, scabies)
• Noncontagious skin conditions (e.g., cellulitis, acne, eczema, alopecia)
Endocrine and Metabolic conditions
• Adrenal disorders (e.g., Cushing’s, Addison’s)
• Diabetes Type I
• Hyperlipidemia
• Metabolic syndrome/insulin resistance (e.g., Diabetes Type 2)
• Parathyroid disorders
• Pituitary disorders
• Thyroid disorders (e.g., Hashimoto’s thyroiditis, Graves’ disease)
Gastrointestinal conditions
• Appendicitis
• Cirrhosis
• Diverticular disease (e.g., diverticulosis, diverticulitis)
• Food sensitivity/allergies (e.g., celiac disease, lactose intolerance)
• Gallbladder conditions (e.g., cholelithiasis, cholecystitis)
• Gastritis
• Gastroesophageal reflux disease (GERD)
• Hemorrhoids
• Hepatitis
• Inflammatory bowel disease (e.g., Crohn’s disease, ulcerative colitis)
• Irritable bowel syndrome (IBS)
• Pancreatitis
• Peptic ulcer (e.g., H. pylori, Campylobacter)
Hematological conditions
• Bleeding and coagulation disorders
• Disorders of platelets (e.g., thrombocytopenia)
• Disorders of red blood cells (e.g., anemia, polycythemia)
• Disorders of white blood cells (e.g., neutropenia)
• Hemochromatosis
Infectious diseases
• Bacterial infections (e.g., staph, strep, MRSA, impetigo)
• Foodborne illness
• Lyme Disease
• Parasitic infections
• Sexually transmitted infections
• Tuberculosis
• Viral infections (e.g., measles, mumps, influenza)
Mental and Behavioral conditions
• Addictions
• Anxiety disorders
• Attention Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder (ADHD)
• Autism spectrum
• Eating disorders (e.g., anorexia nervosa, bulimia nervosa)
• Mood disorders (e.g., depression, bi-polar disorder)
• Post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD)
• Suicidality
Musculoskeletal conditions
• Acute traumatic injuries
• Affecting lower extremities (e.g., meniscal injuries)
• Affecting the axial structures (e.g., disc herniation, TMJD)
• Affecting upper extremities (e.g., frozen shoulder)
• Bone density disorders
• Osteoarthritis
Neurological conditions
• Bell’s palsy
• Concussion and traumatic brain injury (TBI)
• Dementia (e.g., Alzheimer’s disease)
• Epilepsy
• Headache (e.g., cluster, tension, migraine)
• Multiple sclerosis (MS)
• Parkinson’s disease
• Peripheral neuropathy
• Post-herpetic neuralgia
• Radiculopathies (e.g., sciatica)
• Stroke
• Transient ischemic attack (TIA)
• Trigeminal neuralgia
• Vertigo
Oncological conditions
• Cancer (e.g., organs, blood, bone, skin)
• Side effects secondary to cancer treatment (e.g., nausea, pain)
Ophthalmic and Ear, Nose and Throat conditions
• Conditions of the eye (e.g., macular degeneration, conjunctivitis)
• Conditions of the ear (e.g., otitis media, tinnitus)
• Conditions of the nose and throat (e.g., strep throat, sinusitis, allergic rhinitis)
Pulmonary conditions
• Asthma
• Respiratory tract infections (e.g., bronchitis, pneumonia)
• Pneumothorax
• Chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD)
Reproductive conditions
• Menstrual and uterine disorders (e.g.,dysmenorrhea, endometriosis, fibroids)
• Female infertility [e.g., polycystic ovarian syndrome (PCOS)]
• Menopausal disorders
• Pregnancy (normal and with complications)
• Perinatal support (e.g., labor preparation, postpartum)
• Breast conditions (e.g., lumps, mastitis)
• Male infertility and erectile dysfunction (ED)
• Prostate conditions [e.g., benign prostatic hyperplasia (BPH), prostatitis]
Urinary/Renal conditions
• Kidney stones
• Infections (e.g., UTI, cystitis, pyelonephritis)
• Incontinence
• Dysuria (e.g., painful urination, retention)
Miscellaneous
• Multi-system conditions (e.g., chronic fatigue, fibromyalgia, temporal arteritis)
• Autoimmune disorders [e.g., systemic lupus erythematosus (SLE), heumatoid arthritis (RA)]
• Sleep disorders (e.g., narcolepsy, sleep apnea, insomnia)