“Are we there yet?” – Green shoots of progress in acupuncture implementation in healthcare

Despite a growing body of research and clinical guidelines advocating for acupuncture, its adoption in healthcare systems remains limited. This manuscript explores the considerable gap between evidence-based recommendations for acupuncture and its implementation, while providing practical examples of collaborative and integrative use of acupuncture in healthcare settings in the UK, USA, and Austria. We aim to inspire and provide guidance for those seeking to replicate these successful initiatives and drive the integration of acupuncture in their own healthcare settings.

Narrative accounts of the experience of three clinician-researchers delivering acupuncture within mainstream healthcare systems in the UK, USA, and Austria respectively were captured. These are presented as standalone exemplars of the integration of acupuncture in real-world settings from the perspective of embedded professionals. Each of the three contributors explores and discusses the challenges faced and opportunities presented in their specific setting, as well as lessons learned in the process which may be more widely transferable. The collective relevance of these three narratives may extend beyond the individual settings, serving as possible blueprints and stimulating further professional discourse and innovation.

In the UK, thanks to a unique collaborative environment, research has provided a platform for the implementation of long-running, sustainable acupuncture services in the National Health Service. In the USA, the provision of acupuncture in a hospital setting is supported by an emphasis on communication and comprehensive multidisciplinary approach to integrative care, aided by the use of electronic medical records. In Austria, acupuncture is predominantly administered by medical doctors and its integration is attributed to evidence-based discussions with patients and caregivers within the hospital setting. These green shoots of acupuncture provision within healthcare systems in three different countries bridge the translational gap between guidelines and delivery, shedding light on the multi-faceted aspects of acupuncture implementation.

Concerted efforts focusing on education, dissemination, and fostering bidirectional communication between acupuncture research and clinical practice are essential for moving beyond the principle of “It Seemed Like A Good Idea At The Time” in acupuncture service provision, and consequently supporting the integration and implementation of acupuncture in healthcare systems utilising existing guidelines.