These criteria assess whether clinics comply with professional guidelines and regulations, ensuring the safety and quality of their services. We evaluate the variety of services available and the expertise provided by their acupuncturists, as these factors can serve as useful indicators of comprehensive and integrative care. We also look for any unique acupuncture styles offered by the clinic.
The clinical criteria are based on the standards and practices set by the primary governing health college for acupuncture clinics, namely the College of Acupuncturists of Alberta. Clinics regulated by different health disciplines, associations, or lacking regulation are excluded from assessment based on this key criterion.
To determine referral pathways, it is crucial to identify the unique service lines or specialty areas offered by the clinics.