Professional representation serving medical acupuncturists
Complementing the work of the ABMA, the Professional Union of Belgian Medical Acupuncturists (UPMAB) represents the professional interests of physicians practicing medical acupuncture. It addresses issues related to the practice of the profession and the quality of training
and the evolution of the recognition framework for acupuncture in Belgium. Its work is driven by a commitment to ensuring rigorous medical practice, based on recognized training and performed by qualified physicians.
The missions of the UPMAB
The Professional Union acts as a representative for medical acupuncturists on issues concerning the practice of their profession.
Its work is based on three complementary missions that help structure and gain recognition for the practice of medical acupuncture.
Defending the profession
The UPMAB represents the common interests of medical acupuncturists before institutions and the various bodies concerned with the practice of the profession. It contributes to discussions regarding the conditions for practicing medical acupuncture in Belgium.
Defining competency criteria
The Professional Union participates in defining competency criteria based on high-quality specialized medical training. It advocates for the practice of acupuncture to be reserved for physicians who have acquired the necessary knowledge.
Contribute to the recognition of medical acupuncture
The UPMAB works towards the official recognition of medical acupuncture and the status of the medical acupuncturist in order to promote a clear and rigorous professional framework.
Who can become a member?
The Professional Union primarily brings together doctors practicing in Belgium who have completed specialized training in recognized acupuncture.
Access to the status of full member is reserved for doctors authorized to practice in Belgium and registered with the Order of Physicians. Candidates must have completed training in acupuncture recognized by the Professional Union.
Doctors with a different background may also apply for admission. Their application will be reviewed according to the procedures set out in the Union's statutes, based in particular on their experience, their work, or, where applicable, an entrance examination.
Frequently asked questions about the UPMAB
Find answers to the most common questions regarding the role of the UPMAB, its mission, and membership requirements.
What is the difference between the ABMA and the UPMAB?
The ABMA and the UPMAB have complementary roles. The ABMA develops training, research, dissemination of scientific knowledge and continuing education in medical acupuncture. The UPMAB acts as the representative organisation for physician-acupuncturists. It defends their professional interests, supports demanding competency criteria and participates in initiatives aimed at strengthening recognition of medical acupuncture in Belgium.
Why is a professional association important?
A professional association makes it possible to represent physician-acupuncturists collectively before the authorities, defend their professional interests and contribute to recognition of their practice.
It also supports competency criteria intended to promote rigorous medical practice by physicians who have completed specialised training.
Does the UPMAB organise training?
The UPMAB’s main role is the professional representation of physician-acupuncturists.
Training activities are organised by the ABMA, particularly through its Acupuncture School and continuing education programme.
Does ABMA membership automatically provide access to the UPMAB?
The ABMA and the UPMAB have complementary roles. The ABMA is active in areas including training, scientific exchange and association activities, while the UPMAB represents physician-acupuncturists professionally.
To find out which membership arrangements apply to both organisations, contact the ABMA secretariat.
Where can I find more information about the UPMAB?
The ABMA secretariat can answer questions about how the UPMAB operates, membership conditions, recognition criteria and training in medical acupuncture.
You can send your request via the website’s Contact page.
Become an ABMA member
Find out why many doctors choose to join the Belgian Association of Medical Acupuncturists and the benefits reserved for its members.