Section 101 - Definitions. - Maryland Statutes

§ 1A-101. Definitions.
 

(a)  In general.- In this title the following words have the meanings indicated. 

(b)  Acupuncture.- "Acupuncture" means a form of health care, based on a theory of energetic physiology, that describes the interrelationship of the body organs or functions with an associated point or combination of points. 

(c)  Auricular detoxification.- "Auricular detoxification" means an acupuncture technique involving the needling of the external auricle of the human ear for the purpose of assisting a person who is undergoing detoxification to remove addictive substances from the body and restoring health. 

(d)  Board.- "Board" means the State Acupuncture Board. 

(e)  License.- "License" means, unless the context requires otherwise, a license issued by the Board to practice acupuncture. 

(f)  Practice acupuncture.-  

(1) "Practice acupuncture" means the use of oriental medical therapies for the purpose of normalizing energetic physiological functions including pain control, and for the promotion, maintenance, and restoration of health. 

(2) "Practice acupuncture" includes: 

(i) Stimulation of points of the body by the insertion of acupuncture needles; 

(ii) The application of moxibustion; and 

(iii) Manual, mechanical, thermal, or electrical therapies only when performed in accordance with the principles of oriental acupuncture medical theories. 

(g)  Supervision.- "Supervision" means: 

(1) A formalized professional relationship between a licensed acupuncturist and an individual performing auricular detoxification that provides evaluation and direction of the individual to adequately ensure the safety and welfare of clients during the course of treatment; and 

(2) As defined by the Board in regulations: 

(i) Periodic direct supervision where the licensed acupuncturist is present or on-site during treatment; and 

(ii) General supervision where the licensed acupuncturist is neither present nor on-site during treatment. 
 

[1994, ch. 620, § 1; 2001, ch. 317; 2004, ch. 57.]