Acupuncturist

Acupuncturist (Part-Time, 19 Hours Weekly – Non-Benefits Eligible)

The Acupuncturist at MD Anderson plays a vital role in delivering evidence-based inpatient and outpatient acupuncture services to support the overall well-being of cancer patients. This position ensures medically safe practices, compliance with institutional policies, and contributes to a multidisciplinary care approach. In addition to clinical responsibilities, the role may involve patient education, participation in research initiatives, and collaboration with healthcare professionals to advance integrative oncology care.

Ideal Candidate Statement
The ideal candidate is a licensed acupuncturist with at least two years of clinical experience, preferably in an academic or healthcare setting. They possess a strong understanding of clinical operations, infection control, and patient safety protocols. This individual demonstrates excellent communication skills to educate patients and collaborate effectively with a multidisciplinary team. NCCAOM board certification, prior research experience, and familiarity with cancer care terminology are highly desirable. The candidate should be committed to evidence-based practice, comfortable participating in program evaluations and research activities, and able to maintain accurate documentation and billing. Additional language skills, such as Spanish, and a passion for patient-centered care are a plus.

The primary purpose of the Acupuncturist position is to provide evidence-based inpatient and outpatient acupuncture services to MD Anderson patients upon appropriate referral. Ensure medically safe practices and compliance with all center and institutional policies.
 

Salary Range: Minimum $38,950 | Midpoint $48,687 | Maximum $58,425

JOB SPECIFIC COMPETENCIES

Clinical Responsibilities
Ensures a safe environment, maintains equipment and supplies in a clean, operable and safe manner, and follows center and institutional safety guidelines.
Reports status of supplies/inventory to designated center personnel.
Wears appropriate attire or lab coat during practice.
Accurately verifies the physician's clearance order for acupuncture.
Reviews chart for contraindications/precautions for treatment and, if present, reports to physician/nurse before procedure.
Administers and evaluates patient questionnaires.
Reviews and assesses medical history.
Explains procedure to patient and obtains consent when needed.
Assists patients in positioning or getting on/off table if needed.
Performs physical exam and reviews symptoms pertinent to procedure.
Keeps patient comfortable and maintains proper draping at all times.
Prepares skin using standardized clean needling technique.
Observes/assesses patient for any unexpected and/or undesirable physical/emotional reactions, suspends treatment, provides appropriate intervention, reports to physician/nurse, and documents adverse events as indicated.
Develops a plan of care including treatment goals for each visit.
Adheres to all hospital and departmental policies.
Maintains infection control policies at all times.
Documents and bills in an accurate and timely manner.
Attends and contributes to interdisciplinary team meetings as schedule allows and actively participate in discussion including presentation of patient cases.
Participates in program evaluation processes and committee meetings as requested.
Other duties as assigned.

Research-related activities
Familiar with recent research regarding acupuncture, especially in cancer care. May participate in clinical research including the design and implementation of studies, patient enrollment in clinical trials, data analysis, and writing of manuscripts. Administers questionnaires per center guidelines.

Education
Communicates clearly with patients about commonly used techniques for acupuncture therapy and reasons for their use. Discusses with the patient the risks and benefits of acupuncture and obtains signed informed consent prior to treatment. Educates other healthcare professionals about acupuncture by providing lectures and mentoring individuals in clinic. Participates in outreach programs, conferences, retreats, and other activities as part of program offerings.

MD Anderson Cancer Center’s main campus is located in the Texas Medical Center in Houston, which serves as the hub for inpatient and outpatient care, research, and education. In addition to the main campus, MD Anderson offers several Houston-area locations for convenient access to care, including:
League City – Provides multidisciplinary cancer care closer to patients in the Bay Area.
Sugar Land – Offers outpatient services and specialized cancer treatment for Fort Bend County residents.
West Houston/Katy – Delivers comprehensive cancer care and infusion services for patients in the western suburbs.
The Woodlands – Serves patients in North Houston with advanced oncology services.
These regional centers are designed to bring MD Anderson’s world-class cancer care closer to communities while maintaining access to the expertise and resources of the main campus.

MISSION STATEMENT
The mission of The University of Texas MD Anderson Cancer Center is to eliminate cancer in Texas, the nation, and the world through outstanding programs that integrate patient care, research and prevention, and through education for undergraduate and graduate students, trainees, professionals, employees and the public. The University of Texas MD Anderson Cancer Center in Houston is one of the world's most respected centers focused on cancer patient care, research, education and prevention. It was named the nation's No. 1 hospital for cancer care in U.S. News & World Report’s 2021-2022 rankings. It is one of the nation's original three comprehensive cancer centers designated by the National Cancer Institute.