Pennsylvania’s Physician General declares: Acupuncture has a significant role to play as an alternative to opioids for patients with chronic pain.
Glenside, PA In a speech to the graduates of the Won Institute of Graduate Studies on Thursday, August 3rd, keynote speaker Dr. Rachel Levine M.D. addressed the prescription opioid and heroin overdose epidemic as the worst public health crisis in Pennsylvania affecting citizens across the state, from big cities to rural communities.
In her remarks, punctuated with applause from the graduates and guests, Dr. Levine emphasized, “Acupuncture has a significant role to play as an alternative to opioids for patients with chronic pain. We are currently revising our chronic, non-cancer pain treatment guidelines and we will be including acupuncture, as well as other techniques.”
Earlier this summer, the state’s Safe and Effective Prescribing Practices Task Force developed and adopted guidelines on the safe and effective use of opioids in the treatment of pain. This taskforce, formed by The Department of Health and the Department of Drug and Alcohol Programs, has taken significant steps to improve doctor prescribing practices. The task force, in conjunction with Governor Tom Wolf and the legislature, will be working with public health and public safety stakeholders to find solutions to the complex opioid crisis.
“As a doctor”, Dr. Levine noted, “I know the powerful benefits that acupuncture can bring to the lives of many. I also know how beneficial acupuncture can be from my own experience, and the experience of my family.”
The mission of the Won Institute is to provide quality, graduate-level professional education and training in the practical applications of spirituality and the healing arts for the well-being of individuals and society. It is the first and only accredited school in Pennsylvania to offer a Masters Degree in Acupuncture and a Certificate in Chinese Herbal Medicine. These ancient healing arts are becoming increasingly integrated into Western medical practices and are providing alternative choices for Pennsylvania citizens for their healthcare needs. As a commitment to public service, and in responding to the needs of distinct populations, the Institute provides acupuncture in community-based settings for veterans and those in recovery from addiction, with proven treatment strategies to alleviate PTSD and strengthen addiction recovery resolve.
For further information, please contact the Won Institute of Graduate Studies at 215-884-8942 x233 or at [email protected], or visit the website at www.woninstitute.edu.
Check out more photos below of our 2017 Commencement Ceremony
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