An Interview with Clinical Director Dr. Sarah Moon – Part I
Resilient Health Acupuncture & Wellness (RHA) stands out in the field of integrative medicine, not only for our patient-centered approach but also for its dedication to continuous professional development.
Under the guidance of clinical director Dr. Sarah Moon, DAcHM, L.Ac., Dipl.Ac., the clinic ensures that its team of acupuncturists remains at the forefront of acupuncture and Traditional Chinese Medicine (TCM) practices.
Dr. Moon, a licensed acupuncturist certified by the Maryland State Board and the National Certification Commission for Acupuncture and Oriental Medicine (NCCAOM) intrinsically understands the importance of continued education. Her impressive educational journey includes earning a Master of Science degree in Acupuncture and Oriental Medicine and a Doctor of Acupuncture and Herbal Medicine from the Virginia University of Integrative Medicine. Furthermore, her background in biological science from the University of Maryland, Baltimore County, further enhances her ability to integrate Traditional Chinese Medicine with modern scientific principles.
“My mission is to ensure each patient receives optimal care and support on their wellness journey,” Dr. Moon says. Here, she oversees clinical operations, maintains high standards of care, and leads a dedicated team of acupuncturists in providing lasting relief for patients.
Comprehensive Training Programs
RHA prioritizes continuous professional development and training to keep its team proficient in the latest acupuncture and integrative medicine techniques. According to Dr. Moon, new acupuncturists undergo a comprehensive training program, including an initial five-day immersive course followed by hands-on practice with advanced techniques, and an ongoing 90-day skill enhancement program.
“We provide detailed information and guidelines to help with clinic flows and offer mini-training sessions as needed,” Dr. Moon says, adding that RHA ensures all practitioners are up to date with certifications like CPR, BBP, OSHA, and HIPAA compliance.
Peer reviews and discussions also play a crucial role in RHA’s professional development strategy, allowing acupuncturists to share insights and learn from each other’s experiences. Practitioners are also encouraged to pursue advanced certifications and specialized training to offer the most effective and up-to-date treatments to patients.
Adapting to Industry Changes
The practices of acupuncture and TCM have grown significantly in recent years, Dr. Moon notes, and are increasingly being accepted within the broader healthcare system. Expanded clinical research has proven acupuncture’s effectiveness for various conditions, leading to greater recognition and insurance coverage.
“Technological advances have also improved our understanding of acupuncture, making treatments more precise and effective,” she says. RHA’s integrative approach combines TCM with conventional medical treatments, broadening the range of conditions treated with acupuncture, from pain management to mental health and chronic diseases.
Balancing TCM and Modern Healthcare
RHA strikes a balance between TCM and modern healthcare by adopting an integrative approach. Dr. Moon explains: “We utilize the diagnostic and therapeutic techniques of TCM while also incorporating evidence-based practices and modern medical knowledge.”
Pulse and tongue examination, herbal medicine, and functional nutrition all play a role, while personalized treatment plans consider each patient’s unique needs and medical history.
“Our goal is to provide a holistic approach that addresses the root cause of health issues while also alleviating symptoms,” Dr. Moon says. “This ensures patients achieve the best overall health outcomes.”
For those seeking a holistic approach to wellness that integrates the best of traditional and modern medicine, as well as guidance from an explicitly trained team of experts, Resilient Health Acupuncture & Wellness is here to help. Schedule a consultation with one of our practitioners today to begin your journey toward optimal health.