The above networks are primarily for professional and academic researchers and they are not specifically for acupuncture. For those who are primarily practitioners, but interested in research, something different may be called for:
South-West Acupuncture Research Group (SWARG) [contact ARRC for further details]
The members are BAcC practitioners in the SW of England, and the group is coordinated by a professional researcher. They have worked on several projects over the years, presented results at conferences and published in various journals. Their current research is on self-care advice in acupuncture treatment [Paterson C, Evans M, Bertschinger, R Chapman R, Norton R, Robinson J (2012) Communication about self-care in traditional acupuncture consultations: the co-construction of individualised support and advice. Patient Education & Counselling. 89 : 467–475]. No particular research experience or qualification is required to join the group, just an interest: this goes for the other groups described below.
Confucius Institute Research Group (CIRC) [contact Ian Appleyard: This email address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it.]
Located at the Confucius Institute at London South Bank University, this is open to any acupuncturists and includes established and novice researchers as well as visiting Chinese TCM teachers. This is a relatively new group and the emphasis so far has been on discussing members’ own ideas and projects rather than coordinated group work.
British Acupuncture Council Research Network
For BAcC members only. For further details and application form [LINK].
*** Currently under construction