ICMART (International Council of Medical Acupuncture and Related Techniques) is a global organization dedicated to the promotion and advancement of medical acupuncture and related therapeutic techniques. With a rich history dating back to its establishment in 1983, ICMART has played a pivotal role in fostering collaboration and knowledge exchange among practitioners, researchers, and educators in the field of acupuncture and complementary medicine.
Key Highlights of ICMART :
Global Reach
ICMART serves as a unifying force in the world of medical acupuncture, bringing together professionals from diverse backgrounds and geographical regions. This global network enables the sharing of best practices and the dissemination of cutting-edge research.
Scientific Advancement
ICMART is committed to advancing the scientific understanding of acupuncture and related techniques. Through conferences, seminars, and publications, the organization supports research initiatives and promotes evidence-based approaches to acupuncture therapy.
Education and Training
ICMART places a strong emphasis on education and training. It collaborates with member organizations and institutions to develop standardized curricula and certification programs, ensuring that practitioners meet high-quality standards in their training and practice.
Advocacy and Recognition
ICMART advocates for the recognition and integration of acupuncture and related therapies into mainstream healthcare systems worldwide. The organization works tirelessly to raise awareness of the benefits of these therapies among healthcare professionals, policymakers, and the public.
Community and Networking
ICMART provides a vibrant community and networking platform for professionals in the field. It encourages the exchange of ideas, experiences, and expertise, fostering a sense of camaraderie among its members.
ICMART’s dedication to enhancing the quality and accessibility of medical acupuncture and related techniques makes it a leading authority in the field. Whether you are a healthcare practitioner, researcher, or simply interested in the world of acupuncture, ICMART offers a valuable platform for collaboration and knowledge-sharing on a global scale.
The Istanbul Acupuncture and Complementary Medicine Association was founded in Istanbul in 1987 and is one of the oldest acupuncture associations in Türkiye. Our association, which only accepts medical doctors as members, has over 100 active members.
The main areas of activity of the Istanbul Acupuncture and Complementary Medicine Association are:
- Organizing national and international scientific congresses
- Contributing to the professional development of acupuncture and complementary medicine physicians by organizing webinar programs
- Organizing workshop programs in the field of acupuncture and complementary medicine.
As a member of ICMART, the Istanbul Acupuncture and Complementary Medicine Association continues its activities at an international level with innovative programs.
- History and Development
The Acupuncture and Complementary Medicine Association was initially founded in 2002 under the name “Ankara Acupuncture and Complementary Medicine Association.” The founding Board of Directors included Dr. Cemal Çevik (President), Dr. Ayfer Kuzulugil, Dr. Yüksel Küçükçelebi, Dr. Fatih Akçal, and Dr. Leyla Erdem.
In 2004, the “Ankara Journal of Acupuncture and Complementary Medicine” was first published. The Journal’s purpose is to assist in the training of practitioner physicians, inform members about acupuncture, and educate the public. The journal continues to be published regularly twice a year since then.
- Mission and Objective
The core mission of our Association is the development, scientific study, and dissemination of Acupuncture and Traditional and Complementary Medicine (GETAT), Functional Medicine, Holistic Medicine, and similar practices. This includes training health professionals in these fields and contributing to the provision of health services to the public within this framework.
- Education and Activities
The Association’s activities include courses in various fields such as acupuncture, auriculotherapy, cupping therapy, manual therapy, and hypnosis, along with 8 national and international congresses and 8 symposiums. Beginning form the foundation of the association biweekly seminars were organize at the venue. The seminars have continued online during the pandemic period, and currently maintain a hybrid format (online and in-person). Course participation, association membership, and the seminars themselves have facilitated the sharing of expertise in acupuncture while simultaneously promoting social cohesion and networking among members.
In a significant move, the first selection examination for candidates wishing to attend the Ministry of Health’s Acupuncture course was administered by our association in 2005, and Acupuncture courses have been opened since that date. Following the promulgation of the GETAT Regulation in 2014, these courses continued as Ministry of Health-approved Acupuncture Certified Training Programs.
- International Recognition and Current Board
Our Association is increasing its international recognition. In addition to our membership in the International Council of Medical Acupuncture and Related Techniques (ICMART), we have recently been accepted into the World Federation of Acupuncture and Moxibustion (WFAS).
The Acupuncture Association was founded in Istanbul in 1987. Our association is a member of ICMART and has over 100 members. The Acupuncture Association aims to conduct its work at an international level by signing memorandum of understanding agreements with international acupuncture schools and associations.
The main areas of activity of the Acupuncture Association are:
- Organizing scientific conferences with national and international participation,
- Contributing to professional development by publishing journals and books in the field of acupuncture,
- Conducting scientific meetings and publications with the “Treatment-Resistant Conditions Working Group” established within our association to provide a new perspective on diseases and to permanently resolve resistant diseases,
- Organizing workshops and trainings in the field of traditional and complementary medicine in cooperation with universities in Turkey,
- Holding scientific meetings to advance traditional and complementary medicine practices on a scientific basis.
As the Acupuncture Association, our fundamental principle is the integrative use of traditional and complementary medicine practices, especially acupuncture, together with modern medical practices from an integrative medicine perspective.
Global Reach
Based in İzmir and a member of ICMART, our association aims to create national and international impact in the fields of Traditional and Complementary Medicine (TCM), Functional Medicine, and Integrative Medicine. By developing collaborations with institutes, academies, and non-governmental organizations abroad, it contributes to global knowledge sharing. Through international projects, memberships, and joint initiatives, it continuously expands its scientific communication network.
Scientific Advancement
Our association supports the advancement of the field through scientific research, projects, and publications. It provides access to up-to-date scientific knowledge through congresses, symposiums, panels, and educational meetings. By establishing structures such as TCM centers, training institutes, and academies, it leads the disciplined execution of both practical and theoretical studies.
Education and Training
It organizes courses, seminars, and online education platforms for healthcare professionals. To ensure permanent accessibility of all educational content, it develops digital infrastructures. In order to support public health, it produces awareness-raising content, publications, brochures, and media initiatives.
Advocacy and Recognition
The association carries out activities that support the scientific recognition and dissemination of acupuncture and other Traditional and Complementary Medicine practices within the framework of the Traditional and Complementary Medicine regulation implemented in Türkiye. By developing collaborations with public institutions and relevant organizations, it contributes to legislation, policies, and projects. When necessary, it strengthens its legal authority and effectiveness through foundations, federations, or umbrella organizations.
Community and Network Building
It establishes a strong professional and social community network for its members. Solidarity is encouraged through scientific meetings, social events, cultural activities, and sharing platforms. By opening branches and representative offices in required regions, it expands its reach and keeps community interaction continuously active.