Recorded on October 27, 2025.
This workshop, Oncology Acupuncture 101: Guideline-Based Foundations and Safety Strategies, offers a comprehensive introduction to the integration of acupuncture into oncology care. Hosted at Dana-Farber Cancer Institute (DFCI), a leader in cancer care and research, and supported by SIO Acupuncture SIG, the session is designed for acupuncturists as well as other integrative oncology professionals, including oncologists, nurses, and allied health providers. By broadening its scope, the workshop aims to equip participants with the knowledge and tools necessary to integrate acupuncture into multidisciplinary cancer care teams and improve referral pathways. The first half of the session provides foundational knowledge on oncology acupuncture, including its evidence-based applications for managing symptoms such as pain, chemotherapy-induced peripheral neuropathy (CIPN), and hot flashes. Presenters review major integrative oncology guidelines (ASCO, SIO, NCCN) and discuss how acupuncture complements conventional cancer treatments. Specific attention is given to safety protocols, including lab value interpretation and infection control, ensuring that all participants understand how to safely refer or administer acupuncture in complex oncology settings. The second half emphasizes experiential learning through interactive breakout sessions. These sessions cater to both acupuncturists and non-acupuncturist attendees: For Acupuncturists: Hands-on demonstrations of electroacupuncture, safe needling techniques and modifications for high-risk patients. For Oncologists, Nurses, and Allied Professionals: Case discussions on identifying appropriate candidates for acupuncture referrals, understanding its clinical benefits, and addressing common patient concerns about safety, efficacy and qualifications of acupuncturists To foster interdisciplinary collaboration, the workshop concludes with a panel discussion featuring experts from diverse fields, including medical oncology, research, and acupuncture. This session explores strategies for integrating acupuncture into comprehensive cancer care plans while addressing barriers such as cost concerns or misconceptions about training and competency. Participants will leave with actionable insights to improve patient outcomes through evidence-based integrative practices. Oncologists and nurses will gain confidence in making informed referrals for acupuncture, while acupuncturists will deepen their understanding of interdisciplinary collaboration.
Learning Objectives:
By the end of this 105-minute workshop, participants will be able to:
1. Recognize the Role of Oncology Acupuncture in Integrative Cancer Care • Understand how acupuncture is effectively integrated at leading cancer centers like Dana-Farber Cancer Institute (DFCI). • Appreciate the evolving status of oncology acupuncture as a subspecialty, supported by professional groups like SIO’s Acupuncture Special Interest Group (SIG).
2. Understand Foundational Oncology Concepts and Safety Essentials • Summarize basic cancer biology, staging, and treatments (chemotherapy, radiation, targeted therapies) relevant to acupuncture. • Identify typical side effects (pain, neuropathy, hot flashes) caused by general cancer treatments and incorporate risk management strategies for immunocompromised or high-risk patients.
3. Apply Major Oncology Practice Guidelines to Acupuncture • Reference and interpret key cancer care recommendations from ASCO, SIO, and NCCN for integrative oncology. • Integrate these guidelines into evidence-based acupuncture protocols for symptom management.
4. Implement Practical Safety and Risk-Management Strategies • Utilize essential lab values (platelet counts, neutrophils) and imaging cues (bone metastases) for safe needling. • Practice infection control measures and appropriate referral processes within an interdisciplinary setting.
5. Engage in Interactive, Hands-On Breakout Sessions • Collaborate in small groups, guided by DFCI’s practicing oncology acupuncturists, to apply guideline-based safety and symptom management protocols. • Discuss strategies for integrating acupuncture across the oncology continuum—from active treatment through survivorship and palliative care.
No refunds will be issued for recordings.