Belgium

The BAF – Belgian Acupunctors Federation – is the largest professional association for acupuncturists in Belgium. It was founded in 1982. The statutes and organization of our association are in accordance with the law on professional associations and the BAF was recognized as such by the Council of State on September 14, 1998 and established by Royal Decree of February 10, 2003.

BAF is recognized by the government by the Minister of Health as a representative professional association for acupuncturists.

The BAF strives for a professional practice of acupuncture in Belgium. Its members must meet specific entry requirements so that BAF can guarantee a high-quality practice of acupuncture. She has been striving for a legal status for years.

BAF is recognized by the government by the Minister of Health as a representative professional association for acupuncturists. But the profession of acupuncture is still not recognized in Belgium.

-Full members: licensed acupuncturist

-Prospective members: acupuncture students

-Honorary member: acupuncturist who are retired

Basic training required

1. Occupation: Training that leads to one of the occupations mentioned in KB 78 Sec 1. Concretely, this meant that it should be doctor, physiotherapist, nurse or midwife A1. This training is required to ensure the requisite knowledge of anatomy, physiology and pathology. It will also guarantee a therapeutic attitude. – The actual acupuncture training:   * A study load of at least 1500 hours, equivalent to 500 contact hours of 60 minutes (or 600 contact hours of 50 minutes), which preferably 1/3 spent on practice and practical training within the program.   * 10 Internship reports    * deliver a thesis and successfully defend orally.
2. Training: see A. – Registered in a BAF-known acupuncture training.

Required continuing education
Participation of continuing education of 12h/year.

Requirements for continuing membership
Paying of membership fee.