I am an acupuncturist who has been licensed in Virginia for 19 years.  I understand and appreciate the value of an ACAOM-accredited education.  That being said, I know of a number of acupuncturists, some with excellent training and skills, who did not graduate from ACAOM accredited schools.  If this non-ACAOM school is located in Canada or Mexico or Asia, or anywhere other than the United States, these practitioners can submit their transcript to a credentialing body and, if their education is deemed sufficient, they can sit the NCCAOM exams and if they pass, can become licensed in Virginia.  I am sure it was not the intention of Virginia Regulators to allow a path to licensure for those who received their education out of the United States that is not available to those who attended school in the United States.  The NCCAOM exams are well-respected.  Those without sufficient education would be unable to pass these strenuous exams. Therefore, I believe this regulatory change is reasonable and will not endanger the citizens of Virginia.