MCPHS Opens Boston Acupuncture Treatment Center: Hands‑On Learning and Patient Care
Massachusetts College of Pharmacy and Health Sciences (MCPHS) has expanded its clinical offerings with the launch of a new acupuncture treatment center on the Boston campus. The facility serves a dual purpose: it provides real‑world training for students in the New England School of Acupuncture (NESA) and offers patients—students, faculty, and staff—a convenient option for acupuncture therapy.
Why Acupuncture Is a Strategic Addition to MCPHS’s Health Portfolio
Acupuncture is increasingly recognized as a complementary therapy for stress, pain, and chronic conditions. By integrating this modality into its campus clinics, MCPHS demonstrates its commitment to holistic health education and patient-centered care. The decision aligns with national trends indicating a rise in demand for alternative treatments among younger adults and healthcare professionals.
Hands‑On Experience for NESA Interns
New England School of Acupuncture students complete over 500 hours of clinical internship each year. The Boston center brings that practice to life in a real hospital‑style environment. Interns work side‑by‑side with nurses, pharmacists, and physician‑assistant students, reinforcing interdisciplinary collaboration. The exposure enables interns to:
- Apply theory to real patient scenarios.
- Learn scheduling, billing, and documentation principles.
- Receive mentorship from experienced clinicians.
- Understand the regulatory framework surrounding acupuncture in the United States.
One intern, Rob Halpin, shared that many of his patients had never received acupuncture before. “It’s a chance to demystify acupuncture for a population that is curious and enthusiastic,” he says. Such stories underscore the educational value this setting provides.
Community‑Style Acupuncture: A Lower‑Barrier Introduction
The center houses an eight‑chair community acupuncture room. Patients can join a group session in a relaxed on‑site setting that includes reclining chairs, massage features, and heating options. Community acupuncture is cost‑effective and encourages social support, making it attractive for students seeking a low‑commitment path into regular treatment.
Patient Outcomes and Satisfaction
Early testimonials from the campus community speak to the responsiveness of acupuncture for stress‑related symptoms and digestive upset. Faculty members report fewer office absences after a single visit, while students note improvements in anxiety and sleep.
Denise Mackey, MAC ’26, highlights that “many patients enjoy the treatment enough to return for multiple sessions.” With a recommended minimum of three appointments, patients can see measurable progress and maintain therapy as needed.
Beyond the Campus: Opportunities for MCPHS Alumni and Prospective Students
Although the center initially serves the on‑campus community, it also acts as a research laboratory. Faculty and graduate students can use the space for studies on acupuncture efficacy, contributing to the growing evidence base that informs national guidelines.
Prospective students in health‑science programs are invited to visit the center and observe real‑time clinical practice. This experience can inform career decisions and provide insight into integrative medicine pathways.
Scheduling and Availability
The facility operates on Tuesdays, Thursdays, and Fridays. Appointments require a simple confirmation via [email protected]. Because the center is student‑run, scheduling is flexible and often accommodates tight campus calendars.
Integrating Acupuncture into the Wider College Ecosystem
By situating the acupuncture center within a university that spans pharmacy, nursing, dental hygiene, and physician assistants, MCPHS fosters an environment of shared knowledge. Students can see how complementary therapies can support conventional treatments—something that is essential education for future healthcare providers.
The cross‑disciplinary exposure positions MCPHS graduates to offer more comprehensive care, an asset increasingly sought by employers and patients alike. Additionally, the presence of acupuncture along with other faculty research centers — such as the Center for Drug Information and Natural Products — underscores the university’s interdisciplinary focus on integrative health.
Future Expansion and Community Engagement
Initial feedback suggests a growing demand for acupuncture services. MCPHS plans to explore extending services to a wider regional audience by partnering with local clinics and expanding community acupuncture sessions. This partnership model could serve both educational and public health objectives.
Future events include workshops on acupuncture science, patient education sessions, and collaboration with the American University of Armenia’s global health program. These initiatives aim to enhance the university’s reputation as a leader in integrative health research and practice.
Get Involved or Learn More
If you are a student or staff member interested in acupuncture, consider scheduling a visit. If you are a prospective student or health‑care professional looking for an institution that values holistic education, explore the programs offered by the New England School of Acupuncture. Beyond that, you can attend the upcoming community talks on integrative medicine hosted by MCPHS.
Submit your application today and join a community that prioritizes both academic excellence and practical, patient‑centered care. For further details on how acupuncture can fit into your health science career, schedule a free consultation with a program coordinator. Have questions or feedback? Write to us and share your experience.
