Introduction

You have just taken the first step toward a meaningful and promising career.  We welcome your interest in the Florida Institute of Traditional Chinese Medicine (FITCM) and our fine program.

In the last twenty years, holistic health care modalities such as Traditional Chinese Medicine (TCM) have gained a tremendous following in this country. This trend is continuing into the twenty-first century.  You have the opportunity to participate in this exciting new frontier.

As a complete medical system that has treated billions of patients for thousands of years, TCM offers vast knowledge and experience in the diagnosis and treatment of diseases.  TCM is a complete system of health care, concerned with the total well-being of the patient.

As such, it also addresses the effect of environment, diet, and lifestyle on the patient and focuses on the prevention of disease. Although Western medicine is effective in the treatment of acute conditions and emergencies, TCM more effectively addresses chronic conditions and those which result from the patient’s lifestyle, diet, and environment.

FITCM offers its students an education program that is in-depth and thorough in TCM, and which also integrates courses in TCM and Western Medicine. Our educational program parallels the five-year medical college system in China.

You will train to become a general family practitioner through courses in general medicine, internal medicine, sports medicine, gynecology, obstetrics, geriatric medicine, addictionology (substance abuse), and disorders of the eyes, ears, nose, and throat.  Your classroom studies will be augmented by a hands-on clinical internship.  Our demanding program requires dedication and discipline.

In Florida, a certified acupuncturist is recognized, by law, as a Primary Health Care Provider, licensed to diagnose and treat patients with acupuncture, herbs, nutritional/dietary counseling, oriental massage, and health-enhancing exercises.   Referrals or diagnoses from other health care providers are not necessary.

This catalog will provide further details about our program.  Should you have any questions, please contact us at (727) 546-6565.  Our business hours are Monday through Friday, 9 am to 6 pm (ET).  I encourage you to join us at our Open House for prospective students.  Please call for details.  I look forward to meeting you!