Presenter: Dongcheng Li, AP, Ed.D., Dipl. O.M. (NCCAOM)
Original Date: June 7, 2026
As Traditional Chinese Medicine (TCM) gains global recognition, it is essential to evolve research methodologies that reflect TCM’s holistic, patient-centered nature. This presentation introduces a forward-thinking framework—Social & Health Studies of TCM (SHSTCM)—which integrates biomedical research with social sciences, public health, psychology, and healthcare policy. Through real-world case studies, mixed-methods research, and global collaboration strategies, this session provides tools for creating a scientifically rigorous yet culturally grounded research approach that honors the essence of TCM. Designed for practitioners, researchers, and educators, this session will help redefine how we study and advocate for TCM in the 21st century.
Bio:
Dongcheng Li is a licensed acupuncturist in Oregon and Florida, board-certified by the National Certification Commission for Acupuncture and Oriental Medicine (NCCAOM), and the founder of the Global TCM Education Center. He currently serves as the Dean of Chinese Medicine at the National University of Natural Medicine (NUNM). He holds a doctoral degree in Education from Johns Hopkins University and has an extensive teaching background at several acupuncture colleges across the United States.
Dr. Li recently introduced an innovative interdisciplinary framework that integrates social and health sciences into Chinese medicine research. This approach empowers practitioners to conduct independent research and offers creative, practice-informed research solutions for doctoral students in acupuncture institutions. He is the author of Research Design in Chinese Medicine: Linking Social and Health Sciences.
A fifth-generation TCM practitioner, Dr. Li began his training in Chinese Medicine at an early age in China. He holds a Medical Degree in Chinese Medicine and a Master’s degree in Chinese Materia Medica from Chinese universities, as well as a Master’s degree in Exercise Physiology from the United States. He has operated a private acupuncture clinic in Florida for over 15 years.
An accomplished author, Dr. Li has published several bestselling books on Amazon. Since 2009, he has actively taught acupuncture board exam preparation courses throughout the U.S., directly and indirectly benefiting thousands of students through his training programs and publications.
NUNM is accredited by the North American Naturopathic Continuing Education Council (NANCEAC). This activity qualifies for 1.0 General, 0.25 Ethics, and 0.25 Pain Management (Total 1.5 CEUs).