Analysis of Traditional Medical Disputes: Data from the Korean Acupuncture and Moxibustion Medicine Society (2013-2017)

Background The purpose of this study was to analyze the medical dispute cases in Acupuncture and Moxibustion treatment, and present the guidelines of treatment to prevent medical disputes. Methods Korean Acupuncture and Moxibustion Medicine Society medical dispute cases from January 2013 to September 2018 were collected and analyzed. Results There were 80 cases, which included acupuncture treatment (54 cases), cupping treatment (7 cases), local infection / inflammation (17 cases), and neurological symptoms (13 cases). Analysis of the correlation between types of medical accidents and the treatment methods, showed that local infection and inflammation (12 cases) were the most reported in acupuncture treatment. Conclusions This study was performed to analyze the current status of medical disputes in the field of acupuncture and moxibustion, and provide basic data for guidelines to prevent them. Further study preparing for clinical guidelines to prevent medical disputes in specific departments are warranted in the future.