The National Certification Commission for Acupuncture and Oriental Medicine (NCCAOM) has hired Dr. Kory Ward-Cook to serve as its new chief executive officer, taking over the position held temporarily by Debra Persinger, PhD.
"We are very fortunate to have found a person with a solid understanding of the importance of ensuring standards of competence and safety among health care practitioners," said Daniel Jiao, chair of the NCCAOM's board of commissioners. "There is much enthusiasm in the organization regarding Dr. Ward-Cook's appointment and the future of NCCAOM."
Dr. Ward-Cook brings a rich experience in organizational management and knowledge of professional certification to her new position. She has more than 30 years of experience as a medical professional and instructor, and more than five years of experience in association management. She previously served as the executive director of the American Society for Clinical Pathology's Board of Registry, and was instrumental in increasing the board's number of certifications and qualifications.
"The rapid increase in the use of acupuncture and Oriental medicine and its solidification as an integrated part of today's health care system is very exciting," said Dr. Ward-Cook. "I look forward to working with the staff and leadership of NCCAOM and its many qualified diplomates to ensure a positive future for the practice of acupuncture and Oriental medicine."
Dr. Ward-Cook holds a bachelor's degree in medical technology from the University of Maine, a master's degree in clinical laboratory technology from the University of Dayton, and a doctoral degree in pathology from The Ohio State University. She is certified as a medical technologist and is also a certified association executive. In addition, she has held a number of leadership positions in several professional societies.
Additional information regarding Dr. Ward-Cook and NCCAOM is available at the commission's Web site (www.nccaom.org).
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