Shiu-Lin Tsai

Biography and Expertise of Shiu-Lin Tsai

Dr. Shiu-Lin Tsai has forged a distinguished career at the dynamic intersection of pediatric emergency medicine and integrative health. As an Associate Professor at Columbia University, she operates in a high-acuity environment where she has become a champion for non-pharmacological interventions. Her work is a direct response to the need for safe and effective methods to manage common pediatric issues such as pain and procedural anxiety, utilizing a diverse toolkit that includes acupuncture and clinical hypnosis. This approach reduces reliance on medications and improves the patient experience.

Her contributions are exceptionally relevant to the 3rd WCTCIM, particularly its thematic axis on “TCIM Across the Lifespan.” Dr. Tsai’s focus on pediatrics provides critical insights into the application of integrative medicine from an early age. Beyond that, her recent work leading the Climate Collaborative at Columbia directly embodies the congress motto pillar of “Planetary Health.” This initiative links clinical practice to environmental health, aligning perfectly with the congress’s goal to foster intersectoral strategies for well-being. Therefore, her expertise demonstrates a holistic vision that connects individual patient care to global health challenges.

Furthermore, the efforts of Shiu-Lin Tsai in researching and validating these therapies in an emergency setting support the principles of the Gujarat Declaration, which call for science and evidence-based integration. Her work provides a powerful example of how ancient knowledge can be responsibly and effectively incorporated into modern, fast-paced health systems, a key theme for the congress.

Professional Career

Dr. Shiu-Lin Tsai’s professional journey reflects a consistent dedication to advancing pediatric care through both conventional and integrative lenses. Her career began with rigorous training in core pediatric disciplines, which provided the foundation for her later specialization and leadership roles. This trajectory showcases a deliberate path toward expanding the scope of pediatric medicine to include a more holistic and patient-centered model, even within the demanding context of emergency care.

Her progression from a resident to a leading academic and institutional figure at Columbia University illustrates a commitment to clinical excellence, research, and systemic change. Each role has built upon the last, culminating in a position of significant influence in national discussions on integrative pediatrics and climate health.

• 2024 – Present: Founding member and Co-Chair of the Climate Collaborative, Department of Emergency Medicine, Columbia University Irving Medical Center.
• 2019 – Present: Associate Professor of Pediatrics (In Emergency Medicine), Columbia University Vagelos College of Physicians & Surgeons, New York, NY.
• 1996 – 1999: Fellow in Pediatric Emergency Medicine, Jacobi Medical Center, Albert Einstein College of Medicine, Bronx, NY.
• 1991 – 1994: Resident in Pediatrics, University of Minnesota Hospital and Clinic, Minneapolis, MN.

Academic Qualifications

The academic background of Dr. Shiu-Lin Tsai is distinguished by a unique synthesis of orthodox medical education and specialized training in complementary therapies. This dual expertise allows her to navigate both the evidence-based world of academic medicine and the nuanced application of traditional healing arts. Her educational choices demonstrate a forward-thinking approach to medicine, recognizing early on the value of a broader therapeutic toolkit to meet patient needs.

This comprehensive training has been instrumental in her ability to design and implement credible research on integrative practices within a major university hospital. Consequently, her academic path serves as a model for integrating diverse medical knowledge systems.

• 2024: Specialized training in Neuro-acupuncture from the Neuro-Acupuncture Institute, Santa Fe, New Mexico, enhancing her skills in treating complex neurological conditions.
• 2018: Completed Level I training in Fundamental Pediatric Clinical Hypnosis at the National Pediatric Hypnosis Training Institute, Minneapolis, MN.
• 2004: Attended the International Traditional Chinese Medicine Training Program in Acupuncture and Moxibustion at Chengdu University of Traditional Chinese Medicine, China.
• 1996: Received qualification in Medical Acupuncture from the American College of Acupuncture, Inc., New York, NY.
• 1991: Earned her Doctor of Medicine (M.D.) from New York Medical College, New York, NY.
• 1985: Obtained a Bachelor of Arts in Economics from Barnard College, Columbia University, New York, NY.

Research and Publications

Dr. Shiu-Lin Tsai’s research is centered on the practical application and scientific validation of integrative medicine in the pediatric emergency department. Her work directly addresses the need for evidence-based, non-pharmacological options for managing common yet challenging issues like procedural anxiety and pain in children. Through her studies, she seeks to build a robust evidence base that can inform clinical guidelines and promote the broader adoption of these safe and effective therapies.

A significant area of her recent research explores the intersection of climate change and pediatric emergency medicine. This pioneering work investigates the preparedness of healthcare providers to address the health impacts of the climate crisis. Consequently, her research portfolio aligns with the 3rd WCTCIM’s emphasis on both evidence-based contributions and planetary health. Her publication, “Acupressure for procedural anxiety in the pediatric emergency department,” serves as a prime example of research that supports the WHO Traditional Medicine Strategy by validating a low-cost, high-impact intervention.

The commitment of Shiu-Lin Tsai to scholarly work is further demonstrated by key publications such as “Use of Integrative Medicine in a Pediatric Emergency Department” and “The Climate Crisis and the Emergency Department.” These studies not only contribute valuable data but also stimulate critical conversations among healthcare professionals about the future of pediatric care in a changing world.

Board and Committee Activities

Dr. Shiu-Lin Tsai’s leadership extends well beyond her clinical and research duties, as evidenced by her active involvement in key professional organizations and institutional committees. These roles underscore her commitment to shaping the standards, education, and ethical framework of both integrative and emergency pediatrics. Her participation in these groups provides her with a platform to advocate for a more holistic and forward-looking approach to child health on a national and institutional level.

Through these leadership positions, she helps guide the strategic direction of her field, ensuring that integrative medicine is developed and implemented with rigor and integrity. Therefore, her committee work is crucial for building the institutional support necessary for the widespread integration of TCIM.

• 2024 – Present: Chair of the Section on Integrative Medicine (SOIM) at the American Academy of Pediatrics (AAP), leading the section as it celebrates its 20th anniversary.
• 2018 – Present: Executive Committee Member of the AAP Section on Integrative Medicine, contributing to its governance and strategic planning for several years.
• 2022 – Present: Member of the Faculty Council for the Vagelos College of Physicians and Surgeons at Columbia University.
• 2005 – Present: Member of the Pediatric Ethics Committee of NewYork-Presbyterian Hospital, providing guidance on complex clinical and ethical issues for nearly two decades.
• 2013 – 2018: Co-Chair of the Integrative Pediatrics Special Interest Group within the Academic Pediatric Association.

Connect with Dr. Tsai

For more detailed information on the work and publications of Dr. Shiu-Lin Tsai, you can visit her official university profile and professional pages. These resources offer a comprehensive look at her contributions to pediatric emergency medicine, integrative health, and climate-conscious healthcare. They provide valuable insights for colleagues, students, and anyone interested in the future of pediatrics.

Official Faculty Profile: View at Columbia University

AAP Section on Integrative Medicine: Learn More at AAP.org

Doximity Profile: View Professional Network Profile