IMPA Director Peter Mayer Featured on Radio Taiwan International's German Program

Exploring the Journey from Traditional Martial Arts to Chinese Medicine and the Integration of Eastern and Western Medical Practices

Dr. Peter Mayer, Director of the International Master Program in Acupuncture at China Medical University, was recently featured in a three-part interview on Radio Taiwan International (RTI)'s German program. Hosted by Ilon Huang, the interview explores Dr. Mayer's professional journey from Germany to Taiwan, his pursuit of Traditional Chinese Medicine (TCM), and his perspectives on the integration of Chinese and Western medicine.

Having lived in Taiwan for nearly 20 years, Dr. Mayer has developed a distinctive professional path that bridges Eastern and Western medical traditions. His interest in traditional Chinese martial arts initially sparked his curiosity about Chinese culture and medicine. Although he began his academic journey in Western medicine, his growing interest in TCM eventually led him to China and, subsequently, Taiwan, where he pursued formal university training and completed the national licensing examination to qualify as a practicing TCM physician.

In the second part of the interview, Dr. Mayer discusses the relationship between TCM and conventional Western medicine, highlighting their complementary roles in patient care and the diverse clinical applications of traditional medical practices. He also shares insights into the rigorous education and professional training required to become a licensed TCM physician, offering German-speaking audiences a closer look at the development of Chinese medicine expertise in Taiwan.

The final episode turns to Dr. Mayer's clinical experience and cultural perspectives. He reflects on how patients respond to receiving treatment from a German TCM physician, noting that his international background sometimes sparks curiosity and draws patients seeking to learn more about his approach to Chinese medicine. He also shares his enduring passion for traditional Chinese martial arts and discusses the health benefits of Tai Chi, before reflecting on how he and his family have experienced and embraced life in Taiwan over the past two decades.

Through this three-part interview, Dr. Mayer offers an engaging perspective on the intersection of traditional knowledge, modern healthcare, and cross-cultural exchange. His professional journey reflects the international and interdisciplinary spirit of China Medical University and its commitment to advancing Chinese medicine education, clinical practice and global engagement.

Listen to the Full Three-Part Interview

Part 1 – From Traditional Martial Arts to Chinese Medicine 

Part 2 – Traditional Chinese Medicine and Western Medical Practice 

Part 3 – Clinical Practice, Tai Chi, and Life in Taiwan

Source: Radio Taiwan International (RTI), German-Language Program.