In order to protect the life, health and safety of the public, any person practicing or offering to practice as an acupuncturist is required to submit evidence that he or she is qualified to practice, and is licensed as provided in this article. After June 30, 1997, it shall be unlawful for any person not licensed under the provisions of this article to practice acupuncture in this state, or to use any title, sign, card or device to indicate that he or she is an acupuncturist. The provisions of this article are not intended to limit, preclude or otherwise interfere with the practice of other health care providers working in any setting and licensed by appropriate agencies or boards of the State of West Virginia whose practices and training may include elements of the same nature as the practice of a licensed acupuncturist.