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Frequently Asked Questions

 

What can I expect during my first visit?

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The initial visit is 90 minutes and follow up visits are normally less.  The acupuncturist will ask you many questions to assess your general health and identify the disharmony in your body.  Some of the questions may not seem related to your complaint but they are important to get an overview of how your body is functioning.   During your visit, the acupuncturist will take your pulse, look at your tongue and palpate various points to determine the best treatment for you.  Then you will receive an acupuncture treatment. Cupping, tui na or electric stimulation may be added to the treatment based on your treatment plan.

 

Does acupuncture hurt?

 

Most of the time only a slight sensation is felt as the needle is inserted.  Acupuncture needles are very fine. Approximately 10 acupuncture needles make up the size of one hypodermic needle.  Depending on the location, you may not even feel the insertion. At times, you may feel a heavy or electric sensation which should dissipate after a few moments.  Communicate your sensations with your acupuncturist so he/she can adjust the needles accordingly. 

 

How should I prepare for my appointment?

 

Wear loose clothing that can comfortably be rolled up above the knees and elbows.  

Eat a small meal or snack within an hour prior to your appointment. 

 

How many treatments will I need?

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Each person is different and it depends on your condition.  Most issues will require an initial series of 4-10 treatments, once or twice a week.  The length of treatment depends on how long the condition has been an issue. Generally acute conditions respond in fewer treatments than chronic, long-term conditions.  

 

How will I feel after my treatment?

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Usually patients feel calm and relaxed.  Depending on the treatment, you may feel tired. In some cases, you may feel a slight flare up of the condition as part of the healing process.  Gentle movement after the treatment will help keep Qi flowing. 

 

Do you accept insurance?

 

Yes, if your plan has out of network (OON) acupuncture benefits performed by a licensed acupuncturist. If your plan requires a copay, it will be due at the time of the treatment.  After a treatment, we will submit a bill to your insurance. Some insurance companies pay providers directly and others will send the provider’s reimbursement to the patient. In which case, it is the patient’s responsibility to bring those checks to the provider. If this applies to you, please feel free to ask us questions.  

 

Feel free to call and we can verify your out of network (OON) benefits or you can call the phone number on the back of your insurance card. Some questions to ask your insurance company:

• Is OON acupuncture covered by my plan? 

• Is a referral required from my Primary Care Provider?

• Is pre-authorization required? 

• Is there an OON annual deductible? If so, how much is the OON deductible? How much has been met?

• If I am covered for OON acupuncture, then ask for written proof of authorization? 

• Is there a maximum yearly OON allowance for acupuncture? Maximum number of visits? Specific dollar amount? What percentage is covered? Is reimbursement limited to a particular network of providers? 

• Is reimbursement limited only to Medical Doctors who perform acupuncture and not applicable to licensed acupuncturists? 

• Am I limited to specific diagnosis codes? If so, what are they?

 

Is acupuncture safe?

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Yes acupuncture is safe, if provided by a licensed acupuncturist (LAc). It is a natural, drug free modality which brings about feelings of relaxation and increased well being. The risks associated with acupuncture have been shown to be extremely low when performed by LAcs. While side effects are rare, they can include minor soreness, minimal bleeding and bruising at the insertion sites.  All needles are commercially sterilized and single use.

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Feel free to give us a call with any further questions.