How to Price An Acupuncturist

Acupuncture has its roots in ancient Chinese traditions. In this discipline, pain and illness are controlled by puncturing the skin with fine needles at prescribed points. Such ailments as TMJ, back pain, sciatica, insomnia, asthma and infertility have all supposedly been addressed with acupuncture. An acupuncturist is a trained and often licensed professional skilled in the techniques of this time-honored method of healing.

Instructions

Difficulty: Moderately Easy

Things You’ll Need:

• Computer with Internet access to research acupuncturists

Price an Acupuncturist

1. Cast a wide net. Get the names and telephone numbers of acupuncturists in your area by checking out online directories (see Resources below).
2. Take a close look at your insurance. Though acupuncture isn't covered by Medicare or Medicaid, it is covered by many health plans. Contact your insurance carrier to see if acupuncture is included in your package, since this could obviously play a big part in the price you pay for your treatment. Some insurers also require that acupuncture treatments be preauthorized. Again, this is something you'll want to be aware of before undergoing treatment.
3. Narrow the field. Contact the acupuncturists in your area and ask questions regarding experience and credentials. Inquire about licensing, if your state requires that acupuncturists be licensed (see Resources below). This is also the time to inquire about rates.
4. Make a decision. Look at the qualifications offered by your list of candidates and weigh it against their rates. Pick an acupuncturist who offers the best balance of affordability and credentials.

Tips & Warnings

• The cost of acupuncture treatment ranges from moderate to expensive. Rates are influenced by the experience and credentials. The city in which a practitioner is based also plays in part in the cost.
• Some states require that acupuncturists be licensed in order to provide care. Find out if your state is one of them by visiting the Acupuncture Laws and Legislature page at on the Acufinder Web site (see Resources below).
• If suffering severe symptoms--such as chest congestion that hasn't cleared up after a week--don't seek to treat your ailment with acupuncture. Your condition could be life-threatening, and is best addressed by a doctor.
• Before you start any alternative medical technique, be aware that many have not been scientifically evaluated. Often, only limited information is available about their safety and effectiveness. Each state and each discipline has its own rules about how alternative medicine practitioners can be professionally licensed. If you decide to visit one, choose one licensed by a recognized national organization. Consult your primary health care provider about your decision first. Keep your doctor informed about the alternative medical technique you undertake.