Frequently Asked Questions

1. Is acupuncture safe?

Yes! It has been used for well over 2000 years to help billions of people to get well and stay healthy, without drugs and surgery.  The College of COMEPLEMENTARY HEALTH PROFESSIONALS OF BC (CCHPBC)  requires that acupuncturists follow strict safety guidelines and user only sterile, nontoxic needles that are labeled for single use only.

 

2. Do acupuncture needles hurt?

Naturally, people associate needle pain with their past experience with hypodermic needles. You can fit close to 10 acupuncture needles inside the tip of one hypodermic needle. Acupuncture needles are tiny, thin and flexible, about the size of a cat’s whisker. Once the needles are inserted, some patients may experience a mild tingling or a sensation of fullness, along with an increased sense of relaxation. These are all quite normal and suggest that the treatment is working.

 

3. What does a first visit include?

The first time visit includes a consult to develop an individualized plan and treatment. Besides acupuncture, the plan may include nutritional counselling, herbal consultations, cupping, Moxibustion and Electro-acupuncture. Herbs and supplements are an additional cost.

 

4 How long are the visits?

The first time visit is 1 hours. Follow-up visits are 45 minutes.

 

5. What should I wear to my appointment?

Loose, comfortable clothing is best. Also, don’t forget to eat something before your appointment.

 

6. How many treatments will I need?

Each patient is different. The initial phase of the treatment plan is usually between 4-10 visits. The length of treatment depends on how long the condition has been present and how quickly the patient responds to treatment. Generally if a condition is more acute, patients respond faster than if it’s been a chronic condition.

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7.Will my insurance cover acupuncture?  What about ICBC, MSP?

Acupuncture is widely accepted and most extended medical plans do cover it. However, coverage varies between providers and individual policies, so we recommend checking with your insurer for the exact details.
In most cases, a doctor’s referral is not required, though some plans may request one.

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ICBC:
As of April 1, 2019, ICBC officially includes acupuncture as a recognized therapy. They cover the first 12 sessions within 12 weeks after a motor vehicle accident, with additional sessions approved on a case-by-case basis. We are authorized to direct bill ICBC for eligible claims.

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MSP:
If you are enrolled in the MSP Premium Assistance Program, MSP covers a portion of up to 10 acupuncture treatments per calendar year. This program is income-based. If you think you may be eligible but are not yet enrolled, please contact MSP for more information.

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8. Can you direct bill insurance companies?

Yes. We currently accept direct billing for ICBC, MSP (for eligible patients), and most Extended Medical Plans. Please check with your insurance provider to confirm if direct billing is available under your policy.
We are able to direct bill most insurance companies — view the full list here.