Your first acupuncture treatment
Posted on 10/21/2009 02:27 pm by adminWhat can I expect?
The typical acupuncture first visit will include taking a detailed medical history. You may expedite the process by printing the forms below and filling them out before you arrive . Then we will discuss your general health and the problem you wish to treat. I will measure your temperature, blood pressure, pulse rate, and weight. I will feel the pulses of both wrists and look at your tongue. Based on the information I gather, I will diagnose your “pattern” according to the Chinese system of disharmonies and plan a treatment strategy. I will insert needles, and you will rest on the table for 20-30 minutes. Then I will remove the needles and discuss your prognosis and things you can do to help it along.
How much does it cost?
The total cost per session varies with modalities used and time spent. People have asked me about insurance, and I’d love for people to be able to use their coverage. Here is the list of prices from which I may bill; what is out of pocket will depend on the individual plan. If paying at time of service, the cost starts at $65.
Outcalls: minimum 1 hour, $1/minute+$0.50/mile, housecalls to current patients only, i.e. I need to have seen you in the office first.
Because many conditions are easily treated with arm and leg points, and to maximize your session, I do not provide nor charge for table set up on outcalls. If you have a table, that’s fine, a recliner works great, too. I can treat up to four people at a time on an outcall, so this may be an economical option if you have space and know other people who need treatment. Consultations can be done via phone and email, so no worries about discussing your ailments in front of others.
Acupuncture is a therapy, just as medicine is. There are not many prescriptions that cure with one dose, and more serious conditions require a steady schedule, rather than analgesic as needed. I certainly understand that cost can be a barrier, but if you need regular treatments and can commit the time to getting them, I’m sure we can come up with a compensation plan that is agreeable to both of us. Please discuss this with me before beginning treatment.
Where exactly are you located?
800 N. Bishop is on the north corner of Canty and Bishop in North Oak Cliff, two blocks from the Bishop Arts District.
How can I pay? Do you take insurance?
Currently, I am taking Mastercard, Visa, cash, checks, and paypal. There will be a $20 fee for returned checks. I can bill your insurance, but be aware that different policies have different coverages and exemptions. I can also give you a detailed receipt with which to seek reimbursement directly to you by your insurance.
Paperwork! Please do this in advance!
history
HIPAA
patient information
What if I don’t make my appointment?
If you’re running late or won’t make it, call me. I will usually be able to accomodate you. However, space is limited, and if you cause a disruption in my schedule with other patients, I reserve the right to charge a $20 fee for being late to an appointment. No-shows will be charged $45, and unless the appointment was made within 24 hours, cancellations within 24 hours are subject to a $30 fee.
More tips:
Acupuncture is best received on a stomach neither full nor empty. You shouldn’t skip breakfast, anyway. I will be looking at your tongue. Don’t scrape the coating; it tells me something, diagnostically. Also, try to remember not to eat bright colored candy or drink punch.
Expect that I will need access to your arms, legs, and possibly belly. Gowns are provided, but if you are more modest, wear sleeves and pants that push up. I will be feeling your pulse on both wrists. If you wear many stacks of bracelets, please either take them off before your appointment or make sure you can push them up.