FAQ

What is Acupuncture and how does it work?

Acupuncture is one of many modalities within Chinese Medicine, and the most popular in the United States. It involves the insertion of very fine needles at acupoints on the body that correspond to specific locations along channels of energy called Qi (pronounced “chi”). Acupoints can be stimulated in many ways, such as with needles, pressure, or electricity. In Chinese Medicine theory, we believe that stimulating acupoints allows us to access the Qi in the local area and within that channel, thereby altering physiology in specific ways.

The number and location of needles will vary depending on the condition(s) being treated. We exclusively employ sterile, single-use needles that are about the thickness of a human hair when applying acupuncture. Most patients experience the feeling of “De Qi” with acupuncture. This sensation is most often described as a heavy, distending, or sore/achy feeling like what some people experience with a massage. The sensation of “De Qi” is desired, albeit not necessary for a treatment to be effective. If done correctly, acupuncture is generally not painful. 

What do you offer besides acupuncture?

While acupuncture can help correct many disharmonies in the body, Chinese herbology offers a powerful and natural method to combat more serious imbalances. Modern Chinese Medicine is a culmination of millennia of experience in the use natural medicinal substances for treating disease. We offer various forms of Chinese herbal products, including granule powders, pills, tinctures, plasters, and ointments.

Our services also include various bodywork techniques, such as cupping, guasha, and Tuina massage. 

Are treatments covered by insurance?

Depends on your insurance plan. If you are unsure, contact your insurance company to find out if your plan covers acupuncture. If your benefits do include acupuncture, we can submit claims for you. We can also bill personal injury claims if you have been in an auto accident. 

We accept insurance from most of the major carriers in the area, including the following:

• Blue Cross Blue Shield (Regence)

• CHP (Complementary Health Plans)

• Kaiser Permanente

• Moda

• Optum

• United Healthcare

• Personal Injury Protection (motor vehicle accidents)

• Some plans may have out-of-network benefits for acupuncture

How much does it cost and what kinds of payment do you accept?

If your insurance covers acupuncture, you would only pay the copay designated by your insurance plan (office visit copays can be anywhere between $5 and $60 depending on your plan). Herbs and other products are charged separately.

If your insurance plan does not cover acupuncture, our service fees are as follows:

    Acupuncture Initial Office Visit: $125* ($100)

    Acupuncture Return Office Visit: $100* ($80)

    Herbal consultations: $60

*20% discount applied to acupuncture fee for payments made in full at time of service (i.e. the initial visit is $95 and return visits are $75 with the discount applied).

We accept cash, check, and credit or debit card payments.

How should I prepare for my appointment?

• Make sure you have eaten something for the meal before your appointment (e.g. if your appointment is at 10AM, make sure you eat at least a light breakfast). This is important for avoiding needle sickness - a temporary state of nausea, dizziness, and occasionally fainting after needle insertion. This is more likely to occur if needles are inserted while the patient is hungry or very full. Along these lines, it is also helpful to stay well-hydrated both before and after acupuncture.

• Wear loose, comfortable clothing: gowns and drapes will be available, but oftentimes if appropriately clothed, changing into a gown is not necessary.