www.meganmerchant.com
4. Expectations: Treatment is generally very relaxing, and it
is not uncommon for patients to fall asleep. At the end of your
treatment, your practitioner will return to painlessly remove the
needles. At your first treatment, which is typically 1.5 hours
(subsequent treatments about one hour), expect a lengthy exam (DOMs are
known for their detailed diagnostics) in a private room, between
yourself and your practitioner, including a series of questions about
your specific issues as well as all your other bodily processes.
Tip: Be sure to mention every symptom that you have,
even if it seems unrelated. Knowing all your symptoms is crucial in
making a correct diagnosis.
5. Diagnosis/Prescription: Your practitioner will take your
pulses (yes, we take 9, not 1) to assess the state of all your organ
systems, and look at your tongue (the most exterior representation of
your internal self). He/she may palpate certain points/areas on your
body (especially if you have pain) and will be observing other aspects
of your body/demeanor. All these things lead the practitioner to a
working diagnosis upon which they will base your treatment plan. After
the initial lengthy diagnosis procedure, following treatments are
fairly simple - you give updates on your symptoms and any changes since
your last treatment, talk about any new info that might be important,
and do a quick tongue and pulse check....then needles.
Tip: Be aware that you are entitled to at least a basic
explanation of your diagnosis and treatment plan and ask what lifestyle
changes would be helpful. Also, don’t be afraid to ask your
practitioner anything that might help you better understand either your
specific diagnosis or the medicine in general. Most are happy to
empower patients with information that will give them a deeper
understanding and ability to help themselves.
6. What is the cost? Most insurance plans reimburse for
acupuncture these days, and many practitioners will either bill for you
(in which case, you will only pay a co-pay if your deductible is met) or
provide you with paperwork that you can submit to your insurance
company for reimbursement. If you pay cash, a typical acupuncture
treatment will cost anywhere from $55-75 (with the first consultation
costing a bit more). There is frequently a cash discount and or
discount for paying ahead for multiple treatments; some offices even
offer payment plans and sliding scale fees.
Tip: Tipping is optional. If you enjoy your experience
and find benefit from it, please spread the word. DOMs work on
referrals and are thrilled when their patients are happy with their
treatment and tell their friends!
Have more questions or need more information?
Dr. Jaymie Hettler can be reached at dr.jaymie@gmail.com. Thanks, Jaymie!
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