Is Acupuncture safe?
Yes. All licensed acupuncturists today use individually packaged, pre-sterilized, disposable needles. Practitioners undergo 3-4 years of graduate-level training, covering both Eastern and a substantial amount of Western medicine, and must then pass rigorous provincial licensing exams before practicing.
What modalities might be used in your treatment?
Acupuncture
Acupuncture consists of the gentle insertion of fine, sterile, disposable needles into strategic points near the surface of the body. These points, which are effective in treating disease, have been mapped by the Chinese over a period of two thousand years.
Cupping
Cupping is a form of traditional medicine used in many cultures all over the world. It involves the practitioner creating vacuum in a cup, and then applying the cup to the patient’s body. Cupping is very effective in treating patients with digestive problems, menstrual problems, respiratory problems like coughing or wheezing, as well as with many other aches and pains. Cupping has also been found to affect the body up to four inches deep. It causes the tissues to release toxins, triggers the lymphatic system, clears colon blockages, and helps stimulate and clear the veins, arteries and capillaries.
Moxibustion
There are many benefits to Moxibustion Therapy. Clinically it increases blood cell counts especially that of white blood cells which strengthens the immune system. The heat produced from the burning moxa penetrates deeply into underlying tissues improving circulation and helping to reduce both pain and inflammation. If done properly, the heat of the Moxibustion can penetrate into the core of the pain location and has results far surpassing that of pain medication.
How many times will I need to come?
This depends on the condition and development of the illness, but it is common for patients to see relief from their symptoms after 2-6 treatments. A general guide to follow is that chronic conditions that have been present for a year or longer will take a few months to restore to health. Conditions that started a few months ago will take a few weeks to heal, and for acute situations that appeared in the last few days it will take 1-3 sessions to resolve.
It is a good practice to start treatment as soon as possible when the symptoms first appear and to commit to the treatment plan to ensure maximum benefits. On the onset of care, patients come once or twice a week. As the condition improves the visits decrease until it is only necessary to come once a month for maintenance treatments. Many of our patients visit us monthly for a balancing session to strengthen their immune system, relieve stress and prevent future illness.
What is your cancellation policy?
A minimum of 24 hours notice is required for cancellation of appointments. For anything less, full fees will apply.
Are your services tax deductible?
Many services provided at Heartwood Wellness qualify as tax deductible medical expenses under Canada Revenue Agency legislation. For a detailed list of eligible expenses, see their website at www.cra.gc.ca and for a list of authorized practitioners.
Are your services covered under MSP?
Medical Services Plan of BC (MSP) funding for acupuncture treatment is available for people receiving premium assistance. A doctor’s referral is NOT required. MSP pays for a combined annual limit of 10 visits for acupuncture treatment, massage therapy, physiotherapy, chiropractic, naturopathy and non-surgical podiatry. MSP covers $23.00 per visit for a total of $230 annually.
Are your services covered by my Extended Health Plan?
Some of the fees for our services may be covered under your extended health plan, and reimbursed by your insurance carrier. We strongly advise that you contact your insurance company directly to confirm coverage. Extended health benefits vary from plan to plan and coverage for acupuncture therapy is usually between 70-100% of treatment fees. Some plans offer a dollar amount per year instead of a percentage. To receive Extended Health Benefits insurance reimbursement, we provide a receipt for you to directly submit to your provider. We recommend that you submit your receipts regularly – each 3 months or so is a good habit to get into.
What should I know when choosing an Acupuncturist?
Here is what you need to know about Acupuncture credentials and licensing in British Columbia, BC.
What are my payment options?
Accepted forms of payment include Cash, Debit, Visa, MC, Amex, E-transfer and Paypal. Please note that all acupuncture treatments are GST exempt.
