FAQ – ACUPUNCTURE

Frequently Asked Questions About Acupuncture

Q: What can I expect during the first treatment?

The doctor will ask questions relating to the condition for which you are seeking help and questions relating to different aspect of your life. He will take your pulse, look at your tongue to decide where to apply the needles. You will get an acupuncture treatment in the first appointment.

Q: Does acupuncture hurt?

The needles are very thin, they are virtually painless when inserted, however, sometimes patients might feel tingling or sensation. Should you experience any discomfort, inform Dr. Sheng and he will adjust the needles accordingly. The needles are sterile and disposable.

Q: How long is the treatment?

Each session is about 40 minutes after needles are inserted. We ask patients to budget about 90 minutes for the session.

Q: How should I get ready for my visit?

Wear loose fitting clothing.
Do not come in with an empty stomach
Do not exert yourself before coming in.
Do not drink alcohol before coming in.
Do not exert yourself or drink alcohol after the treatment for around two hours.

Q: How many treatments do I need for my problem?

Everybody responds to acupuncture differently. Generally the doctor recommends 5-10 treatments, but there are patients who get good results after only a few treatments. Problems that have been around for a long time usually take more treatments than the ones that have come about recently.

Q: How often do I have to come?

Dr. Sheng recommends once to twice a week for the new patients. Once the condition has been controlled, the treatments can be done less frequently.

Q: Can I get acupuncture if I am pregnant?

Yes. Please do let the doctor know if you are pregnant so he knows what points not to insert needles.

Q: Is acupuncture covered by my insurance?

It is up to your insurance policy. Our office has no contract with any insurance company therefore all services are self pay. Payment is expected at time of service.

Q: Does Medicare cover acupuncture?

No.

Q: Do you file claims if my insurance policy covers acupuncture?

No. If your insurance benefit covers acupuncture, Authentic Acupuncture, LLC will provide a copy of the bill for you to send to your insurance company. Please ask for the bill at the end of your treatments. The claim address should be listed on your insurance card or you can call the customer service phone number for the address.

Q: What payment methods do you accept?

We accept checks, cash, Visa or Master card. Payment is expected at time of service.

Q: I suffered injury from a car accident. There is a lawsuit going on, can I sign a guarantee of payment and receive the treatments now. I will make payment when the lawsuit settles?

Our policy is to make payment at each treatment session. We do not accept guarantee of payment.

Q: I have a trust that handles all of my medical bills, can I get the treatments now and your office bills my trust at the end of the entire treatment plan?

Our policy is to make payment at each treatment session. We do not bill your trust later.

Q: Does Workers’ Comp cover acupuncture?

You have to be referred by your Primary Care Physician for the first visit. After the first visit, our office will send in a C-9 form to request for authorization for treatments. We will call you to schedule further appointments if the authorization is granted.

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