FAQs

Q: What is Acupuncture?

A: Acupuncture is a complex branch of ancient Chinese medicine that is based on principles developed in China over the past 3000 years. The foundation in which these principles are set is that there is a subtle life energy, called Qi (pronounced chee), circulating though all parts of the body via energy channels, called meridians. These meridians connect our head, torso, arms, hands, legs, feet, and all internal organs. According to Chinese medical theory, pain and illness results when the smooth, cyclical flow of Qi in the meridians becomes blocked or unbalanced. An Acupuncturist uses acupuncture needles to stimulate specific points along the meridians. This stimulation helps restore balance and the smooth flow of Qi so all parts of the body can work together in harmony as intended. This harmony allows the body to repair itself and maintain health.

Q: How much does it cost?
A: All office visits are approximately one hour in length. Your first appointment is $100 and follow-up visits are $80.  All payments are due at the time of service. We accept cash, check, debit cards and Visa/MasterCard/Discover credit cards.

Q: Why 5 initial treatments?
A: I typically recommend that new patients begin care with a brief course of 5 Acupuncture treatments over the course of 2 to 3 weeks. During this time period you will have an opportunity to experience Acupuncture for yourself and I will have an opportunity to work with you closely to monitor, and to continue to adjust your care. At your fifth treatment I will do a Patient Evaluation with you. We will determine if any further care is necessary for you to achieve your health and wellness goals.

Your treatment is individually tailored to meet your own special needs.

Over the course of 15 years in Private Practice I have observed that most patients begin their Acupuncture care out of sense of “having tried everything else.” If you have had a painful condition that has become chronic (lasted for more than 6 months) it would be reasonable to assume that some level of care would be necessary in order to help change that established painful condition. If your condition is not as long standing you may generally expect to feel better a bit more quickly. If your general health is good and you are looking to establish a Wellness Plan you will require much less care.

Q: What are the goals of Acupuncture?
A: Here at Olympic Acupuncture we focus on three possible levels of care. The first is to relieve pain (or the symptom) that brought you into care. The second level is to begin addressing the underlying condition. Pain relief is a great thing, but it’s even better if the condition that caused it can be resolved. The third and highest level of care is a Wellness or Maintenance Program. At this level of care, working together we will identify the best program to help you stay at your new level health.

Q: Will insurance cover Acupuncture and herbs?
A: We DO NOT submit billing for insurance (with the exception of PIP - Personal Injury Protection insurance for injuries sustained in an auto accident); however your personal insurance may cover your Acupuncture expenses. We are happy to provide you with the appropriate insurance forms for you to submit for your own direct reimbursement. Most insurance companies do not reimburse for the cost of herbs or vitamin/mineral supplements.

Q: Does Medicare cover Acupuncture?
A: Medicare does not cover any costs associated with Acupuncture care. You may choose to submit billing to Medicare and upon rejection submit your request to your secondary insurance.

Q: How do I schedule an appointment?
A: Call us at 360-417-8870 or email us at:  info@olympicacupuncture.com

More Questions?

Email your questions directly to Pat at:  patflood@olympicacupuncture.com.   Please allow for up to 3 working days for a direct reply.

Or:

Check the link for the Washington Acupuncture and Oriental Medicine Association at www.waoma.org for more answers to general questions about Acupuncture.