How to Choose an Acupuncturist: A Practical Checklist

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Many people search for "acupuncturist near me." We do not list or rank practitioners, clinics or schools, and nothing here implies that any person is licensed. This page explains how to check for yourself. NCCIH advises choosing a complementary health practitioner with the same care you would use in choosing a conventional medical provider. [1]

Seek medical care first for new, severe or worsening symptoms. NCCIH says not to use acupuncture to postpone seeing a health care provider about a health problem. [2] In the US, call 911 for an emergency.

The checklist

1. Ask your own doctor first. NCCIH suggests checking with your doctor or other health care provider for names, and notes that a nearby hospital or medical school, professional organizations, state licensing boards or your insurer may help. NCCIH itself cannot refer you. [3]

2. Work out what kind of professional it is. A licensed acupuncturist, a physician, a dentist or a physical therapist may all offer needling, under different rules. [4][5] See titles explained and who else offers acupuncture.

3. Verify the license with the regulator. Use the official lookup for your state, province or country, not the clinic's own wall or website. California's board says it cannot give referrals but can tell you whether a license is valid, delinquent or has an action against it. [4] State rules differ: see acupuncture licensing by US state and licensing and training.

4. Ask about training. NCCIH advises finding out about education, training, licensing and certifications. [3] In Texas, US schools accepted for licensure must be accredited by ACAHM. [6] See acupuncture schools and accreditation.

5. Ask about needles and hygiene. The FDA requires acupuncture needles to be sterile and single use. [2] California treats reusing a needle as unprofessional conduct. [4] NCCAOM requires a Clean Needle Technique certificate for its certification. [7]

6. Tell them everything about your health. NCCIH advises explaining all your conditions and asking about the practitioner's experience with people who have them. [3] The NHS says acupuncture may not be safe if you take blood-thinning medicine, are at increased risk of bleeding, or have a skin condition or skin infection. [8] See who should avoid or take extra care.

7. Ask whether they will work with your other providers. NCCIH says safe, coordinated care depends on everyone communicating. [3]

8. Ask about cost and insurance before you start. Do not assume your plan covers it; NCCIH says plans differ greatly and restrictions may apply. [3]

Questions to bring

• What is your license or registration, and where can I verify it?
• Where did you train?
• Are all needles sterile and single use?
• What is this treatment meant to achieve, and how will we know if it is helping?
• How many visits do you expect, and what happens if it is not helping?

More prompts are on questions to ask an acupuncturist before starting and choosing a qualified practitioner.

If something goes wrong

California's board says complaints and investigations are not subject to public disclosure, although a formal accusation is. [4] ACAHM advises that health concerns such as clean needle technique go to local or state health departments and the state licensing board. [11] See reporting an acupuncture adverse event or complaint.