Questions to Ask Before a Session

How to use this checklist

Print this page or copy the questions into a note on your phone. A good practitioner should welcome questions. If you get vague answers, pressure or promises of a cure, consider another practitioner. These questions fit acupuncture, massage, yoga therapy, herbal and naturopathic care, and other approaches. For how credentials work, see choosing a qualified practitioner.

About their training and license

• What is your title, and which body licenses or certifies you? NCCIH advises finding out about education, training, licensing and certifications. [1]
• What is your license or certificate number, so I can check it with the issuing board or professional body? [2]
• Does the law in this state or country require a license for what you do? Requirements vary widely. [2]

About my situation

• Have you worked with people who have my conditions? NCCIH advises asking about training and experience with your specific needs, even if general well-being is your goal. [1]
• Are there reasons this approach could be unsafe for me? Health conditions can affect safety; for example, with glaucoma some yoga poses may not be safe. [1]
• If I take blood thinners, am pregnant, have a skin infection or have a bleeding risk, should this change? The NHS lists blood thinning medicine, bleeding risk and skin conditions or infections as reasons acupuncture may not be safe. [3]

About the treatment and the evidence

• What will happen in the session, step by step, and can I say stop at any time? (See informed consent.)
• What does research show for my specific problem? NCCIH suggests asking whether there is scientific evidence, not just personal stories. [4]
• How many sessions do you expect, and how will we know whether it is working?
• Could this treatment have side effects or interact with my medicines or supplements? NCCIH notes that some products may interact harmfully with medicines. [4]
• For needle-based treatment: are the needles sterile and single use? The FDA requires acupuncture needles to be sterile and labeled for single use only. [5]

About working with my other providers

• Are you willing to work with my doctor? NCCIH says all the professionals involved should communicate and cooperate. [1]
• Will you ask me to stop or change any prescribed medicine? If yes, stop and talk to your prescriber first. [3]

About cost and insurance

• What does each session cost, and what extra products or tests might you recommend?
• Does my insurance cover this? NCCIH advises not to assume so and to contact your insurer. [1]

During and after the session

• Tell the practitioner right away about pain, dizziness or anything uncomfortable.
• Afterward, tell your regular health care provider what you tried. [4]
• If you have a serious reaction, see reporting adverse events. In a US emergency, call 911.

Acupuncture example

For a first acupuncture visit, add: Where did you train? Do you use single-use needles? What will you do if I feel faint? Read what to expect at an acupuncture session.