All About Community Acupuncture
Looking to manage your pain and overall well-being? You have come to the right place. According to the American Academy of Family Physicians, acupuncture can be effective in the treatment for chronic pain. After extensive research, you have decided to give acupuncture a try! We here at AcuMantras know you have questions about available options. One of those is community acupuncture. Our team of acupuncturists sat down to answer some of the most frequent patient questions we receive on the treatment.
I’m looking for an affordable acupuncture clinic. Do you have any advice on finding one?
Yes! Acupuncture can be covered by insurance, but there are more affordable services to choose from, including community acupuncture. Community acupuncture is exactly as it sounds. It is acupuncture in a group setting as compared to the private one-on-one set-up. During your initial consultation, be sure to ask if this is an option. Not all clinics offer this service, but a non-profit service like ours is committed to providing affordable access to traditional Chinese medicine. Be sure to do research and ask any and all questions
I have heard of acupuncture, but what is community acupuncture?
In traditional Chinese acupuncture, the group setting is the typical set-up. As mentioned, this combined treatment environment is ideal for anyone looking for a more affordable option compared to private acupuncture. Treatments can be covered by insurance, but if that is not an option, this is a great alternative that delivers the same results. Group acupuncture even provides regular patients the opportunity to introduce family and friends to the practice.
What can I expect during group acupuncture?
Community acupuncture can be nerve wrecking, but after the first session, will prove to be a viable option. Despite having “classmates,” rest assured that group sessions take place in a comfortable setting. At AcuMantras, you can sit back and relax on one of our extra comfortable stations, listening to the room’s soft music. These sessions are designed to be tranquil, so a peaceful, relaxed state can still be achieved. Many fall asleep. Due to the group setting, you can rest assured that our acupuncturists will respect everyone's privacy. This means only treating areas such as hands, feet, neck, arms and legs. Since this is a group setting, we ask that others keep the rest of the group in mind.
Please arrive early to check in for your session. Call ahead if you might not be able to attend a reserved spot so we may offer it to someone else. Please refrain from talking to others during the session so as to not disturb others. We also ask for flexibility. Due to COVID safety protocols, recliners are socially distanced, so we do have limited spots per class. Don’t worry! Each has your best interest in mind.
Do you have advice on what to wear to community acupuncture?
Acupuncture is all about the flow of energy. Johns Hopkins Medicine cites more than 2,000 points on the body that can help shape a pathway of this energy. Be comfortable! Many believe undressing is necessary for treatment. This is simply not true. However, we do recommend wearing loose fit clothing or bringing something more fresh (e.i. shorts, tank tops) so that we can easily reach your acupuncture points. While we have blankets and music, feel free to bring your own comfort items. All stuffed animals are welcome! Many bring face and eye masks to provide an extra layer of peace. Wear and bring whatever makes you feel best.
If I’m in a community style acupuncture session, how do I know I will achieve the same level of service?
Customer service runs through our veins. AcuMantra’s mission is to ensure that you have the best experience for YOU! Our acupuncturists will make their way over to each and every patient in the room. They will carefully review charts and requests, making sure to deliver the same level of quality care as a private session. Class sessions run 90 minutes, and you are welcome to stay the entire time. We understand every person responds to acupuncture differently. Please do not feel obligated to stay the entire session. With a simple flag to our team, we will adjust or remove any needles when you are ready.
How much does acupuncture cost?
This is the question of the century! A private session can typically cost around $100, but, depends on the treatment plan drafted in the initial consultation. Community acupuncture can cost about one fourth the cost of a private session depending on the studio and situation. If cost is of issue, there are some additional options.
Can you tell me more about a typical acupuncture cost is calculated?
Many factors go into determining the cost of acupuncture. Sessions can vary in time and extensiveness depending on the plan of treatment. Again, an acupuncturist can tell you more during an initial consultation. Here, you can discuss your experience, concerns, expectations and ask any questions you might have.
What is sliding scale acupuncture?
As a non-profit, we understand the need for affordable care. Sliding scale is another form of affordable treatment. With this model, patients pay on a case by case basis. This does not impact the quality of care, but rather provides additional access to those who are truly interested in exploring acupuncture. How does it work? Essentially, each class is subject to a new fee. Different factors go into determining the price. These include day and time and length of the session, and removes that flat rate. Word of mouth is important for this model, so all referrals are appreciated! Talk to your AcuMantras team today by calling to learn more about this option.
How does working class acupuncture work?
With the group acupuncture model, patients pay what they can. Those fees are used to help fund future classes. This grassroots set-up relies on word of mouth. Think of it as a fundraiser to help pay for something nice and shiny in the future. The more we invest now, the better support we will have later. These are typically seen in non-profit clinics like ours.
Choosing an acupuncture clinic and plan of treatment is an important decision. Our team is here for you every step of the way. Visit our website, give us a call at (954) 408-8224 or connect with us on Instagram or Facebook. The AcuMantras team is here to help you and your family make the best decision possible. Our office is conveniently located in Broward County, serving all of South Florida. We’re looking forward to helping you feel your best!
Looking for more resources? Here are a few places you can learn more:
Want to donate to help keep prices affordable? Find out how to be a sponsor, here.
Read the latest AcuMantras COVID-19 community updates, here.
Make sure to book your first community acupuncture session, here.