Finding the right Acupuncturist is very important. Convenience should only be part of the criteria, here are a few other things you might like to consider:
Qualifications
Your acupuncturist should have LicAc printed after their name, this will mean that they have a Licentiate Diploma. This is the qualification required for approval by the British Acupuncture Accreditation Board (BAAB). A list of the accredited colleges can be found on www.acupuncture.org.uk
Standards
The British Acupuncture Council (BAcC) only accepts people who have qualified at one of the UK’s professional colleges and taken a fully comprehensive 3-4 year course. As a member of the BAcC, they must work to the BAcC’s high standards and codes of conduct. They will also comply with specific hygiene & safety requirements and embark on Continuing Professional Development. Check the BAcC website for registered practitioners www.acupuncture.org.uk
If you wish to donate blood, only an acupuncturist who belongs to the British Acupuncture Council can issue you with certification which enables you to continue donating after receiving acupuncture.
Experience
Sometimes it is helpful and reassuring to find a practitioner who has experience in treating your particular condition. This will enable them to give you a realistic prognosis of the number of treatments required and the expected outcomes. It is important to have confidence in your practitioner, so ask as many questions as you like!
Communication
It is really important to find a practitioner with whom you feel at ease, especially if you are trying acupuncture for the first time. It is crucial that you understand all the processes and techniques involved in receiving treatment, and that there is clarity in what you are to expect from a course of treatment. This covers everything from the cost to support outside the treatment room either by telephone, text or email.