Our state acupuncture association the AOMAM, should be applauded for their efforts in helping to pass this legislation. This is no small feat and took many hours of work and dedication.
On the national front, Representative Hinchey from NY is a huge proponent of Acupuncture and is working with national acupuncture groups on trying to pass federal legislation for acupuncture parity. At present the bill is in the House in committee. It may help legislators to know that a statewide bill in MN, was just passed.
Previous to the passing of this bill, Health Partners covered acupuncture performed by Licensed Acupuncturists and has for more than 10 years. They have been the leader in contracting with Acupuncturists to bring the benefits of Chinese Medicine to their clients. Although, at present, their coverage is limited to ailments such as most all types of pain like-back pain, sinus pain, tooth/jaw pain, shoulder pain, etc.- nausea, PMS and Menstrual Disorders and Analgesia for medical procedures, they have blazed the trail for insurance companies in MN to bring these benefits to their customers. I expect, that as we produce more studies and clinical results showing how acupuncture can successfully treat other ailments, this list will continue to grow.
Education is the best thing Acupuncturists can do. We need to educate the public on what we do and how we can help them. 30 years ago Chiropractic seemed like this medicine that we were all a little skeptical of and now it is as mainstream and accepted as ever. Acupuncture is being accepted very quickly because as people are being helped they are spreading the word and telling their friends. This new parity bill should allow for more people to access our services and find out more about what we can do to help them.
Wishing you all good health!
Barb Fowlds L.A.
www.mpacupuncture.com
