Getting started
Your first acupuncture appointment: what to ask and what to bring
A first visit is a chance to explain why you are seeking care and decide whether the proposed approach makes sense for you. You do not need to know acupuncture terminology to ask useful questions.
Before you book
Tell reception whether you are a new patient and whether you want acupuncture, an herbal consultation or massage. Ask who offers that service, where the appointment takes place, how long it lasts and what it costs. If you are booking for a particular concern, mention it when asking which practitioner to see.
Bring the information that helps your practitioner
Prepare a short timeline of your main symptoms and a list of medications, supplements and current treatments. Note any diagnoses, relevant procedures, pregnancy considerations or prior experiences with acupuncture. Share health information through the clinic’s approved intake process, rather than a public website form.
Questions worth asking in the room
What are we trying to improve? What will the appointment involve? What benefits, risks and alternatives should I consider? How will we decide whether treatment is helping? When should I contact you, and when should I contact another clinician?
Leave with a clear next step
Before leaving, make sure you understand any proposed follow-up, its cost, and how progress will be reviewed. You can ask for clarification before agreeing to additional care.