If you’re looking for a complementary health practitioner—such as an acupuncturist, chiropractor, or massage therapist—to help you manage a health problem, it’s important to be as careful and thorough in your search as you are when looking for conventional health care. Here are some tips:
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If you need names of practitioners in your area, first check with your doctor or other health care provider. A nearby hospital, professional organizations, or your health insurance provider may also be able to suggest some names.
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Find out as much as you can about any potential practitioner, including education, training, licensing, and certifications. The credentials required for complementary health practitioners vary from state to state and from discipline to discipline.
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Don’t assume that your health insurance will cover the practitioner’s services. It’s a good idea to contact your health insurance provider and ask. Insurance plans differ greatly in what complementary approaches they cover. And even if your insurance does cover a particular approach, there may be restrictions or limits on your coverage.
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