When I first moved to Seattle 3 years ago, I was interested in trying acupuncture to help reduce stress, alleviate digestive issues, and increase overall movement of chi ("life force") in my body. I found a wonderful acupuncturist but unfortunately my health insurance didn't cover "alternative therapies." Since each appointment cost $75 and it was recommended I schedule two visits per week, I found I could only see the acupuncturist for a short period of time. While I noticed positive changes right away, I knew $150/wk for acupuncture wouldn't fit into my budget long-term. Unfortunately I was only able to see the acupuncturist for a month or so. Acupuncture is an effective healing therapy but it can often take lots of frequent visits to really reap the total benefits.

Recently I was interested in trying acupuncture again but knew I couldn't spend $75 per appointment. I had heard of community acupuncture and was curious to give it a try. I did some research and found a wonderful community acupuncture clinic (http://greenpointacupuncture.net/default.aspx) in Queen Anne. Green Point operates on a $15-$40 per visit sliding fee scale. You pay what you can afford and there are no questions asked about your current income. At the end of your visit, you simply leave your payment in an envelope.

What are the benefits of community acupuncture? For me the cost savings was by far the greatest benefit. Since I no longer have to pay $75 per visit, I will be able to continue acupuncture for a longer period of time. I have also noticed there are more appointments available with community acupuncture. When you are seeing a popular acupuncturist with only 1-2 private rooms, you often have to wait for an extended period to get in for an appointment. Since community acupuncture clinics offer a number of beds in one room, the acupuncturist can see multiple patients at one time.

What are the drawbacks of community acupuncture? If you are a private person and are uncomfortable with other people around you, community acupuncture may not be the best fit. With that being said, the majority of the patients in the room are sleeping so I have never found myself feeling self-conscious with other people around.  If you are bothered by snoring or occassional quiet talking between a patient and the doctor, I would recommend bringing ear plugs or listening to music.

I have seen Dr. Wang at Green Point Acupuncture three times now and I have already noticed significant changes in my health. I sleep well, feel very relaxed, and don't have as severe of digestive issues. Dr. Wang is one of the most caring healing professionals I have ever met. She always seems concerned for patients and remembers valuable information about the health of her patients.

I highly recommend Green Point Acupuncture: http://greenpointacupuncture.net/Schedule.aspx

As a final note, all new patients receive their first appointment free during the month of October. Contact Green Point today to get in for a FREE visit before the end of the month.