Complementary Therapists
Complementary Therapists I wanted to have some acupuncture to help with hot flushes with an acupuncturist (not a GP) who practices at my GP’s surgery. I am with BUPA and they cover alternative therapies. Brilliant, I thought, I will save myself some money. I telephoned BUPA to obtain their authorisation for my visit, only to be told that they only pay acupuncturists on their “list” who have to be practicing doctors too.
Do I assume that BUPA only think acupuncture should be practiced by qualified doctors?
What qualifications should I look for in someone practicing alternative therapies, and should they have to tell you what qualifications they have before treating you?
I initially thought that if they were registered with a professional organisation they would be ok, according to BUPA this is not the case, does anyone have any advice for me please?
BUPA give this contact on their website. Perhaps it would worth contacting them for advice?
British Medical Acupuncture Society
Newton House
Newton Lane
Whitley
Warrington
WA4 4JA
Tel: 01925-730727
Fax: 01925-730492
Email:Bmasadmin-at-aol.com
Website:www.medical-acupuncture.co.uk
Hi Phoebe Thanks for replying.
It would seem that membership of the BMAS is open most UK-based health professionals who are subject to statutory regulation. The list includes doctors, dentists, physiotherapists, nurses, midwives, health visitors, osteopaths, chiropractors, and podiatrists.
The acupuncturist based at my GP’s surgery is a member of the British Acupuncture Council.
It would appear that the BMAS only recognise those from a medical background, and maybe if you are considering consulting an acupuncturist for a medical reason only one from the BMAS is suitable.
RMW Hi Rita
The answer to your question about whether all alternative medical practioners should hold qualifications and whether they should tell patients before treating them is no. However, all reputable therapists, and all reputable agencies who employ alternative therapists will give patients details of therapists qualifications as a matter of course to enable them to make an informed choice about their medical treatment.
Hope this helps
Best wishes
Roisin