Acupuncture in Australia: registration, what to expect, safety and costs

After a consultation, they insert fine, sterile needles at chosen points and may stimulate them by hand or with a small electrical device. Healthdirect says needles are usually left in for about 25 to 35 minutes. Some practitioners use lasers or pressure instead of needles. Chinese medicine practitioners may also offer other treatments such as herbal medicine, so ask what is proposed.

'Acupuncturist' is a protected title. The Chinese Medicine Board of Australia states that you may use it only if you are registered in that profession, or if you are another registered health practitioner whose board has endorsed you for acupuncture. Healthdirect says to qualify as an acupuncturist you must study at university for at least four years, and that you can check registration on the Ahpra website. Use the public register to confirm your practitioner before the first visit.

Other health professionals, such as some doctors, physiotherapists and chiropractors, may also provide acupuncture or dry needling. Ask about the practitioner's training.

• A health history, including medications, bleeding problems and conditions such as heart disease or lowered immunity.
• An examination and discussion of the treatment plan, including the number of sessions. Healthdirect says a course can range from 1 to 20 sessions.
• Needling with single-use sterile needles. It does not usually hurt; you may feel soreness, numbness or fullness.
• Possible side effects such as tenderness, bruising, bleeding, dizziness, nausea or infection.

Serious complications are rare but include nerve damage and organ puncture. Tell your acupuncturist if you have hepatitis B or C or HIV, take blood thinners or are pregnant, and tell your doctor you are having acupuncture.

Healthdirect says you do not need a referral and that private health extras may include acupuncture. Medicare rebates for acupuncture items apply to attendances by medical practitioners who hold acupuncture endorsement or are registered as acupuncturists with the Chinese Medicine Board; ordinary acupuncture clinics should tell you what you can claim. Ask for fees, the number of sessions and any prepaid package terms before you start.

• Eat a light meal beforehand and wear loose clothing that can be rolled up.
• Bring a list of your medicines and the details of any health conditions.
• Tell the practitioner if you are anxious about needles, and ask to lie down for the treatment.
• Do not drive home if you feel tired or sleepy afterwards, as healthdirect advises.
• Arrange a follow-up with your doctor if your symptoms persist or change.

1. Are you registered with the Chinese Medicine Board or endorsed for acupuncture? Can I see your registration?
2. Do you use single-use sterile needles?
3. What is the plan, and how will we judge whether it is working?
4. What are the risks for me, given my health and medications?
5. What are the fees, and can I claim?

• 'Acupuncture works for every condition.' Healthdirect says it can help chronic pain and some other conditions; be cautious about claims beyond that.
• 'Stop your usual treatment.' Do not delay or stop medical treatment because you are having acupuncture.
• 'Needles cannot cause harm.' Risks are low but real.

Check with a professional first. Talk to your doctor before starting if you take blood thinners, have a bleeding disorder, heart disease, low immunity, a metal allergy or some cancers, or if you are pregnant. See a doctor promptly for new or severe pain, fever or signs of infection at needle sites.