Accidents often lead to injuries that can disrupt our lives, causing pain and hindering our ability to work. In New Zealand, the Accident Compensation Corporation (ACC) steps in to support individuals dealing with disabilities or the inability to work due to accidental injuries. One of the effective treatments covered by ACC is acupuncture.
Understanding ACC Acupuncture
ACC-sponsored acupuncture therapy is a recognized form of treatment for various pains, swelling, and functional impairments resulting from accidental injuries. To be eligible for ACC-funded acupuncture:
- Residency or Employment: The individual must reside or work in New Zealand.
- Injury-Related Disability: The injury must result in disability or the inability to work.
- Treatment by Registered Acupuncturist: Acupuncture treatment must be administered by a registered acupuncturist.
ACC evaluates each case individually, and upon approval, patients may receive partial or full reimbursement for their acupuncture treatment costs. Typically, ACC covers 75% of the treatment expenses, varying based on the type of treatment.
How to Find ACC Acupuncture Near Me
You can find an acupuncturist near you by visiting the American Academy of Medical Acupuncture (AAMA) website. They have a patient referral directory that lists physicians who practice acupuncture and are available to accept new patients . You can also find qualified acupuncturists in the UK through the Association of Acupuncture Clinicians (AAC) .
If you’re looking for acupuncturists in your area, you can use the WebMD directory to find doctors who specialize in acupuncture in your city. Alternatively, you can try searching for “ACC Acupuncture” on search engines like Bing or Google to find local clinics that offer this service.
Conditions Treated by ACC Acupuncture
ACC acupuncture effectively addresses various pains and dysfunctions resulting from accidental injuries, including:
- Back pain
- Neck pain
- Shoulder pain
- Knee pain
- Ankle sprains
- Muscle strains
- Nerve damage
The Role of Acupuncture in Rehabilitation
Acupuncture, a traditional Chinese medical practice, gained official ACC support in 2003. While the existence of Qi or meridians lacks solid evidence, acupuncture’s mechanism involves adjusting the body’s energy flow and circulation by inserting needles or employing related processes like scraping, ear acupuncture, moxibustion, electroacupuncture, massage, and cupping.
While some medical authorities advocate for acupuncture in certain cases, the World Health Organization (WHO) holds a contrasting view. Despite earlier listings suggesting acupuncture’s efficacy in numerous conditions, WHO removed these mentions in 2014 due to a substantial response against their recommendations.
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Accessing ACC Acupuncture Services
In New Zealand, ACC-accredited acupuncturists, usually members of professional associations like the New Zealand Acupuncture Standards Authority (NZASA), deliver ACC-funded acupuncture therapy. ACC-approved practitioners adhere to ACC regulations, providing treatments for common injuries like back strains, tennis elbow, and calf strains.
Patients seeking ACC-accredited acupuncture services need an ACC Claim Number obtained from their family doctor, physiotherapist, or hospital physician. ACC exclusively recognizes services provided by Acupuncture NZ members for reimbursement.
Cost and Accessibility
Acupuncture services in New Zealand can be relatively expensive for patients footing the bill independently. However, for injuries resulting from accidents, ACC covers 6 to 16 sessions depending on the injury location, making it accessible for those with ACC coverage.
Conclusion
ACC acupuncture serves as a valuable rehabilitation and treatment method for accidental injuries. However, patients must acquire an ACC Claim Number and seek treatment from Acupuncture NZ-affiliated practitioners to avail themselves of ACC reimbursement.
