House Bill To Provide Veterans with Acupuncture Access

"Buddha's Triangle"

"Acupuncture for Our Heroes Act" was introduced in the House of Representatives last week.  This bill would require acupuncture to be available at veterans' health facilities.  It's about time! Acupuncture has been increasingly used in active duty military situations, so why shouldn't is also benefit our veterans? 

​Acupuncture offers a non-addictive and effective alternative to opiates for pain management.  Nearly 82% of veterans seeking medical treatment reported having some level of chronic pain.  According to a 2014 guide from the Department of Veterans Affairs, people in the Veterans Affairs health system are nearly twice as likely to die from an overdose as compared to the non-veteran population.  Providing acupuncture for veterans and their families can help to reduce the dependence on opioids for pain management, thereby reducing the possibility of abuse or overdose.

Unfortunately, a lack of understanding about acupuncture and traditional Chinese medicine makes it difficult for many to experience its benefits since few insurance companies cover treatments.  This means fewer options for pain and stress management at a time when we need more options.

Acupuncture is part of the traditional Chinese medicine healthcare system.  It involves inserting tiny needles at specific points on the body to elicit a therapeutic effect.  While you may feel the initial insertion, the sensation should be brief and mild.  The World Health Organization has an extensive list of conditions that acupuncture has proven to help.  

Acupuncture is another method of helping people manage their physical and emotional pain.  After consistent acupuncture treatments, most people notice increased mental clarity and focus, deeper sleep, more energy, lower stress, less anxiety and irritability, less hyper-vigilance, fewer flashbacks and nightmares, and improved outlook on life.

I love seeing the benefits of acupuncture are becoming more and more accepted! Hopefully this legislation will mean more available healthcare for our vets and also help improve the image and understanding of acupuncture.

Have a specific question?  Let me know.  I'm happy to answer them!