With the current challenges in our medical system, over two-thirds of Americans are taking their health into their own hands by seeking out alternative treatment for their health issues. Whether it’s insurance denying claims or doctors cutting corners, we’re in a unique and challenging time when it comes to healthcare.
Not only are Americans tired, but they are draining their bank accounts trying to keep up with changes in insurance and our broken medical system. It makes sense that people are turning toward alternative treatments like acupuncture, naturopathic medicine, and bodywork as part of their healthcare.
Even in alternative practices, care can still be expensive and for some, not feasible at all. Access to acupuncture and the high cost of individual treatment are barriers for low income and underserved populations. One solution is community acupuncture, a group-based model for acupuncture that addresses economic barriers to treatment while cultivating a sense of communal wellbeing.
Community vs. Private Acupuncture
In a traditional private acupuncture session, you’re usually in a room with only your acupuncturist. This setting offers more privacy, as well as individualized attention to your specific needs and medical history, but it also costs more.
Community acupuncture takes place in a large room with multiple other patients. The shared space makes it easy to bring along a friend, family member, or enjoy the more social environment of being with other people on their healing journey. The acupuncturist can treat several people at once, keeping costs low, making it an affordable and accessible option.
Accessible and affordable care
The community model doesn’t mean sacrificing quality of care. In a survey, patients said the results they experienced from community acupuncture were just as good, if not better, than private sessions. Patients can leave the acupuncture needles in for longer periods of time and take longer to rest after the treatment. Without the pressure of having to leave before the next patient comes in, the group model allows for a more luxurious experience and possibly increases the efficacy of the treatment.
Healing in Community
“The sense of community changes the way the treatment feels,” a patient stated in a study done on Working Class Acupuncture (Portland, OR.) the study showed that patients enjoyed the community aspect of the space and even found it therapeutic. The collective sense of healing with others in the group brings people together, fostering community and support. Our modern Western world leaves us starving for connection. The shared space of community acupuncture taps into our innate need to be with other humans and support each other, which is vital to our overall wellbeing.
Community Acupuncture at Ikigai Wellness
At Ikigai, we’re so excited to be part of the movement for accessible healthcare. Our newly expanded clinic allows us to start offering community acupuncture as an alternative or an addition to 1:1 sessions.
Community acupuncture sessions are $55, and you can add on moxa, ear seeds, or vibroacoustic therapy as part of the treatment. You’ll want to wear loose-fitting clothing that can pull over your knees and shoulders so we can access points in those areas.
Group sessions are great if you have one or two issues to address, but for more complex medical cases, individual sessions might be a better fit. This gives us time to deep dive into your concerns, medical history, and includes moxa, ear seeds, and an herbal consult.
To schedule, book online or give us a call!
