HB 1203 - Acupuncture certified in South Dakota?

 Finally, we may get regulation of acupuncture in this state.

Right now, the only way you can even have a hope of getting covered for acupuncture is if you have a chiropractor do it -- and their requirements are pretty weak compared to what real, certified acupuncturists need to do to be accredited. They just aren't specialists.

I put some key points below in bold. It sure would be great if this could be passed.

LEGISLATIVE UPDATE

 

 

On Feb 9th the South Dakota Acupuncture and Oriental Medicine Association SDAOMA will be testifying in Pierre in support of Bill #1203 - a bill written to regulate the licensure and regulation of the practice of Acupuncture and Oriental medicine in the state of South Dakota.

Members of SDAOMA have been practicing in the state for many years so why do we need a bill?

The primary goals of the bill are to hold practitioners to the highest professional standard of care as recognized in 43 other united states; to protect and insure that patients are treated according to training and diagnostic methods that have been used worldwide for more than 3000 years and have been taught as masters level education in the United States since 1972.

And lastly by having Acupuncture and Oriental medicine regulated and recognized by the state as complimentary health care - it will at least open up the possibility of insurance reimbursement for care and treatment provided. Currently, even insurance companies that usually reimburse for these services, deny benefits in South Dakota as there is no state regulation.  

Acupuncture has helped many patients with both acute and chronic pain, migraines, digestive disorders, women’s health, fertility and general wellness.

As practitioners, we work closely with MD's, PT's, ND's, OT's, nurse practitioners and other medical professionals.  With Bill #1203 we will be held to similar professional standards and will be recognized as medical professionals for the care and treatment of you the patient.

Please consider supporting the bill, by writing a letter, making a phone call, sending an email, telling your friends and relatives or by joining us in Pierre on Tuesday Feb 9th at 745am.

For more information about SDAOMA go to www.sdaoma.org.
For more information about Acupuncture, please visit our website www.Acupuncture4health.com

Thank you

Kayte Halstead, MSTOM, L.Ac.
NCCAOM  #023520
President Acupuncture 4 Health
Vice President SDAOMA