1) Confer with your acupuncturist when seeking non-emergency primary care.** An acupuncturist will not diagnose you, but they may mention possibilities and point you in the right direction. If you don't have an acupuncturist, they come in all shapes and sizes, from the most skeptic scientist to dedicated technician to nurturing counselor. Check out my availability!
2) Support your acupuncturist's network by recommending physicians that you find exemplary. What's an exemplary physician? One who:
a) Talks to you like a person, who asks you about your lifestyle but doesn't dole out criticism.
c) Gives encouragement toward lifestyle change, but not criticism.
d) Chooses the correct plan of treatment for patients as whole individuals. Gives multiple options for treatment and allows you to decide.
3) Refrain from basing your medical education solely on the internet. If you have questions about a particular condition, ask your primary care** provider. He or she may be able to recommend literature that will help you without causing unnecessary panic.
**Professionally, in the state of Texas, acupuncture is not considered primary care. That means if you are seeking treatment for something other than substance abuse, smoking cessation, weight loss, or chronic pain, you need to see your doctor first.
