A Pilot Study of Compassionate Care through Acupuncture

As a nurse, I imagine a more integrative approach to caring for our clients, yet there is a dilemma. When our medical doctor or nurse practitioner orders acupuncture for our patients, only one in twenty individuals is able to afford this safe, effective and evidence-based healing modality. The reality is that in most cases, insurance companies and other third-party payers do not reimburse for acupuncture or other alternative medicines. Acupuncture healed me, when western bio-medicine reached its limits in that process. I know that Traditional Chinese Medicine is a powerful healing methodology, and I want my patients to have access to its healing potential. I do everything humanly possible to help my patients get the care they need. I am very passionate about this. I choose to be proactive, to be the change I want to see in the world. I choose to prepare for the future and the inevitable changes in health care provision. I want to invite the greater community to join me in my vision and my dream for a more holistic and a more sacred way to care for ourselves and each other.

Over a period of several months in 2007 and 2008, we have been able to do a trial Compassionate Care program, providing acupuncture treatments to patients in need of this caring modality. When the doctor orders acupuncture, we refer these clients to Dr. Skelton in his acupuncture clinic. Certificates are given to these patients to receive their first treatments at no cost. Therapeutic sessions are reimbursed with Compassionate Care monies provided by F.O.A.tography and other individual contributions. Over forty referrals have been made. Patients are given different numbers of treatments based on the type of pain they are experiencing. Over 100 treatments have been provided, with most patients reporting marked relief in pain and anxiety. Since we have seen great success with our clients referred for acupuncture, through Compassionate Care, we know that this pilot program can work in the real world. We imagine that this program can be applied to other providers as well: counselors, yoga, massage or other complementary and alternative healing modalities. We know that there is great support from many arenas. And we know that the time is right for reinventing our health care delivery system.