FAQ

The mechanism of acupuncture is still being studied extensively. There are thousands of studies that demonstrate acupuncture’s efficacy, although how acupuncture works is not known in all cases. Acupuncture points lie over nerve branches, and one proposed mechanism is that the stimulation of these nerves with an acupuncture needle regulates the nervous system to normalize physiology. Research has proven that acupuncture decreases inflammation, increases blood flow, decreases stress hormones, increases endorphins, and regulates hormones.

Please visit our insurance verification page for the most up-to-date information. At the time of writing, Revive Acupuncture is in-network with the following insurance carriers:

• Cigna
• United Health Care
• Sutter Select
• Medrisk
• Homelink

Revive Acupuncture is out-of-network with the following insurance carriers:

• Aetna
• Anthem Blue Cross
• Blue Shield
• Blue Cross Blue Shield 
• American Health Specialty
• Health Net

Revive Acupuncture will accept some insurance policies out-of-network.  This is decided on a case-to-case basis depending on the coverage of the out-of-network insurance plan.

Blue Shield policies are processed uniquely at Revive Acupuncture.  For patients with Blue Shield policies that include out-of-network acupuncture benefits there are two payment options:

1) Patients can opt to pay the full insurance rate at the time of service.  Revive Acupuncture will bill the Blue Shield policy for the sessions incurred and then Blue Shield will send reimbursement checks directly to the patients.

2) Patients can opt to pay at a discounted out-of-pocket rate, and then patients can request medical receipts from Revive Acupuncture to submit to Blue Shield for reimbursement.

We provide benefit checks for all insurance carriers with the exception of Blue Shield.  For patients with Blue Shield insurance, please call the member services contact number on the back of your insurance card to learn your out-of-network acupuncture benefits.

For patients with all other insurance policies outside of Blue Shield, please go to our Insurance Verification page to request a benefits check.

Acupuncture uses extremely thin needles. When the needle is inserted most people feel a slight sensation, however, some individuals feel no pain at all. Let the acupuncturist know if you have anxiety about needles, and he or she will be especially sensitive and can use pediatric needles if you prefer.

Acupuncture points cover the entire body, but the commonly used points are below the elbow, below the knee, on the abdomen, on the back, and on the head.