There are several important factors which go into choosing the best Chinese medicine doctor, one of which is your personal rapport with the doctor. Another important factor is verifying that the Chinese medicine doctor is properly trained and licensed. Other important considerations are experience and reputation. Medical doctors or friends can also recommend a Chinese medicine doctor they work with or have been treated by.
Chinese medicine has been around for thousands of years. It includes many modalities, and acupuncture and Chinese herbs are among the most well-known. Many Chinese medicine doctors also use massage, cupping, and moxibustion, which is the use of heated mugwort on acupuncture points. Many doctors specialize in one particular treatment, so it’s best to find out if what they use to treat can help with your particular issue before beginning treatment.
Most Chinese medicine doctors need to be licensed to practice and will have had a certain amount of education to receive that license. It is important to check the credentials of the doctor as well. If you live in an area where licensing is not required, be sure to question the doctor about the training they received. Most doctors are reputable and have received the proper training, but not all of them.
Getting a recommendation from a friend can help ease any concerns, and they can often tell you what to expect and can give valuable feedback. If you have another doctor that you see, they may also be able to recommend a Chinese medicine doctor. Finding a doctor that has good reviews on the Internet or comes recommended by a particular association, such as a medical directory, can be a viable substitute for a personal recommendation.
Finding a Chinese medicine doctor with experience is often your best option. Most reputable doctors will list their experience, what they treat, how long they have been practicing, as well as their credentials and degrees, on a website or if you ask them. While Chinese medicine treats many general maladies, most doctors have some form of specialty. If you have a specific reason to see the doctor, finding one that specializes in your particular issue is best.
While getting a personal recommendation or finding an experienced Chinese medical doctor is helpful, the rapport you have with your doctor is also important. Choose one that you feel comfortable with and practices the way that you like. Finding a Chinese medical doctor you like can be valuable for years to come.