peoplesacupunctureproject

The Multibed Clinic

What is a Multibed or Community acupuncture clinic?

In a multibed clinic, several people are treated together in one large room. This model is also known as a community acupuncture clinic and is part of a growing network of clinics in the country. In China, where acupuncture is part of mainstream healthcare, it is normal to treat many people together in this way and therefore multibed acupuncture could be seen as a more authentic way to practice and receive acupuncture.

It is possible for us to work in this way because acupuncture needles usually take 20-40 minutes to do their work. We are able to place needles in one patient, leave them to relax into their treatment, and then move on to another patient.

By treating more than one patient each hour, we can reduce the price of each treatment, and these savings can be passed on to you, the patient.

Being treated together

At The People’s Acupuncture Project up to 6 people will be treated at the same time within one space, bringing a community spirit to the healing experience. Patients in multibed clinics consistently report that they like the sense of togetherness and humanity they find there.  Research has shown that patients being treated in multibed clinics report many positive experiences and very few negative. (Stone, 2006).

The vast majority of patients feel very comfortable receiving acupuncture in this setting. We are aware that some people may be concerned about privacy. It isn’t usually necessary to remove clothes, as the most-frequently used points are on the arms and legs. Trousers and sleeves can be rolled up, or a skirt moved to one side, for example. For this reason, please wear loose clothing when you come for treatment. We will also have gowns, blankets and screens available if necessary. We will do everything we can to ensure you feel comfortable.