Patient experience of acupuncture provision in a GP practice.

UNLABELLED: Patient experience of acupuncture at a GP surgery was evaluated over 18 months. Patients were referred for six acupuncture treatments of 45 min by 10 practising GPs. Measure Your Medical Outcome Profile (MYMOP), was completed before the first treatment and at the start of the final consultation. A patient experience survey was completed immediately after the patient's last appointment.

RESULTS: A statistically and clinically significant improvement in the mean MYMOP profile score (1.6 SD 1.3, p < 0.0000) (n = 47); reduction in medication usage; a reduction in pain and stress and improved quality of life.

CONCLUSIONS: Acupuncture provision was beneficial to patients with predominately chronic conditions. Further studies are needed to assess the cost effectiveness and long term benefit of acupuncture in the NHS.