Covid-19

Regional Update - January 5, 2021

The position of the British Acupuncture Council (BAcC) is that acupuncture performed by our members is included within the definition of ‘medical services’ and will therefore be able to practice. We are supported in this classification by the Professional Standards Agency. This means that our members will practice in BAcC phase 3: Urgent care and high needs.

A Reminder of BAcC phase 3: Urgent care and high needs

It is down to individual professional judgement who fits into the category of urgent care and high needs. This can depend on whether the patient is likely to require further medication or see a GP if they weren't treated until after the lockdown. 

A consideration could also be whether treatment is time dependant such as in IVF cases. 

Cosmetic or purely wellbeing treatments are to stop, however anything affecting mental health and the maintenance of chronic pain etc could be seen as High Needs. 

A Covid risk assessment will need to be completed before the initial appointment as I am unable to treat anyone who is suspected to have Covid-19.  Subsequent verbal confirmation will be required for each follow up appointment.

Patient consultations will take place over the phone within 24hrs prior to treatment (to reduce time in the clinic room).

I will be wearing PPE including a single use mask and disposable apron for each patient. I will also wear a face shield if necessary. My clothing will be worn only in my clinic room to further minimise risk.

I will be maintaining my usual high standard of hand washing and use of sanitising gel throughout the treatment.

Masks are to worn by patients (I can provide one if needed).

My clinic room will be thoroughly cleaned, disinfected and aired between patients.

Time will be left between patient visits to allow for social distancing.