Monterey Acupuncture Standards of Conduct

At Monterey Acupuncture, we believe that healing happens best in an environment of respect, safety, and integrity. These standards outline how we care for our patients, how we work as practitioners, and how we honor the trust placed in us. They are built on the ethical expectations of the California Acupuncture Board and our unwavering commitment to providing ethical, respectful, and professional care.

Legal and Regulatory Compliance

Laws and Oversight: All treatments are provided in accordance with California law, federal regulations, and the standards of the California Acupuncture Board (CAB).
Licensure and Certification: Every practitioner at Monterey Acupuncture holds a current and valid California acupuncture license and maintains any additional certifications required for their services.
Scope of Practice: We only provide therapies (acupuncture, massage, cupping, herbal medicine, and related techniques) that are permitted within the legal boundaries of the CAB’s defined scope of practice.
Record Keeping: We maintain accurate, complete, and confidential patient records, including treatment notes, informed consent forms, and any required follow-up documentation, in compliance with CAB and HIPAA regulations.

Professional Conduct

Monterey Acupuncture does not tolerate discrimination or harassment of any kind, including but not limited to race, color, ethnicity, national origin, religion, gender, gender identity, sexual orientation, age, disability, or immigration status.
We maintain clear and appropriate professional boundaries with every patient, avoiding any form of sexual misconduct, exploitation, or behavior that could compromise trust.
We are truthful and transparent in all aspects of our practice, including how we describe our services, the claims we make, and the way we bill for care.
All communication, written or spoken, reflects honesty and professionalism.
We prioritize the patient’s best interests, offering treatments that are clinically appropriate and aligned with their needs, not driven by unnecessary services or financial gain.
Our goal is to provide care that is safe, effective, and grounded in mutual trust and respect.

Safety and Clean Technique

Acupuncture is performed using sterile, single-use needles, applied according to Clean Needle Technique standards.
Massage, cupping, moxibustion, and other therapies follow strict hygiene and infection control practices.
Treatment rooms, linens, and tools are cleaned and prepared for each patient.
We monitor for any adverse reactions during treatment and respond immediately if they occur.

Privacy and Confidentiality

We respect the trust you place in us and safeguard all health information (written, spoken, or electronic) with the highest level of confidentiality.
All patient records are stored securely, whether in physical or digital form, and are protected in accordance with HIPAA regulations and applicable California privacy laws.
We limit access to patient records to authorized personnel directly involved in your care.
Information is never shared with third parties without your written consent, except when required by law (such as to protect your safety or the safety of others, or in compliance with a court order or public health mandate).
Conversations between you and your practitioner are private and will not be discussed with others unless you authorize it or disclosure is legally required.
We take additional steps to protect confidentiality in shared or open clinic spaces, ensuring private discussions occur in settings that maintain your comfort and privacy.
Patients are encouraged to ask questions about how their information is stored, used, and protected.

Informed Choice

We believe you have the right to fully understand your care before agreeing to any treatment. You are encouraged to ask questions at any point, before, during, or after your session, and to request further clarification whenever needed. We will not proceed with treatment without your voluntary and informed consent, which may be given in writing or verbally depending on the procedure. Before treatment begins, we explain: The purpose of the therapy, expected benefits, potential risks or side effects, and any alternatives you might consider.
You have the right to ask questions, request changes, or stop treatment at any time. Consent is an ongoing process. You have the right to change your mind, pause, or stop treatment at any time without fear of judgment or penalty.

Boundaries

The therapeutic relationship is built on trust, respect, and professionalism. Any form of sexual contact, harassment, exploitation, or suggestive behavior, by either patient or practitioner, is strictly prohibited. Inappropriate comments, gestures, or conduct from patients will result in the immediate termination of the session and may lead to discontinuation of care.
Physical contact is limited to therapeutic purposes directly related to your treatment plan and will always be explained before being applied.
We maintain clear and consistent professional boundaries with every patient at all times, both inside and outside of the clinic. Practitioners will not engage in dual relationships (such as business or romantic involvement) that could impair their professional judgment or create a conflict of interest.
All staff and practitioners are trained to recognize and respond to boundary violations quickly and appropriately. Patients are encouraged to speak up immediately if they ever feel uncomfortable, disrespected, or uncertain about any aspect of their care.

Herbal Medicine

We will review your current medications, supplements, and health history before prescribing any herbs to minimize the risk of interactions or adverse effects. We do not guarantee specific outcomes from herbal treatment, as responses vary from person to person.
Herbal formulas are prescribed based on your individual health profile and the professional judgment of your practitioner. Herbs should be taken only as directed, in the recommended dosages, and stored in a cool, dry, and safe place out of the reach of children and pets.
Use of herbal medicine is voluntary, and patients assume responsibility for following directions exactly as provided. Failure to follow instructions, combining herbs with unapproved substances, or self-adjusting dosage may increase risk and release Monterey Acupuncture from liability related to improper use.
Patients should consult their primary care provider or specialist before beginning herbal treatment, especially if they are pregnant, nursing, have chronic medical conditions, or are taking prescription medications.
All herbal products are sourced from reputable suppliers who meet applicable safety and quality standards; however, as with any ingestible product, there is an inherent risk of allergic reaction or adverse response. You must inform us immediately of any allergic reactions, unexpected side effects, or changes in your health that occur while taking prescribed herbs.

Ongoing Professional Growth

All licensed acupuncturists at Monterey Acupuncture complete Continuing Education every two years, meeting the California Acupuncture Board’s requirements.
We actively engage in ongoing professional development to stay current with the latest research, techniques, and best practices in acupuncture, massage, cupping, and herbal medicine. Our continuing education is guided in part by the recommendations of the American Academy of Medical Acupuncture (AAMA), ensuring our care reflects both traditional wisdom and modern evidence-based medicine.

Your Role as a Patient

Ask questions whenever you are unsure about any part of your care, and speak up immediately if something feels uncomfortable or unclear.
Follow treatment plans, home care instructions, and herbal dosage directions exactly as provided, and notify your practitioner if you have difficulty doing so.
Inform us promptly of any side effects, unexpected symptoms, or changes in your health between visits.
Respect clinic policies, boundaries, and appointment times so that care runs smoothly for all patients.
Recognize that failure to follow recommendations, misuse of herbs or home care instructions, or withholding relevant health information may limit treatment effectiveness and release Monterey Acupuncture from liability related to those outcomes.

By choosing Monterey Acupuncture, you agree to help us maintain an atmosphere of trust, safety, and mutual respect so that healing can happen in a secure and protected environment for all.