New York Moves Closer to Insurance Coverage for Acupuncture
Albany, NY – New York State is poised to expand healthcare access with potential insurance coverage for acupuncture treatments. Recent legislative progress indicates a growing momentum towards recognizing acupuncture as a legitimate and beneficial healthcare modality.
Legislative Updates
A bill, S5955B/A622C, aimed at requiring health insurance providers to cover acupuncture treatment, has passed through the New York State Senate and Assembly Insurance Committees . While a full vote by the State Senate and Assembly, as well as the Governor’s signature, are still required, the passage through these committees marks a significant step forward.
State Senator John Liu and Assembly Member Ron Kim spearheaded the legislation. Assemblyman Kim emphasized the long-standing use of acupuncture globally and its potential to grow a valuable treatment option for New Yorkers, advocating for full recognition of its benefits by insurance companies .
Acupuncture’s History in New York State
The path to legalizing and recognizing acupuncture in New York State was a decades-long effort. In the early 1960s, acupuncture practice faced legal challenges, being considered “practice without a license.” Chinese and other Asian doctors were prohibited from offering acupuncture treatments. Progress was limited to practicing under the supervision of Western-trained medical doctors or requiring a referral from them .
After years of advocacy led by Dr. David Hung, the New York State Senate and House of Representatives approved the State Independent Practice of Acupuncture Act on August 9, 1975. Governor Hugh Carey subsequently signed the bill into law, legally allowing Traditional Chinese Medicine (TCM) acupuncture doctors in New York State to practice independently .
Continuing Education Standards
Further bolstering the profession, legislation (S9223/A10187) has been introduced by Senator John Liu and Assembly Member Ron Kim to establish continuing education standards for licensed acupuncturists in New York . This aims to ensure practitioners remain up-to-date with the latest advancements in the field.
Community Engagement and Support
The push for acupuncture coverage has been supported by organizations like the Acupuncture of America Independent Practice Association (AOAIPA) . Senator John Liu has also demonstrated support through community health fairs, such as one co-organized with the BLAND Tenants Association in June 2025 .
The American Acupuncture Association (AAA) is dedicated to promoting acupuncture and moxibustion, providing knowledge to professionals, and educating the public about the benefits of these treatments . Membership options are available for students, and professionals.