Many private health insurers in the UK offer coverage for acupuncture treatments, though specifics can vary by provider and individual policy. For instance, Aviva Healthcare requires a GP or specialist referral, with each acupuncturist registering individually. AXA PPP Healthcare operates a health cash plan where patients pay the British Acupuncture Council (BAcC) practitioner and receive reimbursement, typically up to £60 per session. Benenden Health allows self-referral, assessing each claim individually to ensure the practitioner holds relevant qualifications. Bupa provides discretionary benefits on certain policies, often excluding pre-existing or chronic conditions, and may require practitioners to be registered medical professionals with specific accreditations.

To facilitate insurance claims, practitioners can register with Healthcode, a platform recognised by insurers like AXA, Vitality, and Aviva. The BAcC is the only professional body for traditional acupuncturists acknowledged by AXA and Vitality.

Given the variability among insurers and policies, it's advisable to consult your insurance provider to understand the specific terms and conditions related to acupuncture coverage. Ensuring your practitioner is a BAcC member can also help streamline the reimbursement process.

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