FREQUENTLY ASKED QUESTIONS
How does the free consultation work?
If you’re a prospective client, you can avail of our free 15-minute telehealth consultation using our Telehealth service. During this consultation, you will have the opportunity to discuss your case and to ask us questions about how our treatments work. We will let you know if we think we can help you. In the rare event that we cannot, we may be able to recommend another course of action. At the end of the consultation, you will have the opportunity to book your initial visit.
How many treatments will I need?
There is no blanket rule about the number of treatment sessions you will need. We treat you according to your individual needs. As a rough guide, a single course of treatment for chronic or serious health problems is ten sessions. Several courses may be required for some conditions, such as a serious autoimmune disease or Multiple Sclerosis. The free 15 consultation provides a great opportunity to briefly discuss your issue and to obtain an initial treatment plan.
Does acupuncture hurt?
People generally find acupuncture to be a highly relaxing experience. Hence they come back again and again. Occasionally, you may feel a slight prick or an aching sensation, but generally, acupuncture doe not hurt. At Frankston Family Natural Medicine, we approach acupuncture with great care and sensitivity, and we are more than happy to take extra care for those that are experiencing acupuncture for the first time or are afraid of needles. Clients who have experienced “dry needling” will be especially pleased with the gentleness of our acupuncture.
Is Herbal Medicine Safe?
In the hands of a skilled professional, herbal medicine is very safe, and side effects are rare.
To ensure your safety, Dr Ruth has made it her mission to understand the nature of each and every medicinal product in her extensive pharmacy. With years of experience behind her, she is also well accustomed to working with clients who are taking lots of medications to reduce the possibility of interaction effects.
Does it taste awful?
Many patients report back that they love the taste of their Herbal Medicine, and enjoy taking it. However, occasionally, the Herbal Medicine does not taste very good. We will give you advice about how to reduce any unpleasant tastes.
I’ve heard Chinese herbal medicine uses endangered animals, like Rhino horn, is that right?
Frankston Family Natural Medicine strongly supports and strictly adheres to the moral and legal obligations to protect endangered species and plants. Here in Australia, it is illegal to import any endangered plants or animal species. Australia is also a signatory to the CITES agreement (Conservation on International Trade in endangered Species of Wildlife Fauna and Flora).
What if I don’t believe in Chinese Medicine and Acupuncture?
The services we provide are not a faith healing system and not based on any religion. The power of your individualised Herbal Medicine sourced from nature, and the experience of acupuncture will help. It is just good medicine.
What if it didn’t work for me in the past?
I’m unsure if Natural Medicine can help me.
What happens on the day of my appointment?
Initial appointments: At your first session, a thorough intake is performed, and several diagnostic tests are undergone, such as pulse palpation, abdominal palpation, inspection of the complexion and tongue diagnosis, amongst many others as needed. An initial diagnosis is made, and an acupuncture treatment is administered and /or a bespoke herbal medicine formula is prescribed. This process takes approximately 1 hour.
Follow up appointments: At every appointment, a thorough intake and diagnosis is performed, followed by the treatment. Then herbal medicine is prescribed and adjusted according to your needs. These sessions last approximately 50 minutes, or 30 minutes for herbal medicine consultations.
Insurance rebates apply (except HCF). Just present your receipt to your provider, or upload a copy via their App to receive your rebate. Concessions are available for concession cardholders.