In a major win for acupuncture health advocates, California’s Senate and Assembly have agreed to maintain acupuncture as a covered benefit under the Medi-Cal program. While the final budget has not yet been signed off, this move signals strong support from state lawmakers to preserve access to culturally relevant care for low-income Californians.
Why This Matters
Acupuncture is an essential part of pain management for many people, especially those living with chronic conditions. By continuing to support acupuncture through Medi-Cal, California is taking a proactive stance on offering non-opioid solutions for pain relief. Lawmakers argue that this approach can help reduce long-term healthcare costs and avoid the risks associated with prescription drug dependency.
Leadership from the Top
Senator Scott Wiener, Chair of the Senate Budget Committee, has been vocal about the importance of maintaining acupuncture access. He worked closely with community leaders and advocates to make sure this benefit stayed on the table during tough budget talks. Wiener emphasized the need for inclusive health services, especially at a time when many federal policies are moving in the opposite direction.
“Acupuncture is a critical health care tool to manage chronic pain and other health needs,” said Wiener. “It’s not just about tradition—it’s about real results and giving people options that align with their values and needs.”
What’s Next?
While the budget is not final, the Legislature must reach an agreement by June 15. Negotiations with the Governor are ongoing, but the bipartisan support for acupuncture gives hope that this benefit will remain intact in the finalized plan.
Final Thoughts
Keeping acupuncture available under Medi-Cal represents more than a policy decision—it’s a statement about the kind of healthcare system California wants to build: inclusive, preventative, and rooted in both science and tradition.
Link to the original press release Senate and Assembly Reach Agreement to Preserve Acupuncture Medi-Cal Benefit
