Did you know if you served in the military and you now qualify for medical coverage through the department of Veterans Affairs that you also qualify for free acupuncture treatments through the Veterans Choice Program?

The Veterans’ Access to Care through Choice, Accountability, and Transparency Act of 2014, also called the Veterans Choice Act, is a public law that provides funding for veterans so they may seek treatment outside of the VA. The law stipulates you must live 40 miles away from the nearest VA hospital or be unable to get an appointment within 30 days. However, because there are no acupuncturists currently working at the VA everyone who qualifies for medical coverage through the department of Veterans Affairs automatically qualifies for Free Acupuncture treatments through the Veterans Choice Program. Our office is actually located just a couple miles from the VA in La Jolla and I treat retired military through the Veterans Choice Program daily.

In order to get the Veterans Choice Program to cover your acupuncture treatments first you must call 866-606-8198 to verify your coverage and setup an appointment or you can visit your VA doctor and tell them you would like a referral to receive acupuncture treatments through the Veterans Choice Program. Once you’re given the go ahead to receive acupuncture coverage, if you’re located in San Diego North County make sure you request One Body Acupuncture (Dr. Ayanna Cobb DACM L.Ac.) as your provider! Currently the VA considers acupuncture effective for and the Veterans Choice Program will cover acupuncture when it is used for the following conditions:

• Pain associated with an illness or injury

• Nausea and Vomiting after an operation

• Nausea and Vomiting related to chemotherapy

• Knee Pain from Osteoarthritis

• Low Back Pain

• Depression or other Mental Health concerns

• Substance dependency

Growing up in Southern California, I was raised with a deep sense of pride in my Indigenous American heritage and the strength of my ancestors, many of whom served in major conflicts throughout history, from the Indian Wars to Vietnam. This legacy shaped my values and inspired me to give back to my community.

I attended UCLA, where I studied Race, Ethnicity, and Stratification. My education opened my eyes to the complexities of identity, resilience, and the structures that impact health and well-being. With these insights, I felt a calling to pursue a career in holistic medicine, where I could combine cultural knowledge with compassionate, evidence-based care.

Today, I am honored to serve veterans and their families, who carry unique challenges from their years of sacrifice. My practice blends Eastern and Western medicine to provide natural relief and healing, honoring both my heritage and my commitment to holistic wellness. For me, it’s a way to give back to those who have given so much.

If you’re a veteran or family member seeking support, please know that you’re welcome here. My goal is to help you find relief and balance, no matter where you are on your wellness journey. If you have questions or feel unsure, simply hit the “Veteran Care Inquiry Form” button. I’m here to support you however I can.