New Patients: Your First Visit

Netra Integrative Health Clinic sees patients in person at 5001 Hadley Rd, Ste 210, South Plainfield, NJ. This page explains how to book, what to bring and what happens at a first visit.

Who we see

We offer acupuncture, Ayurvedic medicine, Chinese medicine and herbal medicine as complementary care for chronic and complex conditions. This care works alongside your physician and does not replace a medical evaluation of new or serious symptoms. You can browse the conditions we see and our treatments.

Booking your first appointment

Book online or call (908) 402-7301. When you pick a time online, we confirm it by text and email. Same-day appointments are available on a limited basis, so please call to ask.

What to bring

Please bring a photo ID, your insurance card, the most recent reports of your complete blood work, and a list of any medications and supplements you are currently taking.

To send reports before your visit, call the office and we will tell you the best way to send them. You can also bring printed copies to your appointment.

What happens at your first visit

Your first visit starts with a consultation about your health concerns, medical history, lifestyle and symptoms. For acupuncture, you then lie on a treatment table while thin, sterile, single-use needles are placed at specific points on the body. A typical acupuncture session lasts 15 to 40 minutes, and the first visit may take longer because of the consultation.

Care is provided by Dr. Saikumar Gandapodi, DAOM, Dipl. OM, L.Ac. The number of sessions depends on your condition and how you respond, and he will discuss a treatment plan with you.

How to prepare

Wear loose, comfortable clothing. Avoid a heavy meal right before your appointment, but do not come on an empty stomach. Drink plenty of water, try to avoid alcohol and caffeine on the day of your session, and arrive a little early to complete paperwork.

Tell us about any medications or treatments you are receiving, and let us know if you are pregnant, so your care can be adjusted.

Insurance and payment

We are in-network with Blue Cross Blue Shield, Cigna and UnitedHealthcare. Other plans may be covered through out-of-network benefits. We do not participate in Medicare or Medicaid. Acupuncture coverage varies from plan to plan, so use our free insurance check before your first visit. Verification can take 3 to 5 business days.

We accept HSA and FSA cards and CareCredit, and discounted self-pay options are available. See Insurance for details.

Location and hours

5001 Hadley Rd, Ste 210, South Plainfield, NJ 07080. We are open Monday to Friday, 10:00 AM to 8:00 PM. See Location for a map and directions.

After your visit

Avoid strenuous exercise for the rest of the day, limit alcohol and caffeine, rest and drink plenty of water. Some people feel relaxed or tired after acupuncture, and slight soreness at the needle sites usually settles within a day or two.

More answers are on our FAQ page.

Board Certified and State Licensed Practitioner