Dr. Alexander Pokov in Baltimore: Medical Acupuncture from an MD
Dr. Alexander Pokov operates a solo practice combining internal medicine with acupuncture in Baltimore, serving patients who want both conventional medical diagnosis and needle-based treatment under one roof. This dual credential is less common in Baltimore than acupuncture delivered by licensed acupuncturists alone, and it shapes the experience and who benefits most.
What this practice actually is
Dr. Pokov is a medical doctor (MD) with additional training in acupuncture. His practice functions as an internal medicine office that incorporates acupuncture as one tool for managing pain, inflammation, nausea, and certain chronic conditions. Unlike an acupuncture-only clinic, a medical acupuncturist orders labs, takes a full drug history, and integrates needle treatment with knowledge of how medications interact with it. The practice is small, appointment-based, and does not appear to operate on a walk-in basis.
Services and pricing
Dr. Pokov's office handles general internal medicine (new patients, medication management, routine visits) and adds acupuncture as a service within the same practice. Acupuncture appointments in Baltimore range from $80 to $150 per session depending on the provider's training and location; medical acupuncture from an MD often sits at the higher end, often $120 to $150, due to the additional credential and evaluation overhead. Confirm current fees by contacting the office directly, as pricing can shift.
A typical acupuncture course of treatment involves 4 to 10 sessions spaced one to two weeks apart. Insurance coverage for acupuncture varies by plan and condition; Medicare covers it for chronic knee pain under specific criteria, and some Maryland commercial plans cover it for pain management with a referral or prior authorization. Dr. Pokov's office accepts insurance; verify in-network status with your carrier and confirm whether acupuncture is a covered benefit before booking.
How it compares to other Baltimore acupuncture options
Baltimore has roughly 40 to 60 licensed acupuncturists (LAc) working in standalone clinics or integrative practices, plus a small number of MDs and DOs with acupuncture training. The main trade-off is cost and scope. A licensed acupuncturist's visit usually runs $70 to $110, with lower overhead and sometimes more treatment time per dollar. Integrated care from an MD like Dr. Pokov costs more but provides same-visit medical evaluation, easier communication with your primary doctor, and clarity if you have drug interactions or complex conditions.
Clinics like Charm City Acupuncture and the University of Maryland's acupuncture clinic (through their graduate program) offer lower-cost or student-supervised options. University-affiliated clinics run $30 to $60 per treatment with extended appointment times; supervision is direct but treatment is delivered by graduate students under faculty review. Choose Dr. Pokov if you need acupuncture alongside active internal medicine management (medication adjustment, lab follow-up, complex medical history). Choose a licensed acupuncturist if your concern is localized pain and cost is a priority.
Who this practice suits and does not suit
Dr. Pokov's practice suits patients with chronic pain, nausea, or inflammatory conditions who are on multiple medications and want their acupuncturist to understand those interactions. It also works well for people managing ongoing internal medicine issues (hypertension, diabetes, thyroid disorders) who want to add acupuncture without separate offices. It does not suit those seeking acupuncture only without internal medicine involvement, those on a tight budget, or patients who prefer longer, more conversational acupuncture appointments (medical visits move faster).
What the first visit involves
A new-patient visit will cover standard internal medicine intake (medical history, current medications, why you are coming in). A portion of that visit will assess whether acupuncture is appropriate for your condition and whether it interacts with your medications. If acupuncture is approved, the practitioner will place needles and may retain them 20 to 40 minutes. Expect the full first appointment to run 45 to 60 minutes. Bring your insurance card and a current medication list. Do not eat a large meal immediately before the visit; acupuncture works best on a settled stomach.
Hours, parking, and logistics
Dr. Pokov's office is located in Baltimore. Specific hours are not confirmed in public sources; call to confirm availability, as medical practices often have limited evening or weekend hours. Street parking is typical in many Baltimore neighborhoods; confirm whether the building offers lot or garage parking when you schedule. The practice is appointment-only.
Dr. Pokov's integration of medical training and acupuncture fills a specific gap in Baltimore's provider landscape. If your medical history is complex or your acupuncture needs sit alongside active medication management, the dual credential removes coordination friction and reduces the risk of overlooked drug interactions.
