"Anonymous" makes some good points, particularly about the sanctity of the therapeutic relationship. Trust is absolutely at the heart of that relationship.
As I stated, using and promoting MLM products is a controversial topic. I am not telling acupuncturists they should or should not use MLM products in their practices. What I am saying is, if you choose to use them, do it in such a way that honors your integrity and the trust your patients have in you. (Which is also why I am very clear and say NOT to present or sell the "Business Opportunity" to patients.)
Up until now MLM has gotten a bad name for very good reasons. (See Ann Sieg's, "The 7 Great Lies Of Network Marketing".) If Acupuncturists or any health care professionals do however decide to use MLM products, I hope they will disregard the techniques that most MLM companies teach and learn how to put their patients, clients, and customers first. Otherwise, Anonymous is right and MLM has no place in your practice.
The statement by Anonymous, "It is unethical to use the client-practitioner relationship to profit financially beyond your fee for your service charge", is an interesting stance given that most acupuncturists sell herbs (patents, granules, or in bulk) and other products at retail prices for profit. I do not regard this as "unethical".
Buying products at wholesale and selling them at retail is the lifeblood of any business and one part of a healthy service-based business that can generate needed income.
I assume that acupuncturists are not selling these products just to make a profit. They are careful and recommend what they believe the patient needs. If a good product is available through an MLM company, should we provide it ethically and responsibly, or reject it all together?
To me, this is a discussion about business models and implementation.
Every acupuncturist gets to decide where they stand. I appreciate that "Anonymous" has made his/her stand.
