About Naturopathic Doctors

What Can I Expect When I Visit A Naturopathic Doctor?

The goal of the naturopathic doctor is to understand the patient and all the factors which impact on his/her health. The ND will take an in-depth patient history. In addition, the information from a physical exam and laboratory tests may assist in making an assessment and diagnosis. A personal treatment plan will then be proposed to help facilitate the patient's healing process.

What Does It cost To Visit A Naturopathic Doctor?

Fee schedules vary somewhat depending on the province, as well as on the ND's practice focus and length of the visit. In B.C., naturopathic physicians are not covered by BC Med. However, most private health plans cover a portion of naturopathic treatments and there are programs for the self-employed which enable them to write off a majority of their visits from their income tax. Patients are encouraged to request that their policy include coverage for all naturopathic services.

What is the Difference between Naturopaths and Homeopaths?

Homeopathic medicine is one of the therapies that naturopathic doctors integrate into a total treatment program. A homeopathic practitioner, however, would use only a homeopathic approach. Naturopathic doctors are the only health care professionals trained in homeopathy as part of their standard educational program and examined in homeopathy for registration (or licensing) purposes. In France, only licensed medical doctors are permitted to use homeopathy.

Do Naturopathic Doctors Interact With Other Health Professionals?

Naturopathic treatments are often combined with conventional medical treatments. It is becoming more common to find NDs working together with other health professionals for the good of the patient. NDs also refer patients to other practitioners including medical doctors, chiropractors, massage therapists and midwives.