Q. What is Naturopathic Medicine?

A. Naturopathic medicine is a primary health care profession that focuses on prevention and uses natural methods to promote healing in acute and chronic disease states.

Q. What does a Naturopathic Doctor do?

A. Naturopathic doctors examine, diagnose and treat patients with programs tailored to each patient and their health conditions. Treatment approaches can include any combination of clinical nutrition, botanical (herbal) medicine, acupuncture, Chinese medicine, homeopathic medicine and lifestyle counseling. The treatment focuses on the underlying causes of illness rather than just the symptoms.

Q. What is the training of a Naturopathic Doctor?

A. Licensed naturopathic doctors are required to complete three years of pre-medical studies at a recognized university followed by fours years of full-time naturopathic medical education at an accredited college. There is only one accredited college in Canada, the Canadian College of Naturopathic Medicine and four in the United States. After graduation, they must pass rigorous regulatory board examinations that are standardized across North America.

Q. Are Naturopathic Doctors regulated in Ontario?

A. Yes. The Ontario government began regulating Naturopathic Doctors (NDs) under the Drugless Practitioners Act in 1925. In Ontario, the Naturopathic governing body is The Board of Directors of Drugless Therapy – Naturopathy (BDDTN). The Ontario Association of Naturopathic Doctors (OAND) represents licensed naturopathic doctors.

Q. What can I expect on a visit with a Naturopathic Doctor?

A. Your first visit will be one hour long and will include a comprehensive health history. Your second visit will include a naturopathic assessment, a screening physical exam, any required testing and a customized treatment plan. Follow-up appointments monitor your progress and adjust your treatment plan.

Q. Is Naturopathic Medicine covered by OHIP?

A. Naturopathic medical visits are not covered by OHIP, but are covered by most extended health care plans. Check with your insurance provider.

Q. What types of conditions can be treated by a Naturopathic Doctor?

A. We treat people with a variety of health conditions. Click here to see a list of the most common conditions that we treat.

Q. What is Bowen Therapy and what types of conditions does Bowen treat?

A. Bowen Therapy is a specialized tendon release technique that can treat a wide range of conditions including neck pain, back pain, asthma, digestive problems, TMJ, sports injuries and any other muscle and joint pain.

Q. Does Naturopathic Medicine really work?

A. Just ask any patient who has seen a licensed Naturopathic Doctor. Our practices are built on referrals from patients who have seen the benefits.

Q. Is there any research supporting the use of Naturopathic Medicine?

A. Yes. Numerous publications in major peer-reviewed journals (e.g. The Lancet, JAMA, Journal of Clinical Nutrition) are demonstrating the effectiveness of Naturopathic therapeutics in the prevention and management of illness. The Canadian College of Naturopathic Medicine has developed it’s own research department and is looking to offer post-graduate programs for ND’s in the near future.

Q. Are the products used by Naturopathic Doctors regulated?

A. Currently, all products prescribed by Naturopathic Doctors meet government regulations. They will have a DIN (Drug Identification Number) on the packaging which assures patients that they are approved for usage in Canada.

Q. I like to visit my health food store and pick up supplements, how safe is it to self prescribe?

A. Buyer beware. Naturopathic Doctors are trained experts in their vocation. The use of natural supplements and therapies for the treatment of illness is a complicated and sensitive act that requires study, training and clinical experience to be practiced effectively.