Is Naturopathic Medicine Scientific?

Thousands of modern clinical studies have validated a variety of natural medicines used by NDs: Echinacea for the immune system and St. John's Wart for depression are just two examples. Naturopathic schools encourage and facilitate research.

It is important to note that, since most naturopathic remedies are not patentable, manufacturers find little financial incentive in costly scientific studies. Thus, funding from independent sources is essential for scientific validation of naturopathic treatments.

Is Homeopathic Medicine Different?

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.

How Are NDs Trained?

NDs take a minimum of three years premedical studies at university, followed by four years of specific training at a recognized college of naturopathic medicine. The education encompasses basic medical sciences, naturopathic principles and therapeutics, and 1500 hours of supervised clinical experience. There are five accredited schools of naturopathic medicine in North America:

• The Canadian College of Naturopathic Medicine (Toronto)
• Bastyr University (Seattle)
• National College of Naturopathic Medicine (Portland)
• Southwest College of Naturopathic Medicine (Scottsdale)
• University of Bridgeport College of Naturopathic Medicine (Connecticut)

Graduates from these institutions receive a Doctor of Naturopathic Medicine (ND) degree or diploma. In regulated (licensed) provinces and states across North America, graduates must also pass rigorous standardized exams to qualify for practice. In Canada, NDs are regulated in British Columbia, Manitoba, Ontario, and Saskatchewan. Legislation is pending in Alberta and Nova Scotia.

Do NDs Interact With Other Health Professionals?

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

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 the length of the visit.

In British Columbia, naturopathic physician fees are partly covered by the provincial Medical Services Plan. Other provinces do not provide this coverage.

Many private health plans cover a portion of naturopathic treatments. Patients are encouraged to request that their policy include coverage of all naturopathic services.

Do NDs Specialize?

Many NDs take additional postgraduate training in specific therapies and focus their practices on those treatments. The most common areas are nutrition, homeopathic medicine, acupuncture and botanical medicine. In some jurisdictions, NDs may obtain post-graduate certification in the use of intravenous therapies including ozone and chelation. Patients should check with individual NDs to find out more about the focus of their practice.

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 your healing process.