Naturopathic Medicine
Naturopathic doctors (ND) are primary care providers that are medically trained and naturally focused. Blending modern medical practices with traditional healing philosophies, the scope of naturopathic medicine is the most extensive of any complementary healthcare provider in Ontario with access to conventional lab testing, prescribing privileges on select bioidentical hormones and therapeutic vitamins, and with comprehensive training in the use of a variety of natural healing therapies. Similar to a visit with a medical doctor, a visit with an ND involves a complete health intake, physical exams, and lab testing to adequately assess and diagnose your health concerns. While treatments with prescription medications are beyond the scope of naturopathic medicine in Ontario, NDs are required to study the use and effectiveness of pharmaceuticals and how they interact with supplements, herbs, and nutrients. With this knowledge, ND’s work to safely integrate natural treatments with conventional ones. As such, ND’s work as part of your health care team to ensure your health concerns are addressed and treated safely and effectively. What set’s naturopathic medicine apart from conventional medicine is in the approach and treatment. ND’s use a holistic approach that assesses the whole person and takes the time to consider the physical, mental, emotional, genetic, social, and environmental factors as contributing to the overall health of each individual. Rather than treating disease, ND’s treat the individual and recognize that each person expresses illness differently. Treatment plans are carefully crafted with the aim to identify and remove the underlying cause of the illness to facilitate the natural healing process – beyond the suppression of symptoms. NDs also emphasize disease prevention and empower patients with the knowledge needed to take responsibility for optimizing their health. NDs require rigorous training that includes a bachelor’s degree with medical pre-requisites followed by a four-year degree at an accredited naturopathic medical college. To qualify for licensing, NDs must have successfully completed entry-to-practice examinations and require continuing education credits on an ongoing basis to maintain licensure. As a regulated health profession in Ontario, all naturopathic doctors must be registered and in good standing with the provincial regulatory body, College of Naturopaths of Ontario (CONO) under the Naturopathy Act (2007) to ensure all NDs have the knowledge, skills, and judgment to maintain their roles. Naturopathic treatments include:
- Acupuncture & Asian Medicine
- Botanical Medicine
- Nutrition and Nutraceuticals
- Homeopathic Medicine
- Lifestyle counseling