FAQ’s
FAQs- Naturopathic Medicine
1. What kind of training does a Naturopathic Doctor have?
All ND candidates must first complete at least three years of university, including courses in Biology, Chemistry and Psychology, prior to attending an accredited Naturopathic College or University. The Doctor of Naturopathic Medicine program is four years and includes medical sciences including pharmacology, laboratory diagnosis, naturopathic principles and treatment modalities including acupuncture, botanical medicine, homeopathy, medical nutrition as well as 1,500 hours of supervised clinical experience. Graduates must also pass rigorous standardized examinations to obtain a license and qualify to practice as a Naturopathic Doctor (ND) in Ontario.
2. What sort of conditions can a Naturopathic Doctor treat?
NDs treat a host of conditions, from the common cold and minor musculoskeletal injuries to serious neurological conditions and cancer. Treatments can stand alone, or be adjunctive to traditional medical treatment.
3. Do I need a referral to see a Naturopathic Doctor?
No, you do not need a referral.
4. Will a Naturopathic Doctor work with my Medical Doctor?
NDs work together with MDs to ensure the best care of the patient. Prescription medications are always considered when developing a treatment plan. Licensed Naturopathic Doctors have training in pharmacology and drug-nutrient-herb interactions. ND can also help
you manage the side effects of medication.
5. What is the difference between a Naturopathic Doctor and a Homeopathic Doctor?
A Homeopathic Doctor uses homeopathy. A Naturopathic Doctor uses a wide range of therapies, including homeopathy.
6. Does health insurance cover Naturopathic Medicine?
Most private insurance plans cover Naturopathic treatments. Insured patients are encouraged to contact their employer or insurance provider to determine the level of coverage provided.
7. Are the services offered at the clinic covered by OHIP?
No, at the present time, the services offered at the clinic are not covered by OHIP.
8. What happens if you need to cancel your appointment?
We ask that you provide the clinic at least 24 hours advance notice if you need to cancel your appointment. Cancellations with less than 24 hours advance notice are subject to a charge of 50% of the fee for the service scheduled.
9. What should I expect from a first visit?
- A thorough intake, including current conditions, past conditions and family history
- A complete review of systems
- A complaint-oriented or complete physical exam
- A urine analysis
FAQs- Acupunture
1. Who can perform acupuncture?
Because acupuncture is not regulated in Ontario, anyone could perform this procedure. We recommend that you find a qualified practitioner. Ask how much training the acupuncturist has had, and if he/she belongs to a recognized association. Those practitioners who are recognized by the Government and Insurance Companies will have a registration number.
2. Are naturopathic doctors qualified to perform acupuncture?
Naturopathic Doctors study Traditional Chinese Medicine and acupuncture for 4 years as part of their studies at the Canadian College of Naturopathic Medicine in Toronto. They are licensed by the Board of Directors of Drugless Therapy, who will assign them with a registration number. Insurance companies that hold naturopathic coverage, will cover acupuncture as one of the therapies performed by naturopathic doctors.
3. Does acupuncture hurt?
You will feel a little prick as the needles goes in, but considerably less than regular needle.
4. What will I feel?
During the procedure, you may feel a number of different sensations, such as numbness, tingling, burning, or traveling aches at the area of needle insertion or at other areas in your body.
5. Should I be concerned about infections?
At this clinic, we use only sterile, single-use, disposable needles that are individually packaged, so there is little chance of infection. We are also trained to perform acupuncture techniques using the Standard Clean Needle Technique, which ensures safe needling practice