Convention dictates that when you’re sick, you call your doctor, they prescribe you medicine and pretty soon you’re as good as new – but what if that’s not always true? Or better yet, what if conventional practices aren’t your only option?
As a Naturopathic Doctor, I’m often asked what it is I offer that a Medical Doctor doesn't usually provide. In some cases that question even comes with outlandish assumptions like: I’ll make them go vegan or I’ll try to treat their heart condition with ginger and peppermint or maybe I’ll even encourage them to stop taking life saving medication or never visit an ER again. Sounds crazy right? That’s because it is.
In reality, naturopathic medicine is regulated just as fiercely as our conventional counterparts and is completely reliant on scientifically proven methods to help our patients heal and thrive. We’re not “quacks” or “witch doctors”, we’re medically trained professionals that genuinely care about our patient’s well-being and simply employ a more holistic approach to healthcare.
The use of alternative health care practices is rising dramatically across the country. Those embracing a more natural approach are influenced by dozens of different factors. Here are a few of the biggest reasons why it might be worth considering adding a naturopathic doctor to your healthcare team.
Primary Care With a significant doctor shortage and long walk in clinic wait times, particularly here in Kamloops, Naturopathic Doctors can fill a vital role in your family’s healthcare. As licensed primary care practitioners in BC, we treat common medical conditions and provide treatment based on scientific evidence-based medicine while promoting preventative care and healthy lifestyle choices to keep your family at its best.
Holistic Approach Instead of simply treating symptoms, we embrace a holistic approach to health care. We evaluate the whole person by taking into consideration their physical, mental and emotional health allowing us to find the root cause of your health concern and therefore provide the most effective treatment for you.
Time Naturopathic doctors spend A LOT of time with our patients. Your first visit with an ND will be about an hour in length which is important as it allows us to really get to know you, your medical history and your healthcare needs. Unlike medical doctors offices or walk in clinics, your visits are not rushed or limited to one health concern, we want to hear all the details so we can personalize your treatment specifically to your individual needs.
Treatment Methods Naturopathic doctors use a variety of treatment options to support our patients. We provide nutrition counselling, use acupuncture, herbal medicine, nutrient supplementation and homeopathy. ND’s in BC can also be licensed to prescribe pharmaceuticals if and when needed. We work with our patients to decide which treatment options would best support their overall health goals.
Education, Education, Education! One of the biggest misconceptions about Naturopathic Doctors is that our education is limited to a certificate or online course. Not true. Naturopathic Doctors are required to complete a minimum 7 years of post-secondary education – an undergraduate degree followed by 4 years of Naturopathic Medical School. This includes 4,800 hours of in class and preceptor hours followed by 1,200 hours of one-to-one patient clinical hours. Much like conventional practitioners, ND’s are also required to complete continuing education hours each year to help keep us well informed and properly trained in the latest research and treatments.
In essence, Naturopathic Medicine is about finding a whole health strategy that works for you. Still not convinced? Keep asking questions and researching your options - your choices are broader than you think.
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