1) What is the training and qualifications of Naturopathic Physicians?
Naturopathic Physicians, like other medical professions, such as Medical Doctors, Chiropractors, and Dentists, must first complete premedical studies at a recognized University. They then apply for admission to a four year, full-time accredited Naturopathic Medical School.
There are six Naturopathic Medical colleges in Canada and the US. Of these, five are fully accredited with the sixth granted candidacy status for accreditation. The accrediting organization is the Council on Naturopathic Medical Education (CNME). It is the only government recognized accrediting body for Naturopathic Medical Schools in Canada and the United States. To find the websites of these schools visit our Resources page.
The basic areas of study include anatomy, biochemistry, physiology, histology, immunology, microbiology, pathology, and pharmacology. There is also training in clinical and physical diagnosis, differential and laboratory diagnosis, Naturopathic assessment, orthopaedics, and radiology. Then there is the Naturopathic disciplines that include, clinical nutrition, botanical medicine, traditional Chinese medicine and acupuncture, homeopathic medicine, hydrotherapy, Naturopathic manipulation and lifestyle counseling. In total there is more than 4,500 hours of classroom training along with 1,500 hours of supervised clinical experience.
Upon successful graduation, they must pass the Naturopathic Physicians Licensing Examinations (NPLEX) in order to qualify for licensing as a Naturopathic Doctor (ND).
For further information on the qualifications and training of Naturopathic Physicians, visit the Canadian Association of Naturopathic Doctors (CAND) website and follow the Questions link.
2) Does Alberta Health Care cover the services of Naturopathic Physicians?
Currently, Alberta Health Care does not cover Naturopathic Physician services. However, many extended health care benefit plans do provide some coverage for the visits. You should check with your plan’s insurer to see what services you have covered.
3) What is the difference between Medical Doctors (MD) and Naturopathic Doctors (ND)?
Both are Doctors and highly trained primary health care professionals. The fundamental difference is in the approach to the medical treatment of patients. Medical Doctors tend to treat specific symptoms. They use prescription drugs and surgical procedures to treat conditions.
Naturopathic Doctors use a holistic approach. They examine all the factors that affect your health to find the root cause of illness. Then use natural substances and noninvasive treatments to support your body’s natural ability to heal.
4) How do Naturopathic Physicians fit in to my personal health care?
Naturopathic Physicians are primary health care providers. Many patients rely on them as their family Doctor. They can also assist you in providing medical services that are complementary to treatments recommended by other health care professionals.
5) Is there follow up visits with the Naturopathic Physician?
Yes, our Edmonton Naturopathic Physician will recommend follow up visits. These will depend on your own goals for holistic wellness, or if you suffer from any acute or chronic illness that requires ongoing treatment.
Its important to be proactive about your health. So, we need to monitor your condition and progress at regular intervals.
6) Do Naturopathic Physicians engage in major surgical procedures?
No, Naturopathic Physicians would refer any patient that required major surgical procedures, to consult a Medical Doctor.
However, Patient’s undergoing surgical procedures can benefit from the services of their Naturopathic Physician. First by building up their body’s natural defences in advance of surgery. Secondly, by helping their body recover more quickly from the trauma of surgery.
Frequently Asked Questions of the
Edmonton Naturopathic Physician
- What is the professional training of Naturopathic Physicians?
- Are the services of Naturopathic Physicians covered by Alberta Health Care?
- What is the difference between a Medical Doctor (MD) and Naturopathic Doctor (ND)?
- How does a Naturopathic Physician fit in to my personal health care?
- Is there follow up visits with a Naturopathic Physician?
- Do Naturopathic Physicians engage in major surgical procedures?
About Our Clinic: FAQ
