Naturopaths in Vancouver

A naturopath is a practitioner of naturopathic medicine. There are different types of naturopathic doctors holding a variety of licenses. Naturopathic doctors are most popular as they are fully licensed individuals. They have to attend 4 years of specialized medical school to receive a recognized certification that allows them to practice naturopathy.

Naturopathic doctors cannot only diagnose and prevent but also treat illness to establish and restore an individual’s optimal health. They do so by supporting the patient's inherent self-healing process.

The main aim of naturopathic doctors is to identify the true cause of an illness and not just to suppress symptoms. They develop detailed and customized treatment programs according to the needs of an individual.

While most naturopathic doctors in Canada receive training in primary care, some may receive specialized education. There are several specialty associations in this field including Pediatrics, Oncology, Psychiatry, Primary Care, Endocrinology, Parenteral Therapies, and Environmental Medicine.

Naturopaths study curricula that include topics not covered in conventional courses.

A naturopath offers non-invasive, natural solutions that focus on supplements, lifestyle changes, and nutrition. A naturopath can help to uncover the root cause of a health issue and recommend supplements or herbal medicines to support the body.

Naturopaths—also called “Doctors of Natural Medicine,” “Doctors of Naturopathy,” and “Naturopathic Physicians,” — usually complete a four-year degree program that confers a Doctorate in Naturopathic Medicine or Doctorate in Naturopathy.

In addition, they have to complete at least 4,100 college hours including clinical education hours. They have to complete at least 1,200 clinical hours, including a minimum of 720 hours in direct patient care.

Naturopathic medicine is a form of alternative medicine that involves natural and non-invasive ways to 'self-heal'. It does not involve major surgeries or conventional drugs. The main aim of an ND is to reach the root cause of a condition and treat it instead of concentrating on just symptoms.

Also, naturopathy is largely designed to prevent health problems and optimize one's health.

Naturopath prices differ from region to region and practitioner to practitioner. Some cities are costlier than others and experienced professionals tend to charge more. Expect to pay anywhere between $100 and $250 for an initial consultation.

The consultation usually lasts for 60 to 90 minutes and includes a detailed evaluation and discussion of the patient's requirements and medical history. Fortunately, most health insurance plans cover naturopathic medicine; however, the amount of coverage varies depending and most plans are in the range of $200 - $500 per year.

There is no straight answer to this question. Generally speaking, naturopaths can write prescriptions except in certain conditions. Rules change from province to province and some provinces allow licensed naturopathic doctors to prescribe medicines. However, they very rarely do so. They may, however, refer a patient to a conventional doctor who may prescribe medication.

Most naturopathic care experts go with natural therapies with little to no side effects before they choose to use the prescription pad.