How To Find A Naturopathic Doctor Right For You!
How To Find A Naturopathic Doctor Right For You!
How to find the right Naturopathic Doctor can be a tough task. Even the title can be confusing! What’s the difference between a Naturopath and Naturopathic Doctor (ND) anyway? Is it covered by OHIP? Are all NDs the same? Hopefully this blog can answer some of those questions for you and give you some helpful tips in finding the right ND for you.
Naturopath vs. Naturopathic Doctor (ND)
The term ‘naturopath’ and ‘Naturopathic Doctor (ND)’ are often used interchangeably. However, there is technically an important distinction between the two. The term ‘Naturopathic Doctor (ND)’ is a federally regulated designation referring to a primary health care practitioner who has gone through a rigorous Naturopathic Medical Education program requiring a minimum of a 4-year university undergraduate degree and certain prerequisite courses in addition to passing a series of medical board exams called NPLEX (Naturopathic Physicians Licensing Examinations). The term ‘naturopath’ is not as federally regulated and can be used by someone who takes a weekend course in a related subject. So be careful! Make sure if you are seeing a naturopath, you are actually seeing a naturopathic doctor.
Are Naturopathic Visits Covered by OHIP?
Currently in Ontario, visits with an ND are not covered by OHIP. However, most extended health care benefits cover some or all of your Naturopathic care. Each insurance plan differs so please make sure you contact your specific insurance provider and ask about your particular naturopathic coverage.
Are all NDs the same?
All NDs complete an intense four-year Naturopathic medical program at an accredited Naturopathic Medical School. In Canada, there are only two accredited schools for Naturopathic Medicine, namely the Canadian College of Naturopathic Medicine in Toronto and Boucher Institute of Naturopathic Medicine in British Columbia. In the USA, there are seven accredited schools. However, all NDs put their own personal touches in their styles of practice and many take additional courses to supplement their training and education.
Here are some tips in helping you find the ND right for you:
1. Ask yourself: “What am I looking for in an ND?” “What do I want help with?” Then ask your trusted friends and family if they have seen a good ND in your city who would be a good fit for you. You can also google search local NDs in your city and scope out their websites to get a brief impression of them. Some NDs have special interests that could include your chief concerns. If you are still unsure, call the ND’s office and ask the receptionist if the ND would be willing to meet you before you commit to your initial appointment. Many NDs offer complimentary 15minute meet-the-doctor visits so you can see if this is the right fit for you.
2. Check their credentials. If you have insurance coverage to see a Naturopathic Doctor, most insurance companies require the ND’s license number. If the naturopath you are seeing does not have a license number, they are not considered an ND. Most NDs put their license number on their receipts/invoices so you can claim the visits through your insurance easily.
3. You can visit www.ndontario.com to find an ND in your neighbourhood. On the top right hand corner of the homepage, scroll over “Looking for an ND?” and type in your city. It will provide you with a list of NDs and their locations in your city.
4. Finally, listen to your gut. If your instincts tell you this person can help you, trust yourself and try it out. You know your body best. You can intuitively feel if you will benefit from an experience or not. If you are committed to health, you will achieve it!:)
If you have any questions, please call the clinic 519-822-4215 or visit www.gonaturopathichealth.com for more information.
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