NATUROPATHIC FAMILY MEDICINE

What is Naturopathic Medicine?

Naturopathic Medicine is is a distinct branch of medicine that focuses on treating the underlying cause of disease. Naturopathic doctors (NDs) practice the art and science of medicine by supporting natural healing processes and helping patients identify obstacles inhibiting their health. In BC, naturopathic doctors are licensed as primary care providers. They are trained as general practitioners in complementary medicine, the can order and interpret laboratory test, and they have a wide range of therapies to develop patient-centered treatment plans. Your Naturopathic Doctor will work with you to provide guidance and to develop comprehensive treatment plan to help you reach your optimum health.

CONDITIONS TREATED

Naturopathic physicians treat a wide variety of acute and chronic conditions. Examples of conditions frequently seen by our NDs. :

IBS
Food Allergies/Sensitivities
Anxiety
Premenstrual Disorder/Painful menses
Acne
Fertility Support
Heart Health
Insomnia
Eczema/Psoriasis
Chronic Fatigue
Men's Health
Diabetes
Arthritis
Cancer/Preventative Care
Anti-Aging/Healthy Living

FAQ

WHAT TYPE OF TRAINING DO NATUROPATHIC PHYSICIANS HAVE?

In BC Naturopathic doctors have a minimum of seven years post-secondary education. NDs are required to complete a minimum of three years pre-medical university education followed by a four year post-graduate training at an accredited naturopathic medical school (there are only two in Canada!) During their schooling NDs compete roughly 1500 hours of basic clinical sciences, 1900 hours of standard medical therapeutics (e.g. pharmacology, family medicine, internal medicine etc.) and extensive training in naturopathic treatment modalities (e.g., clinical nutrition, herbal medicine, acupuncture etc.).

On completion of their successfully graduating from naturopathic medical school candidates must successfully complete Naturopathic Physician Licensing Examinations (NPLEX) and provincial board exams. Naturopathic doctors are required to annually complete approved continuing education.

CAN MY ND WORK WITH MY MD?

Yes! Naturopathic doctors are health care professionals trained to work in partnership with other health care providers such as medical doctors, chiropractors, physiotherapists, osteopaths and massage therapists in order to provide you with the highest quality of health care possible.

CAN MY NATUROPATHIC DOCTOR PROVIDE A PAP EXAM?

Yes, all of our naturopathic doctors are trained to perform Women’s Wellness exams that include a PAP exam, and Breast exam. Samples are sent to the BC cancer agency. If you are not a current patient of PNC you can still book in for a Women’s Wellness Exam and your results from the BC cancer agency will be sent to your primary health care physician (with your consent).