Naturopathic Healthcare is an integrative healthcare approach provided by Naturopathic Physicians. It is dedicated to treating the causes of disease, recognizing the individuality of each patient, utilizing the natural healing mechanisms of the body, educating patients, and promoting optimal healthful lifestyles. Although Naturopathic Physicians generally use natural therapies for treatment, naturopathic medicine should not be defined by the therapies offered. It should be defined by the overall integrative and holistic approach taken by the Naturopathic Physician. 

 

Naturopathic Doctors must complete at least seven years of post-secondary education. Most NDs complete their undergraduate degree, including the pre-med requirements, before attending naturopathic medical school for an additional four years. Naturopathic medical curriculum provides extensive education on the core human sciences, including anatomy, physiology, biochemistry, the pathology of disease, and microbiology. Naturopathic medical students are trained to utilize the core therapies of nutritional counseling, supplementation, lifestyle modification, physical therapies, homeopathy, and counseling. Many Naturopathic schools include extensive training in Traditional Chinese Medicine and acupuncture as well.

 

In addition to the Naturopathic modalities, ND medical students receive excellent education in conventional therapies and techniques like laboratory testing, diagnostic imaging, pharmaceutical medicines, and minor surgery. In many jurisdictions, including British Columbia, naturopathic physicians have been granted access to public laboratories and prescription privileges for the use of pharmaceutical medicines.

 

For more information on naturopathic and integrative healthcare or to schedule a consultation please contact Dr. Barlow at 250-448-5610.