About Naturopathic Medicine
Naturopathic Medicine is a primary health-care system emphasizing prevention, treatment and the promotion of optimal health through the use of natural therapeutic methods and modalities. The foundation of the Naturopathic approach is based on individualized patient care with a focus on treating the cause and healing from within. Naturopathic medicine investigates the relationship between physical, mental, and emotional wellness to create health.
What conditions and illnesses do Naturopathic Physicians commonly treat?
Virtually all acute and chronic conditions my benefit from treatment by naturopathic physicians.
How are Naturopathic P
hysicians trained?
Naturopathic doctors (NDs) in BC receive a minimum of three years pre-medical training at university and then complete four years post-graduate training at an accredited naturopathic medical school.
NDs complete roughly 1500 hours of basic and clinical sciences, 1900 hours of standard medical therapeutics (e.g., pharmacology, family medicine, internal medicine etc.) and extensive training in naturopathic treatments.
Doctors complete board exams prior to receiving licensure. In addition, many NDs complete certification programs and exams in focus areas such as acupuncture, bio-oxidative medicine, chelation and homeopathy
The following are the Principles of Naturopathic Medicine which helps guide us in our approach to healthcare:
- First do no harm
- The healing power of nature
- Identify and treat the cause
- Doctor as teacher
- Treat the whole person
- Prevention is the best cure
Naturopathic doctor is trained as a primary-care practitioner, able to provide a wide range of individual, family and community health services. The practice of naturopathic medicine presents a primary contact and holistic approach to individualized health care for people of all ages.