About Naturopathic Medicine in Nanaimo
Naturopathic medicine is an alternative approach to healthcare that uses natural means to promote healing and wellness.
There are several principles that guide naturopathic medicine as a profession. These include the healing power of nature, treating the whole person, finding and treating the root cause(s) of disease, and illness prevention.
Naturopathic doctors (NDs) are highly trained medical professionals who receive a minimum of 7 years of post-secondary education. Becoming a naturopathic doctor requires undergraduate training in core sciences, and the completion of a 4-year naturopathic medicine program at an accredited naturopathic medical school.
NDs are primary care providers who practice evidence-informed medicine and have a broad scope of practice. They are trained in and utilize a wide range of natural healing modalities including: Acupuncture, Botanical (Herbal) Medicine, Clinical Nutrition, Dietary and Lifestyle Counselling, Physical Medicine, Hydrotherapy and Nutrient Injections & IV Nutrient Therapy.
Naturopathic physicians have direct access to laboratory testing and can prescribe pharmaceutical medications. NDs can order both common lab tests and special tests, such as Food Sensitivity and Nutrigenomix testing. Obtaining the authority to prescribe medication requires additional training for naturopathic doctors; this allows them to better understand pharmaceuticals, and to more safely and effectively co-manage patients alongside their medical doctors.