Naturopathic
What is Naturopathic Medicine?
Naturopathic medicine can help you find true health and all that comes with it:
What can I expect?
To feel better than you ever knew you could. This gentle, yet supportive blend of science and nature is changing the face of Canadian healthcare.
Naturopathic doctors strive to spend adequate time with patients to fully understand their concerns, and also to follow-up and monitor patients to best guide and motivate them – a patient should never feel forgotten. The first consultation is 60 minutes to discuss your concerns and assess your body inside and out. By the end of that visit, a treatment plan is laid in place. Checkups are scheduled, usually for 30 minutes, when needed, according to your plan.
Your plan may include dietary changes, herbs or supplements to take, acupuncture, homeopathy, and lifestyle changes. Often it is a balance of quick-acting remedies to get relief and long-term treatments to address the root cause. These remedies are usually combined with things you can do to engage in your treatment plan and take an active role in your well-being.
In addition, naturopathic medicine is often used by those:
Testing Available
Currently, the following tests are available to patients of Backbones:
These are the most commonly used and requested tests. Other tests are available from this lab, and are available upon request. See rmalab.com for a full listing of tests.
Conditions Naturopathic Doctors Can Treat
Frequently Asked Questions
Naturopathic doctors have a minimum of 3 years of premedical sciences, following by 4 full‑time years of naturopathic medicine at one of two accredited institutions in Canada. After graduating, naturopathic doctors must write and pass rigorous board examinations to get a license to practice, and keep valid registration with the Alberta Association of Naturopathic Practitioners through continuing education.
Yes, absolutely. Safety is the main concern, in addition to meeting patient goals, whatever they may be. Naturopathic doctors are experts in alternative health and how to safely use natural remedies. Options and education will be provided, but a patient will never be told to disregard the advice of other qualified health care providers.
Yes, we try to leave room open for new patients to get in within 3 weeks.
Although Alberta Health does not cover naturopathic medical services, most extended health care plans do. Please check your plan. You will be provided with a detailed receipt to submit to your insurance provider. For adults, the rate is currently $150 for the initial naturopathic medicine consultation, $90 for the initial acupuncture-only session, and $65 for all naturopathic and acupuncture follow-ups. These prices do not include GST. Please note there is $25 fee for missed appointments (cancellation is required 24 hours in advance). Fees are subject to change without notice.
Yes, upon special arrangement with the naturopathic doctor. Please call the clinic for available appointments.
Gather your health information – prescription information, lab tests, past illnesses/surgeries, current supplements – any information pertaining to your health history.
In addition, start contemplating your health goals. What are your goals and what are willing to do to accomplish them? How good to you want to feel? What are your expectations of your healthcare providers? Are you ready for the journey to optimal health?