Frequently Asked Questions

1.  Is naturopathic medicine covered by Alberta Health Care?

    Alberta Health Care does not cover the visit fee.  However, most private or corporate plans cover naturopathic visits, and the tests we prescribe.  Please call your provider before the first visit to confirm your coverage.

2.  Is naturopathic medicine a regulated profession?

    In July of 2012, Alberta began regulating naturopathic medicine.  The College of Naturopathic Doctors of Alberta (www.cnda.net) has been formed.  Alberta joins BC, Saskatchewan, Manitoba, Ontario and Nova Scotia, who are already regulated.  Our services will soon be GST exempt.  BC naturopathic doctors have pharmaceutical prescribing privileges relevant to their scope of practice. 

3.  Can my naturopathic doctor order lab tests?

Currently, NDs have been using private labs to provide a full range of testing.  These are often covered by private insurance plans, but not by Alberta Health Care.

4.  Are naturopathic doctors the same as homeopaths?

Naturopathic doctors are trained in homeopathy as one of the many treatment modalities that they use (http://www.cand.ca/About_Naturopathic_Medicine.aboutnd.0.html?&L=0).

5.  What is the difference between a naturopathic doctor (ND) and a medical doctor (MD)?

    Both NDs and MDs offer primary patient care and are trained similarly.  Where they differ, is in their philosophical approach.  An example that will illustrate this, is that if a patient complains of frequent headaches, an MD would give a prescription to take away the pain or stop the headache once it is starting.  An ND would search for the root imbalance that is creating that symptom, such as muscle/bone imbalances, food sensitivities, hormone imbalances, etc.

6.  Do I need a referral to see a naturopathic doctor?

    No, you do not need a referral.