Frequently Asked Questions

Naturopathic Medicine is medicine that treats the underlying cause of disease. It is the art and science of supporting the natural healing processes of the patient through the removal of any obstacles to cure and the application of natural health measures.

In BC, naturopathic physicians (NDs) are licensed to provide primary care. They are trained as general practitioners in complementary medicine, providing a full range of diagnostic tests and therapies while spending considerable time with each patient.

Naturopathic medicine emphasizes the promotion of health, prevention of disease, patient education and individual responsibility — arguably the most therapeutically and cost-effective approaches to preventive medicine available today.

Most patients find three major benefits: general practice prevention-oriented medicine; valid alternatives to elective surgery or to drugs causing side effects; or complementary care alongside conventional treatment.

• Preventive Medicine — A comprehensive assessment of health risks including diet, exercise and stress, and development of preventive health protocols.
• Nutritional Medicine — Using dietary protocols, nutritional advice and supplements to heal the body.
• Botanical (Herbal) Medicine — NDs are professionally trained herbalists who know both historical uses of plants and modern pharmacological mechanisms.
• Homeopathic Medicine — Minute amounts of natural substances used to stimulate the body's self-healing abilities.
• Manipulative & Physical Medicine — Corrections of stress or trauma-induced misalignments of muscle, connective tissue and the skeletal system.
• Traditional Chinese Medicine — Including acupuncture, electro-dermal screening and Chinese herbology.
• Bowen Therapy — A gentle, non-invasive bodywork technique that activates the body's self-healing response.

Naturopathic doctors (NDs) in BC receive a minimum of three years pre-medical training at university, then complete four years of post-graduate training at an accredited naturopathic medical school. Doctors complete board exams prior to receiving licensure. Many NDs also complete certification programs in specific areas such as Bowen Therapy, acupuncture, and IV Therapy.

Most extended health care plans cover naturopathic doctors, usually between $200–$500 per year. Some plans also include coverage for lab or diagnostic testing. You can clarify coverage with your benefits provider before your appointment. Ask about MSP coverage as well, as some plans include partial naturopathic benefits.

Naturopathic physicians have been registered in BC under health legislation since 1923, becoming a self-regulating health profession in 1936. In North America today, more patients visit non-MDs for healthcare than MDs. Naturopathic medicine is one of the fastest growing health disciplines in Canada. In BC, the number of licensed NDs has nearly doubled over the past decade.

Many NDs in BC are trained and licensed to prescribe an extensive list of prescription medications. These may be used alongside traditional naturopathic therapies, as deemed appropriate for each individual patient. The approach is always integrative — using the most effective tools available for each situation.

Virtually all acute and chronic conditions may benefit from treatment by a Naturopathic Doctor. This includes pain conditions, digestive issues, hormonal imbalances, autoimmune conditions, mental health concerns, and much more. Medical emergencies are referred to the local hospital. Learn more about the conditions Dr. Maryam treats.