A: Naturopathic medicine is effective because it focuses on the fundamental causes of disease by using therapies that enhance the natural healing abilities of the body.

A: The number of treatments depends on the condition being treated, type of treatment given, and the compliance of the patient. For example, an acute condition such as the flu will respond very quickly, and a chronic condition may require more time to achieve the best results.

A: Naturopathic doctors (ND) are primary care practitioners who take the time to listen and work with you to find specific solutions for your health concerns. NDs are skilled to effectively treat acute and chronic conditions across all ages and view each patient with a whole body approach.

A: Most insurance companies have recognized the growing demand for a comprehensive coverage of medical services and now include naturopathic medicine. Check with your extended health insurance policy to learn about your specific coverage.

A: Naturopathic doctors prefer, when possible, to work together with all of your health care practitioners to provide you with the most comprehensive treatment options available.

NDs are knowledgeable in pharmacology to reduce treatment interactions with patients on prescription medications. Knowledge in pharmaceuticals also allows NDs to recognize and treat existing and potential drug side effects.

A: Naturopathic doctors (ND) must complete a pre-medical university degree in order to apply to the 4-year naturopathic medical program at an accredited institution in North America.

Similar to that of conventional medical studies, ND candidates undergo 4,500 hours of classroom training in medical sciences and clinical diagnosis. In addition to the foundational medical training, the 4-year program focuses on the practice and philosophy of naturopathic medicine and its treatment principles and therapies. During the fourth year of studies, all candidates undergo a 1-year supervised clinical internship.

Following graduation, NDs must successfully complete the Naturopathic Physicians Licensing Examinations (NPLEx) in order to qualify for licensing in Ontario. NPLEx is the standard examination used by all regulated jurisdictions in North America. NDs are also required to earn continuing education credits on an ongoing basis to maintain their license.

A: Naturopathic doctors (ND) are regulated in Ontario under the 1925 Drugless Therapy Act and are licensed by the Board of Directors of Drugless Therapy-Naturopathy (BDDT-N). The BDDT-N functions to ensure that naturopathic doctors are properly qualified to practice naturopathic medicine and adhere to established standards of practice.

In order to obtain licensure in Ontario, NDs must be a graduate of an accredited naturopathic medical institution. Currently, there are two accredited colleges in Canada (Canadian College of Naturopathic Medicine & Boucher Institute of Naturopathic Medicine) and four in the United States. In Canada, NDs are also regulated in the provinces of British Columbia, Manitoba and Saskatchewan.