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If this is your first time exploring natural medicine, or even if you’re an old-hand at this, you may have some questions. While we’d be happy to talk to you in person regarding whatever it is you wonder about, we can start here by addressing these frequently asked questions.
What is natural medicine?
Medicine is often described as both an art and a science. You could think of it as an intersection of art and science. Natural medicine becomes the intersection of art, science and nature.
Does this intersection mean that natural medicine is scientific?
That’s exactly what it means. There is an ever-growing body of scientific research that supports specific natural interventions. As practitioners, we rely on these studies to guide our treatment recommendations in a process called evidence-based medicine. This is something that we have in common with practitioners of conventional healthcare, who also rely upon evidence-based medicine.
Are there other overlaps with conventional care?
There can be. For example, nutrition has always been a foundation for naturopathic practice and is becoming a growing focus for conventional healthcare too. Other natural treatments such as massage and physical medicine, and the therapeutic use of light (laser), heat and cold are other common examples.
In the end, a natural practitioner may come to the same treatment recommendation as a conventional practitioner, but might do so for completely different reasons, coming out of a markedly different view of your health.
What conditions can be treated?
Virtually any condition can be treated. From digestive and skin problems to chronic pain and fatigue and everything in between, whatever your concern happens to be, we can help. We provide treatments for chronic conditions and preventative care programs for improving your health, slowing age-related changes, balancing your immune system, eliminating inflammation, managing health risks associated with conditions common in your family, and stress reduction.
What about the costs?
Consultations and treatments are not currently covered by OHIP, however virtually all third party health insurance benefit plans will cover at least a part of the cost of your visits. Please check with your insurance provider to find out what your particular benefits package includes.
If you are not covered, request that your policy be extended to include naturopathic care. Since natural alternatives are often less costly than medications, more insurance companies are becoming willing to expand the coverage they offer.
You may also want to consider the “opportunity cost” of not including natural approaches in your health care. You are reading this because, on some level, you’re not satisfied with your health and/or your treatment as they are now. If a natural health treatment can bring you to a new enduring level of wellness, it would very much be worth the “investment”.
We’ve done our best to respond to the most frequently asked questions you might want answered but we’re not perfect. If we missed your question, please let us know.