Naturopath, Homeopath vs. a Naturopathic Doctor
What is Naturopathic Medicine?
Naturopathic medicine combines modern scientific knowledge with traditional and natural forms of medicine.
Naturopathic doctors are skilled in performing physical examinations and interpreting laboratory results, as well as understanding pharmacology and drug-herb-vitamin interactions.
In their approach to patient care, naturopathic doctors are guided by the principles (link to info on principles below) of naturopathic medicine; it is these principles (link) that differentiate naturopathic doctors from other primary care providers.
The primary goal of a naturopathic doctor is to determine and treat the underlying cause of illness rather than simply managing or suppressing symptoms.
In addition, naturopathic doctors recognize that each person is unique and requires individualized care. Disease affects the entire person, not just a specific organ or system. Under the care of a naturopathic doctor, your nutritional status, lifestyle, family history, emotions, environmental stresses, and physical health are all carefully evaluated and addressed.
Naturopathic doctors believe in empowering their patients through education. They take the time to explain your illness and ensure that you have an understanding of your health as well as the steps you need to take to become well.
Naturopathic doctors treat both acute and chronic conditions by prescribing diet and lifestyle changes, as well as natural therapies including botanical medicine, clinical nutrition, hydrotherapy, homeopathy, naturopathic manipulation and traditional Chinese medicine/acupuncture.
What is the difference between a naturopathic doctor and someone who uses natural medicine?
It all comes down to training.
Naturopathic Doctors (NDs) have a minimum of 7 years of post-secondary education. After their undergraduate training, they pursue the four year vigorous naturopathic program at one of seven accredited Naturopathic Colleges in North America.
Naturopathic doctors must also successfully pass the Naturopathic Physicians Licensing Examinations (NPLEX) I and II, a standardized examination for all NDs in North America.
Our Naturopathic Doctors are licensed to practice in Alberta and must complete ongoing continuing education credits to maintain their licenses.
Naturopathic medicine training involves the comprehensive classroom and practical, hands-on study of:
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What is the difference between a naturopathic doctor and a homeopath?
Naturopathic doctors are doctors. They have been trained in making a diagnosis based on taking a complete health history, performing a physical examination and using results from laboratory testing and other diagnostic tools. Although naturopathic doctors can use homeopathy as part of their treatment plan, homeopathy is just one component of a broad range of treatment modalities and strategies.
What can you expect on your first visit to Vital Health Naturopathic Clinic?
In your one hour appointment, your Naturopathic Doctor will complete a thorough intake of your overall wellness, including your current health concerns, medical history, family history, diet, and lifestyle habits. Then, they will use this information along with assessment tools such as electrodermal analysis and possibly other testing to determine and treat the underlying cause of illness, rather than only treating your symptoms.