1. Is naturopathic medicine regulated in Ontario?

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Naturopathic medicine is regulated in several provinces including Ontario, which means it can only be practiced by licensed naturopathic doctors. Not just anyone can put a sign up and say they are a Naturopathic Doctor! Only those who have completed the proper training and passed licensing exams. 

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2. Is naturopathic medicine covered by my extended health insurance policy? 

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Many extended health plans provide coverage for naturopathic medicine. Check with your insurance provider to determine your eligibility. Naturopathic medicine is not covered by OHIP.

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3. What kind of training do naturopathic doctors receive? 

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Naturopathic doctors licensed in Canada have completed a minimum of 3 years of pre-medical undergraduate education before completing 4 years of full-time graduate education at an accredited school of naturopathic medicine. This includes more than 4,500 hours of classroom training and 1,500 hours of supervised clinical experience. Naturopathic doctors must also pass 2 standard NPLEX board exams, written after the 2nd and 4th year of study. Graduates receive the title "N.D." or Doctor of Naturopathic Medicine.

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 4. Can naturopathic doctors prescribe pharmaceuticals? 

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Naturopathic doctors can now prescribe a certain list of pharmaceutical medications in Ontario. Dr. Sarah Penney, ND has completed the additional qualifications and testing to have access to these medications. 

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5. What is the difference between a naturopathic doctor and a family medical doctor?

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Both types of practitioners are highly trained primary health care professionals. Family medical doctors are experts in the treatment of health conditions using prescription medications and surgical procedures. Naturopathic doctors are experts in treatment involving natural substances and noninvasive treatments that ideally support the body’s natural ability to heal. Our current healthcare system also affords naturopathic doctors much more time in any given visit to discuss all of a patient's health concerns and investigate the root cause of disease.

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6. What is the difference between a homeopathic doctor and a naturopathic doctor?

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Homeopathic doctors are healthcare professionals that specialize in the treatment of concerns using a form of medicine called homeopathy.  Naturopathic doctors are also trained in homoepathy, and may use homoepathic treatments in conjunction with many other clinical tools.

 

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Have additional questions? Don't hesitate to contact me at my clinic, or at Sarah.PenneyND@gmail.com to get your questions about naturopathic medicine answered!