• open Naturopathic medicinal book in amongst bowls of medicinal herbs

Naturopathic doctors (ND) are one of your choices for health care. Naturopathic doctors treat many types of medical concerns providing both individual and family health care including children and seniors. The naturopathic philosophy is to look at the root causes of illness, both physical and mental and support the healing power of nature. Each patient’s acute and/or chronic conditions are addressed on an individual basis. A Naturopathic Doctor may recommend diet and lifestyle changes along with natural non-invasive therapies such as botanical medicine, clinical nutrition, natural supplements and other complimentary support services.

Naturopathic treatments have an extensive history dating back hundreds of years and have been further advanced under the scrutiny of research and testing through modern science. Naturopathic Doctors work in private practices, clinics and research facilities. Naturopathic doctors undergo three years of pre-medical studies followed by four years at an accredited naturopathic medical school requiring actual attendance of no less than 4,500 school hours. Naturopathic doctors must then successfully demonstrate a high standard of proficiency in both natural treatments of disease and other medical sciences during the Naturopathic Physicians Licensing Exams and along with specific BC exams in order to become registered and licensed to practice within the province.

Naturopathic doctors work with patients to identify the root causes of disease and to address all the factors that are affecting a patient’s health

Naturopathic doctors work with patients to identify the root causes of disease and to address all the factors that are affecting a patient’s health

Naturopathic medicine has benefits

Naturopathic doctors try to use the gentlest approach in treatments and health care posing the least risk of side effects. A naturopathic doctor can play a key role not only in addressing health concerns but working with you to accomplish health and wellness goals from disease prevention to lifestyle changes that benefit your emotional and physical state.

Most of us only act when symptoms appear. We see a dentist for a toothache or our doctor if the pain or physical sign causes concern. Naturopathic doctors are your health care provider to address and treat immediate health concerns but also look to the underlying cause such as disease to prevent symptoms from returning. Further to that your Naturopathic doctor looks after your health advising and recommending proper nutrition, exercise, supplementation, balanced lifestyle changes and emotional support to boost your optimal wellness. By promoting wellness, a Naturopathic doctor aims to prevent or mitigate any symptom or concern that brought you to their office in the first place. No one wants to experience reoccurring symptoms of pain or discomfort.

Naturopathy is safe and effective

Naturopathic doctors employ treatments with emphasis on non-toxic and natural substances. As a health care provider, a Naturopathic doctor will look at your complete lifestyle and will advise and recommend a complete health regime.

Naturopathy treats the cause versus the symptom

Naturopathic doctors go far beyond addressing immediate symptoms. They look to the cause in order to take an active role in prevention. Pain, discomfort or physical signs can be symptoms of underlying issues. A Naturopathic doctor will, of course, treat the immediate symptom but will work with the patient examining their entire history and lifestyle in order to promote their health.

Naturopathic doctors learn about you

The root of Naturopathic philosophy is treating the whole person. A Naturopathic doctor will treat each patient as an individual and learn their patient’s medical history, family history, emotional state, environmental conditions, social, diet and nutrition and lifestyle in order to evaluate and address health concerns. A Naturopathic doctor can play an important role in disease prevention and not just symptom treatment.

Individualized treatment

Naturopathic treatments are highly individualized. You have a unique story, history, genetics, dietary habits, lifestyle and associated health concerns. Doctor Reichert will work to determine the underlying cause(s) and create an individualized treatment plan. You will be involved in your health choices and learn to make effective, educated, self-care decisions that can help prevent future health problems.

Do I need a referral?

No, you do not need a referral to book an appointment with Doctor Reichert.

What should I bring or tell the doctor?

On your initial visit you may want to bring a list of medications you are currently taking and any information on past medical history including laboratory test results if available. Beyond your immediate reason for a visit the doctor may also ask about family history, lifestyle, diet and nutrition in order to begin diagnosis and treatment recommendations. You will also be asked to fill out forms on your first visit providing personal information, history and contact details as well as any applicable coverage plan information.

How long is the average visit?

For the first visit the average clinic visit is between 45 minutes and 1 hour. Subsequent visits are typically 30 minutes in length.

Are naturopathic visits covered?

Medical Services Plan (MSP) of BC has limited the coverage for Naturopathic Medicine. Most extended health care plans have naturopathic medical coverage and these plans are usually provided through your employer. Extended health plans may vary from person to person or employer to employer so it is recommended that you speak with your specific plan provider to be informed what specifically covered or reimbursed.

What about conventional prescription medications and Naturopathy?

Naturopathic doctors have extensive knowledge and continuing education in the interactions between pharmacological drugs, both OTC and prescription, and natural medicines. They can advise on mitigating possible side effects, options to prescription medications (when appropriate), and when and with what to take natural medicines and/or prescription drugs.

Will you consult with other health care providers such as a medical doctor?

Yes. Naturopathic doctors believe that your overall health and wellness is most important and working together is for the benefit of the patient. Naturopathic doctors also do not oppose other forms of treatment, such as surgery or pharmacological prescriptions, when these methods are necessary.

Do I need a referral?

No, you do not need a referral to book an appointment with Doctor Reichert.

What should I bring or tell the doctor?

On your initial visit you may want to bring a list of medications you are currently taking and any information on past medical history including test results if available. Beyond your immediate reason for a visit the doctor may also ask about family history, lifestyle, diet and nutrition in order to begin diagnosis and treatment recommendations. You will also be asked to fill out forms on your first visit providing personal information, history and contact details as well as any applicable coverage plan information.

How long is the average visit?

The average clinic visit is between 30 minutes and 1 hour.

Are naturopathic visits covered?

Medical Services Plan (MSP) of BC has limited the coverage for Naturopathic Medicine. Most extended health care plans have naturopathic medical coverage and these plans are usually provided through your employer. Extended health plans may vary from person to person or employer to employer so it is recommended that you speak with your specific plan provider to be informed what specifically covered or reimbursed.

What about conventional prescription medications and Naturopathy?

Naturopathic doctors have extensive knowledge and continuing education in the interactions between pharmacological drugs, both OTC and prescription, and natural medicines. They can advise on mitigating possible side effects, alternatives to prescription medications, and when and with what to take natural medicines and/or prescription drugs.

Will you consult with other health care providers such as a medical doctor?

Yes. Naturopathic doctors believe that your overall health and wellness is most important and working together is for the benefit of the patient. Naturopathic doctors also do not oppose other forms of treatment, such as surgery or pharmacological prescriptions, when these methods are necessary.

This site uses cookies. By continuing to browse the site, you are agreeing to our use of cookies.

OKLearn more