What is naturopathic medicine?

Naturopathic medicine is a type of primary care that blends traditional therapies with modern, evidence based medicine. Naturopathic doctors recognize that all body systems are connected and that all aspects of the individual are important when considering health and wellbeing. Naturopathic doctors utilize the healing power of nature through a variety of effective therapies, including nutrition, botanical medicine, lifestyle counselling, clinical counselling, hydrotherapy, homeopathy, acupuncture, and more. Treatment often begins with the most gentle, least invasive therapies and progresses, if needed, to more aggressive, more invasive therapies (ex: pharmaceuticals or surgery). Through naturopathic care, we identify and eliminate obstacles to healing, strengthen weakened systems and tissues, provide the building blocks necessary for proper functioning, and support the body’s innate healing mechanisms. By treating the root cause of illness, we are able to achieve healing and support the individual back towards balance. Read more about naturopathic medicine here.

What are the advantages of naturopathic care?

Naturopathic care has many advantages!! The first being that it takes into account and acknowledges the whole individual (body, mind, emotions, soul) throughout the healing process. Naturopathic medicine seeks to find and treat the root cause of your illness which leads to deep healing and prevention of disease progression. Naturopathic care is often more gentle, less invasive, and results in less negative side effects than conventional therapy. It utilities the synergies that are present between different therapies, herbs, and nutrients. This allows for treatments that address multiple issues and organ systems at once, which allows the body to help restore balance. Naturopathic doctors are able to spend ample time with you in visits to get to know your complete health story. This allows them to create individualized treatment plans that are tailored to your unique needs, wants, goals, and physiology. Naturopathic care is great at disease prevention and health optimization, so whatever stage of life you are in, naturopathic medicine has a place in your life.

Do I need to do anything to prepare for my visit?

Yes! Please fill out your initial intake forms prior to your visit. This is extremely helpful as it gives the doctor time to review your case prior to the visit and allows for maximal time during your first visit to discuss relevant details of your case. If you have copies of recent blood work, diagnostic imaging, or other diagnostic testing, bring it with you to your first visit. Be sure to bring a complete list of the medications and supplements you are currently taking (including the brand and dose). If you have any other relevant health tracking data (i.e. diet diary, sleep tracking, female cycle tracking), bring this with you to the visit as well. The more information we can gather, the better!

How long is each visit?

Initial visits are 60 minutes long to ensure time for a thorough medical history, history of presenting illness, pertinent physical exams, and diagnostic workup. Follow up visits range from 15 minutes, 30 minutes, 45 minutes, to 60 minutes long, depending on the nature of the concern and the therapies required. If you are unsure of which type of visit to book, don’t hesitate to reach out by clicking here or call the lovely front desk staff at Luna Health Clinic!

How many visits will I need to resolve my health concern?

How many visits are needed to resolve your health concern will depend upon the individual nature of the illness. Many factors are involved in the healing timeline, including how long the concern has been present, the severity of the illness, the obstacles to healing, the support system present and resources available, and any individual genetic, physiological differences. We will work hard to develop a strong foundation for health which will aid in the healing process, but it remains an extremely individual process. Deep healing takes time, patience, consistent effort, and compassionate support.

Will insurance cover the cost of my visit?

Most extended medical health plans cover naturopathic visits. Inlet Wellness Gallery offers direct billing, meaning that the front desk will submit the visit claim on your behalf. Every plan is different, so be sure to check with your insurance provider regarding the details of your plan and coverage available.

Can naturopathic doctors order lab tests?

Yes, naturopathic doctors do have access to a variety of private labs. This means that we can order lab tests but the cost is not covered by MSP. Patients will pay out of pocket for any lab tests ordered by an ND. Although it is an added cost, lab testing remains an integral part of the diagnostic process and is important in monitoring therapy. If you have any questions about lab testing and/or the types of tests we offer, don’t hesitate to ask.

Do you offer telemedicine?

Yes! We now offer Telehealth visits via phone call or video call for your added comfort, safety, and convenience. Book your visit from the comfort of your own home today!