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How come I have
never heard of naturopathic medicine before?
Naturopathic medicine first emerged as a distinct medical profession in the
U.S. around 1900. By the 1920’s there were over 20 naturopathic medical
colleges and over 10,000 practicing physicians in the U.S. This unique art
and science of healing began to decline in the 1930’, 40’s and 50’s due to
the advent of antibiotics and faith in the new “quick-fix” medicine.
Today however, many are realizing that pharmaceutical drugs and surgery are
not effective solutions for chronic disease. Toxic drug side-effects,
escalating costs, and depersonalized care are leaving many frustrated
patients in search of alternatives.
The concept of ‘nature cure’ has been around for centuries, however the art
of integrating the wisdom of Mother Nature with the latest medical
technology is relatively new. This combination puts naturopathic medicine
at the cutting edge of healthcare today.
How is a
naturopathic doctor (ND) different from a medical doctor (MD)?
What most people don’t know is that NDs
are licensed primary care physicians that have graduated from four-year
medical schools. In order to obtain their doctorate an ND
must be accepted into one of only six accredited naturopathic medical
schools in North America. The curriculum includes two years of basic
sciences (anatomy, physiology, biochemistry, pathology, microbiology, etc.)
and two years of clinical sciences (pharmacology, minor surgery,
pediatrics, cardiology, gynecology, etc.). Upon graduation, a naturopath
completes extensive board examinations in order to obtain their state
licensure.
NDs set themselves apart from MDs by investigating the cause of disease,
rather than treating symptoms. A naturopathic doctor spends time with their
patient in order to know the whole person; they strive to understand and
identify all factors, whether physical, emotional, or mental, that may be
contributing to an illness. NDs are unique in providing diagnosis and
treatment that bridges both conventional and natural medicine; they
integrate the latest scientific research with the healing power of nature.
NDs refer patients to MDs, DOs, chiropractors, acupuncturists or other
healthcare providers as needed.
Can an ND
perform the same exams and order the same diagnostic tests as an MD?
As primary care providers, NDs are
fully trained in performing physical examinations. This includes any pertinent diagnostic exams required
during a routine office visit, as well as annual/physical exams,
gynecological exams, pediatric and geriatric wellness check-ups, etc.
NDs can also order laboratory evaluations, which include the analysis of
blood, urine, PAP smears, allergy testing, environmental toxicity tests, hormonal
evaluations, etc. Imaging such as x-rays, mammograms, ultrasounds,
DEXA-scans, etc. can also be ordered by your naturopath. In addition, NDs
are authorized to prescribe pharmaceutical drugs if deemed appropriate.
What Conditions
can be successfully treated with naturopathic medicine?
The comprehensive medical training required of NDs allows them to treat a
wide array of both acute and chronic conditions. Some examples include:
Allergies:
asthma, seasonal, environmental, food…
Immune System Support:
colds, flu, respiratory infections, ear infections, sinusitis, diabetes,
autoimmune diseases, hepatitis…
Digestive Disturbances:
acid reflux, ulcers, colitis,
irritable bowel syndrome, constipation, Crohns disease, gallstones,
parasites, candidiasis…
Skin Conditions:
eczema, psoriasis, acne, rashes…
Musculoskeletal
Complaints:
sprains/strains, sciatica, arthritis, osteoporosis, back pain, carpel
tunnel syndrome, fibromyalgia…
Hormone Imbalances:
PMS, thyroid imbalance, insomnia, menopause, adrenal fatigue, blood sugar
problems…
Women’s Health:
menstrual irregularities, abnormal PAPs, vaginal infections, bladder
infections, fibroids, ovarian cysts, infertility…
Men’s Health:
Prostate exams, andropause, erectile dysfunction, impotence, fatigue…
Cardiovascular Problems:
high blood pressure, circulatory problems, congestive heart failure, high
cholesterol,
palpitations…
Pediatrics:
child wellness exams, asthma, allergies…
Neurological Disorders:
headaches, ADD, depression, anxiety,
MS, Alzheimer’s, Parkinson’s…
Other Conditions:
cancer,
stress management, weight control, fatigue, HIV/AIDS, heavy metal toxicity,
and many more…
Is naturopathic
medicine covered by insurance?
More
than 90 insurance carriers in the U.S. and Canada cover naturopathic
medicine, however here in California the coverage is still minimal. The
CNDA (California Naturopathic Doctors Association) is negotiating with
insurance companies to include NDs in their panel of providers. The
American Specialty Health Network is poised to add a rider to their
policies that will cover naturopathic services. Some companies will
reimburse patients who submit a ‘super bill’ provided by their naturopath.
These forms are available upon request.
For
further information on naturopathic medicine contact the CNDA (California
Naturopathic Doctors Association) at http://www.calnd.org/
or the AANP (American Association of Naturopathic Physicians) at http://www.naturopathic.org
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