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Common Questions

How are Naturopathic Doctors (N.D.) trained?

After receiving a bachelor's degree emphasizing the basic pre-medical sciences, Naturopathic Physicians complete a rigorous four-year doctoral medical program at an accredited university (see links page). Naturopathic training includes 2 years of basic medical sciences—anatomy, physiology, pathology, diagnosis, biochemistry-- followed by completion of the national basic science board exams. Other subjects focus on the study of disease, diagnosis, and treatments. Naturopathic therapeutics and principles are the emphasis, but conventional medical practices are also incorporated to provide appropriate choices for the patient. 1500 hours of supervised direct clinical experience is mandatory as well as 250 hours of outside observational training in private practice or hospital settings.

Naturopathic Physicians are primary care physicians; the first line providers for diagnosis and treatment of acute and chronic conditions. We emphasize the need for gentle and effective first, with drugs and surgery being the last resort. They also serve those whose treatment by conventional medicine has not met their needs by providing alternative choices, as well as integrating alternative therapies with conventional practices.

Upon graduation, completion of rigorous national and individual state board exams are necessary for the licensure of Doctor of Naturopathic Medicine (N.D.).

What Can I Expect When I Visit a Naturopathic Physician?

Time: We spend time with you.

Comprehensive: Typically our patients comment that their visit was the most thorough medical experience they have ever had. You’ll notice that our visits are longer and more in-depth. Our questions and exams are investigative and evaluate your whole body. This is accomplished by taking an in-depth patient history, appropriate physical exams and diagnostic testing.

Dedication: The goal of the Naturopathic Doctor is to work with the patient to determine the root cause of your health concerns, not just treat symptoms.
Support: We will also work with your conventional physician to provide adjunctive care.

Will my Insurance Cover Treatments?

Though we are a fee-for-service medical practice, we are delighted to assist you with insurance reimbursement. Because we value our patients care above all, we have chosen against participation as preferred providers with HMOs. Currently in California, Health Savings Account plans offer the best reimbursement for Naturopathic Medical Care.

Call your insurance provider and inquire about your plan and ask whether the insurance policy you bought includes Naturopathic physicians as primary care providers. Each company and policy is different; however, many insurance companies are now covering Naturopathic Medicine as they see the added benefit of preventive care and establishing health and wellness.
What about lab work?

N.D.'s will draw blood and order the necessary lab work as well as interpret the results and provide treatment. Many Naturopathic Physicians are linked with a local lab so the blood draw and testing will be completed at one site. If not, the physician will draw your blood and send it to the nearest lab for evaluation.
What if I need an X-ray or additional treatment?

You will be sent for the necessary imaging study whether that be a plain film x-ray, a bone scan, MRI, CT, or ultrasound. A naturopathic doctor is well trained in diagnostic imaging and will order the appropriate x-ray study. Naturopathic doctors, as well as all physicians, know when to refer you to a specialist for further evaluation and treatment. We work closely with the medical community to provide you with optimal care by meeting your needs and sharing options, so that you can make an informed choice and play a vital role in your healthcare decision-making.

Can Naturopathic doctors prescribe prescription drugs?

Currently in California, licensed NDs are granted prescription privileges for naturally derived prescription items, which includes antibiotics, vitamins, minerals, hormones, etc. An ND is well trained in pharmacology and will provide you with choices, as well as take into account any allergies or interactions with other medications.

What if I'm taking prescription medications, will herbs interact with them?

There are certain drug-nutrient and drug-herbal interactions that need to be taken into consideration when devising an individual treatment plan. Certain herbs and nutrients can have adverse effects when combined with prescription drugs. Your naturopathic doctor is aware of the interactions and will avoid all possible combinations. However, it is essential that you provide your doctor with a list of all current medications as well as any allergies.

What is included in the first visit?

Set aside a hour and a half for your visit with the Naturopathic doctor. We will take a complete history, examine you thoroughly, consider necessary labwork needed for your care, and develop a clear treatment plan. The second visit will be 45 minutes and the visits thereafter, generally a half-hour.