FAQ
Frequently Asked Questions
Do I need to bring anything to my first visit?
Ideally you will have already filled in your patient intake form, including a list of current and recent medications and/or natural health products you may have been taking; however if you have not, then please arrive 15-20 minutes before the start of your visit to do so. It would also be of benefit to bring in copies of any recent lab work or medical imaging results you may have, as they will provide valuable information. Finally, while not necessary, it is advisable to wear loose and comfortable clothing to facilitate any physical examination that might be performed. Also, never hesitate to bring in a list of questions!
If I have more than one health concern can I discuss them all during one appointment?
Yes. You are encouraged to bring all of your health issues to the table when visiting a naturopathic doctor; Dr. Rade is here to assist you with whatever might be ailing you, and by hearing a complete account of your concerns he can follow the naturopathic principle of “Treat the Whole Patient”. While a treatment plan may initially focus more on your most pressing health concerns, it will ideally touch on the majority of them in some way. In due course, as those foremost concerns improve, more attention can be given to those areas that still require it.
How long will it take for naturopathic care to make me feel better?
This really depends upon the nature of the condition you are presenting with. Acute conditions like a common cold or ear infection will likely clear up within days. Chronic conditions like persistent indigestion or lifelong allergies will gradually improve with more time, possibly over weeks or months. In keeping with the naturopathic principle of “Doctor as Teacher”, Dr. Rade will frequently discuss his prognostic assessment of your condition over the course of your treatment. By doing so, it is his hope that you will have a clear understanding of your evolving state of health.
What kind of training do naturopathic doctors receive?
Before becoming a naturopathic doctor, aspiring NDs must first complete three years of university undergraduate training to fulfill prerequisite science requirements. The student must then attend one of six accredited North American naturopathic colleges for four years of professional studies (Dr. Rade attended the Canadian College of Naturopathic Medicine in Toronto, Ontario). Accredited naturopathic programs involve intensive training in core sciences, physical examination, diagnostic techniques, and naturopathic treatment applications. The final year of study consists of a clinical internship during which students treat patients under the guidance of a supervising ND. Upon graduating with a diploma of naturopathic medicine, naturopathic doctors must complete North American board exams and provincial board exams to obtain licensure and become eligible to start a practice.
Is naturopathic medicine regulated in Nova Scotia?
Regulation refers to a government-associated board of individuals who ensure that the practitioners of a given profession (in this case, naturopathic medicine) are practicing in such a way that is safe for the public. Naturopathic medicine is not yet officially regulated in Nova Scotia, although it is regulated in Ontario, Alberta, British Columbia, Manitoba, and Saskatchewan, as well as many of the United States. A naturopathic doctor practicing in Nova Scotia must be licensed under the regulatory board of one of those regulated provinces to become a member of the Nova Scotia Association of Naturopathic Doctors (NSAND). As alluded to above, this ensures professional integrity and accountability to the public. Thanks to these measures, the absence of provincial regulation in Nova Scotia does not have a negative impact on patient care under a registered naturopathic doctor; however, it does mean that patients have to make sure the naturopathic doctor they are seeing is indeed licensed. As such, the naturopathic medical profession encourages all patients to ask his or her ND if he or she graduated from an accredited naturopathic college and whether the ND is a member of the NSAND.
Are NDs part of a professional association?
Yes, many NDs are members of the Canadian Association of Naturopathic Doctors (CAND) as well as their respective provincial organization. In Nova Scotia, the provincial organization is called the Nova Scotia Association of Naturopathic Doctors (NSAND), which requires mandatory co-membership with the CAND.
Are naturopathic doctors opposed to conventional medicine?
Absolutely not. Naturopathic doctors, like many healthcare practitioners, believe in a comprehensive approach to health that utilizes the strengths of each individual medical profession. This is exemplified in the profession’s preference for the use of the term complimentary medicine as opposed to alternative medicine. Complimentary implies a mutually beneficial relationship, whereas alternative suggests that a patient must choose one practice instead of the other.
Can I safely receive naturopathic medical care while I’m taking pharmaceutical drugs?
Yes you can. While some naturopathic therapies can influence pharmaceutical medications, NDs are well aware of these interactions and know how to properly manage them. This could be through modifying the dose of the treatment given or the selecting a naturopathic therapy that will not interact at all. Pharmacology is a core component of naturopathic education and makes up a significant portion of naturopathic licensing examinations. Indeed, NDs in British Columbia and several American States currently have prescription rights to certain drugs like antibiotics and anti-inflammatory medications, with forthcoming approval in Ontario and Alberta.
What is the difference between a naturopathic doctor and a homeopath?
Homeopathy is a medicinal technique in which very low concentrations of different remedies are used in a specific manner to treat patient illness. Homeopaths use homeopathic remedies when they treat patients. Naturopathic doctors use homeopathy in addition to a host of other techniques, such as traditional Asian medicine, botanical medicine, nutritional counseling, and others.
Will I have to spend a long time in the waiting room before being called for my appointment?
No. Everyone’s time is valuable, a fact that Dr. Rade is most sensitive to. As such, when you book an appointment time at the clinic you can rest assured that your appointment slot is reserved for you and you alone, with no attempts at double- or triple-booking.
Is naturopathic medicine covered under provincial healthcare?
Visits to a naturopathic doctor are not covered under provincial healthcare; however, many third party insurance plans do provide coverage. Please speak with your insurance carrier for details.