Naturopathic medicine has been a cornerstone of medicine for many centuries, taking different forms and roles throughout. In its current, modern iteration it is an evolving field with innovative treatments. New methods of assessment and treatment are constantly emerging, empowering both patients and Naturopathic doctors to achieve optimal health goals effectively.
5 questions to ask your naturopathic doctor
If you’re looking for a more holistic approach to your health, look no farther than the incredible benefits that Naturopathic medicine can provide. Below are some key questions to ask that will help you find the right naturopathic doctor in Calgary.
1. Why did you choose to become a Naturopathic doctor?
One of the first questions to ask a naturopathic doctor is why they chose this career path. While by no means exclusively the case, many NDs choose this calling because of their personal health experiences. Often, they themselves may have been helped by Naturopathic medicine, driven by the desire to provide these benefits for others.
By asking this question of them, one might quickly understand their background, and what may motivate them to practice Naturopathic Medicine in Calgary. Often, their story is a great insight into their values, their principles, and the care they devote to each of their patients.
2. What are your credentials?
To practice as a Naturopathic doctor in Calgary, one must have the required education and extensive training in the field. If your ND operates in a reputable clinic and is regulated by the College of Naturopathic Doctors of Alberta, you can rest assured that they have the right credentials and skills to effectively treat patients.
3. What can I expect in my initial consultation?
Typically, an initial consultation involves your ND asking questions about your health history, current conditions, and your health goals. A qualified naturopathic doctor aims to obtain a comprehensive medical history, asking questions to determine the root causes of your illness or discomfort. During the consultation, this is also an opportunity for you to ask questions regarding your health, as understanding your health challenges is key to your success.
4. How will you determine my health issues?
Following the initial consultation, to complement any questions pertaining to health history or physical exams, your ND may request an additional series of tests to ascertain the underlying causes of an illness. These tests can include blood, urine, stool or saliva testing to identify any deviations from good health, such as nutrient deficiencies, hormone imbalances, food sensitivities and more.
One of the fundamental principles of Naturopathic medicine is that your body operates functionally and holistically, as opposed to independently or each system disconnected from one another. An issue in one system can lead to problems in another. By determining the root cause of the issue, your Naturopathic doctor can assist your body to optimize its health and function, and begin to heal as a whole.
5. How will you determine if the treatments are working?
Once you are provided with a treatment plan, your ND will monitor your progress regularly. The variance in treatment effectiveness often lies in the idea that no two patients are exactly alike, and each health challenge that may appear similarly may in fact be unique. Some health concerns may resolve rapidly, while others may take longer, and may require further re-evaluation and adjustment to treatment plans accordingly.
Fundamentally, your Naturopathic doctor will work with you to create a treatment plan based on your unique needs and will strive to achieve improvements for your overall health and wellness.
