Frequently Asked Questions
Learn more about naturopathic medicine, naturopathic doctor training, insurance coverage, direct billing, and professional supplements.
What's the difference between naturopathic medicine and conventional western medicine?
Both offer primary health care and require similar educational training. The major differences are in the philosophical approach and therapeutic methods. Instead of conventional medicine's use of surgery and pharmaceutical drugs, naturopathic medicine promotes the body's self-healing using therapies such as clinical nutrition, botanical medicine, Chinese medicine, including acupuncture, food therapy and herbs, lifestyle counselling, and much more.
Who can benefit from naturopathic medicine?
Naturopathic medicine may be of interest to:
- People looking for alternatives to pharmaceutical medications
- People looking for health promotion and disease prevention strategies
- People with symptoms they cannot address on their own or with the help of other health practitioners
- People looking to combine conventional and naturopathic treatments while minimizing negative side effects
- People with serious, life-threatening conditions looking to improve their quality of life
- People who want to achieve their best health possible for years to come
In other words, naturopathic medicine can benefit everyone, subject to an individualized assessment and appropriate medical care.
What type of training do naturopathic doctors receive?
Naturopathic doctors (NDs) are primary health-care providers who integrate standard medical diagnostics with a broad range of natural therapies. Similar to regular medical doctors, NDs require 3–4 years of pre-medical post-secondary education, plus 4 years of full-time study at an approved school of naturopathic medicine. Following completion of their program, NDs must successfully complete standard national exams in order to qualify for licensing in regulated provinces.
Is naturopathic medicine covered by health insurance plans?
Most extended health benefit plans through employment in Canada provide some coverage for naturopathic treatments. Currently, naturopathic medicine is not covered by Alberta Health Care. Please contact your insurance company for information on your specific plan.
Do you offer direct billing?
Yes. Naturopathic visits can be billed directly to most major extended health insurance plans. Some companies include Sun Life, Great-West Life, Green Shield, Manulife, and more. Please contact your insurance company for further details regarding your individual plan.
What is the benefit of using supplements from a professional company?
Nutritional and herbal supplements may be prescribed by your naturopathic doctor. They are widely available across Canada but vary greatly in quality and safety. Choosing professional products can help ensure that you are getting products that have been researched, developed, and tested for safety and effectiveness. For your convenience, Dr. Yeung carries professional-brand supplements to help support your health goals.