Naturopathic Medicine: Increasing Access to Medical Care on Vancouver Island

What role does a Naturopathic Doctor play in the current medical system?

Currently, one in five people in British Columbia do not have access to a general healthcare practitioner¹. Although there is no easy way to solve this healthcare crisis, could the support of a Naturopathic Physician increase access to medical care and decrease the burden on a general practitioner?

A Naturopathic Doctor (ND) has the unique ability to provide another stream of primary care for residents of British Columbia. In British Columbia, ND’s have a scope of practice that allows for management of a wide array of medical ailments. This includes the ability to perform physical exams, order a variety of laboratory tests and imaging, and prescribe necessary prescription medications².

What can a Naturopathic Doctor do for me?

Chronic Illness Management: 

• When faced with a lifelong diagnosis, accessing the degree of medical care necessary to live a comfortable life can be difficult. A Naturopathic Doctor can bridge the gap by working alongside other medical practitioners to enable patients to live comfortably. In the case of chronic illness an ND can provide access to longer appointments, order screening tests, and prescribe appropriate medicines as well as guiding the patient with lifestyle modifications to alleviate symptoms. This could include, but is not limited to, conditions such as: chronic pain, hypertension, diabetes, skin concerns, mental health concerns, gastrointestinal concerns, chronic respiratory concerns, and urogenital concerns.

What Are The Barriers to Naturopathic Access?

• Naturopathic medical care is not covered by MSP but is covered, to a degree, by most extended medical care plans. The biggest barrier to Naturopathic access is paying out of pocket for medical care.

Naturopathic medical care is complementary to the current medical system in British Columbia. Accessible medical care is critical, and knowing the role a Naturopathic Doctor can play in the healthcare system is highly valuable.

*For any emergency or critical medical care, immediately seek emergency medical attention*

References

1. https://www.cbc.ca/news/canada/british-columbia/bc-health-care-crisis-doctor-shortage-situation-critical-townhall-1.6588286

2. https://cnpbc.bc.ca/for-registrants/resources/standards-practice/