Naturopathic doctors, often called NDs, take a holistic approach to health and wellness. While conventional medical doctors and naturopathic doctors have different training models and treatment philosophies, some people choose naturopathic care because they value a more prevention-focused and lifestyle-centered approach. Here are five reasons someone may choose to work with a naturopathic doctor.
Table of Contents
1. Patient Interaction
2. Rigor of Education
3. Bigger 'Health Arsenal'
4. Cheaper Costs
5. Strong Focus on Prevention
1. More Time for Patient Interaction
A typical visit with a primary care provider can sometimes feel brief. In contrast, naturopathic doctors often spend more time during initial consultations and follow-up visits. This longer appointment time may allow them to gather a more complete picture of a patient’s health history, lifestyle, symptoms, and goals.
2. Rigor of Education
Many people are unfamiliar with the educational path of naturopathic doctors. NDs typically complete a multi-year postgraduate program and may also complete board or licensing exams, depending on the region. Their training often includes foundational medical sciences, as well as nutrition, lifestyle counseling, and other natural or complementary therapies.
3. Bigger 'Health Arsenal'
MDs are limited in the number of treatments they have available to cure certain ailments, and all are likely within the confines of Western medicine. NDs can call upon herb-based therapies, acupuncture, aromatherapy, Chinese medicine, and homeopathy, among others. Moreover, NDs in some areas can also prescribe drugs if necessary, so they have more choices of treatment than standard MDs.
4. Cheaper Costs
Naturopathic doctors will usually implement dietary changes, natural remedies, and certain types of exercise to correct your problem first. These treatments are usually significantly cheaper than prescriptions. In addition to simply treating a symptom, prescriptions can also have harmful side effects, which may then require additional drugs to remedy. The irony, of course, is that these new drugs will also have side effects, wreaking havoc on your health and your wallet. Consider the option of an ND treatment plan before going the traditional MD route.
5. Strong Focus on Prevention
Prevention is a central philosophy in naturopathic care. Rather than focusing only on immediate symptoms, naturopathic doctors often aim to identify underlying contributors to health concerns and support long-term wellness through sustainable lifestyle changes. For many patients, this preventive approach is one of the main reasons they choose naturopathic care.
NDs often get negative press, if any. However, most ailments can be treated by an ND at a far better cost, with greater lasting effects. So, before you run off to the MD, give your local ND a shot. You might be surprised by the outcome.
