Typically, when people hear the phrase “naturopathic doctor”, they sometimes mistakenly believe that individual is not a “real” doctor. However, the reality is that a naturopathic doctor in San Diego can provide a patient with the same high level of care that a conventional doctor does. You may find that a naturopathic doctor can address an immediate ailment or a chronic condition and help you develop a treatment plan that will enhance your overall quality of life. Here are four things that you may not know about naturopathic doctors.
Fact #1: Naturopathic doctors must attend medical school
Many people have a common misconception that since naturopathic medicine is different from “traditional” medicine, naturopathic doctors don’t need to go to medical school. This couldn’t be further from the truth. In fact, Naturopathic Physicians/Doctors (ND) must attend accredited, four years in residence postgraduate medical schools where they are educated in all the same biomedical sciences as MDs/DOs. They must complete a minimum of 4,100 class & clinical training hours. They must take competency exams like their MD/DO colleagues after years two and four. Fun Fact: NDs have an average of 191 credits during their first two years of medical school versus 91 for their MD/DO colleagues!
Fact #2: Naturopathic doctors combine natural medicine and conventional medicine
One of the best things about a naturopathic treatment plan is that naturopathic doctors take a holistic approach to your care. Although we will always promote natural medicine, such as diet and lifestyle, supplements, herbal medicine, homeopathy, physical medicine, hydrotherapy, and natural supplements, this doesn’t mean that we’ll never use conventional medicine in your treatment plan. To recommend a course of action, we will review your health history, perform physical exams, and typically order diagnostics such as blood work, urine, stool, and/or saliva testing. From there, we can help you develop a naturopathic treatment plan that you feel comfortable with, and that benefits you.
Fact # 3: Naturopathic doctors perform a comprehensive assessment
Although there is nothing wrong with receiving care from a traditional medical doctor, you will quickly notice that a naturopathic doctor will take a more comprehensive approach to your care. In many cases, when you see a conventional doctor for the first time, you will likely see that this initial consultation doesn’t last any longer than 15 or 20 minutes, depending on the circumstances. However, when you initially meet with one of our naturopathic doctors, you can expect to spend approximately 60-90 minutes talking about your health struggles and goals, getting physical exams, and immediate treatment when needed. We want to ensure that you receive the most value from your treatment plan. Therefore, we focus on providing you with this extended consultation. Not only will we help you develop a treatment plan, but you will have follow-up appointments to review that treatment plan and make any changes as needed.
Fact #4: Naturopathic doctors follow a unique set of principles
Those who aren’t familiar with what a naturopathic doctor is may believe that they sometimes go on a whim when diagnosing or treating ailments. However, naturopathic doctors abide by six principles of naturopathic medicine. These principles highlight the fact that naturopathic doctors will never do anything to cause harm to their patients and that they will incorporate the healing power of nature to treat their patients. Also, naturopathic doctors work to act as a teacher for their patients and help them to understand the preventative steps they can take to live healthier happy lives.
Book Your Appointment with Our Naturopathic Doctors Today
Do you have more questions about what a naturopathic doctor can do for you? We recommend that you take advantage of the opportunity to meet with our naturopathic doctors. You can rest assured that we will take the time to listen to your concerns and provide you with a course of action that will help you improve your quality of life. Get in touch with us today to schedule your appointment with our naturopathic doctors.
Testimonial from Olive, Satisfied Naturopathic Patient in San Diego
Dr. Ginger is such an amazing human being. Not only is she so knowledgeable about many things, but her kind and nurturing nature is one of a kind. She helped me navigate my worries and guide me in the right direction. I’m truly appreciative of Dr. Ginger and the beautiful loving space they created for their clients.