Frequently Asked Questions

Naturopathic medicine is a distinct system of primary healthcare that combines modern scientific knowledge with traditional and integrative therapeutic approaches. Naturopathic medicine focuses on individualized, patient-centred care and emphasizes prevention, lifestyle, and supporting overall health and wellbeing.

Naturopathic doctors (NDs) are regulated primary healthcare practitioners trained in integrative and patient-centred care. NDs complete training in biomedical and clinical sciences, as well as extensive training in therapeutic approaches including clinical nutrition, botanical medicine, acupuncture, physical medicine, homeopathic medicines, and lifestyle counselling.

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Naturopathic doctors focus on individualized care and work collaboratively with other healthcare professionals to support patient health and wellbeing.

A naturopathic doctor has graduated from a four-year, graduate level, accredited naturopathic medical program, following undergraduate studies in pre-medical and health sciences education.

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Naturopathic doctors receive education in biomedical and clinical sciences, along with extensive training in therapeutic approaches and patient assessment methods. Click here for more information on naturopathic education.

Naturopathic doctors practicing in Nova Scotia must:

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• hold a doctor of naturopathic medicine degree/diploma conferred upon him/her by an accredited naturopathic medical program, legally chartered to grant a four year degree or diploma;
• successfully complete entry-to-practice and licensing examinations recognized and approved by the NSCNR, such as the NPLEX (Naturopathic Physicians Licensing Examinations);
• be licensed by the Nova Scotia Chiropractic and Naturopathic Regulator (NSCNR);
• maintain continuing education requirements set by the NSCNR;
• and carry professional liability insurance.

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‍Learn more about regulation of naturopathic medicine in Nova Scotia here.

When you visit an ND, they will complete an extensive health history and physical examination. They will review your medications and evaluate laboratory tests and diagnostic imaging in order to make a proper diagnosis.

Naturopathic doctors are primary healthcare practitioners and general practitioners of natural medicine. They receive a minimum of 3 years of pre-medical university education, followed by 4 years of education from an accredited naturopathic medical college. Naturopathic doctors utilize a range of treatment modalities, including traditional Chinese medicine, acupuncture, clinical nutrition, homeopathy, physical medicine, botanical medicine, and lifestyle counselling.

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Homeopaths are healthcare practitioners who have been trained in the use of, and who prescribe solely, homeopathic medicines.

Naturopathic medicine is not covered by MSI. However, most private health insurance plans cover naturopathic visits.

Most private health insurance plans provide naturopathic coverage which will cover a percentage of appointments with a naturopathic doctor (depending on your individual plan). You can contact your insurance provider for details on your naturopathic insurance coverage. Appointments with a naturopathic doctor are not covered by health insurance under the category of “acupuncture” unless the providing naturopathic doctor is also a licensed acupuncturist (LAc.).

Naturopathic doctors are primary healthcare providers and therefore you do not need a medical doctor’s referral to see a naturopathic doctor. Some health insurance plans require a referral from a medical doctor for naturopathic care to qualify for coverage, contact your insurance plan provider for details. Find a naturopathic doctor in your area.

The mission and guiding purpose of NSAND is to:

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• provide reliable and current information, resources, news, and events related to naturopathic medicine;
• support and advance the profession of naturopathic medicine in Nova Scotia;
• promote public awareness and understanding of naturopathic medicine; and
• serve as a professional resource and support network for members of the association.