FAQ
Frequently Asked Questions
What training does a Naturopathic Doctor have? Naturopathic doctors attend a 4 year graduate level medical school during which they are trained to be primary care physicians as well as extensive education in natural modalities including clinical nutrition, homeopathy, botanical medicine, hydrotherapy, physical medicine, mind-body medicine and lifestyle counseling. Yearly continuing education is required to stay up-to-date with the latest advancements in medicine.
What is the difference between a naturopathic doctor, a homeopath, nutritionist and herbalist? Naturopathic doctors are trained as primary care physicians, which is not true of homeopaths, nutritionist or herbalists. Naturopathic doctors are trained in the modalities of homeopathy, nutrition and herbal medicine, which are combined with other modalities used to tailor your treatment to your individual needs.
Will my insurance cover my naturopathic appointments? Insurance coverage depends on the policy that you purchase. If your policy covers our services, please notify us and we will be happy to provide you with an invoice that includes insurance codes. You will be responsible for payment at the time of service as well as the submittal, all communications and reimbursement from your insurance company.
What states currently offer licensure for Naturopathic Doctors? Currently, 26 jurisdictions (23 states plus the District of Columbia, Puerto Rico, and the U.S. Virgin Islands) have licensing or registration laws for naturopathic doctors (NDs/NMDs). In these jurisdictions, naturopathic doctors are required to graduate from accredited four-year residential naturopathic medical programs and pass an extensive postdoctoral board examination (NPLEX) in order to receive a license or registration. Licensed and registered NDs have a specific scope of practice as defined by their state’s law, and must fulfill State-mandated continuing education and reporting requirements. For information about the Naturopathic Physicians Licensing Examination Board (NPLEX), the North American Board of Naturopathic Examiners (NABNE), and a list of licensed states, please go to the education page on the American Association of Naturopathic Medicine’s website at www.naturopathic.org. Wisconsin became a licensed state in 2022.
How can I get the most out of my visit? When scheduling your appointment, please be specific about your needs and appointment type. Prior to your appointment, please download and completely fill out the forms found on this website and bring them to your appointment. Bring a list of your prescription medications and dosages. Bring recent laboratory and radiology reports. Please ask questions, make a list ahead of time if you would like. It is important for you to understand what‘s going on in your body and what can be done about it.
Does acupuncture hurt? Acupuncture needles differ significantly in design when compared to the syringes used to draw blood or inject medications. Acupuncture needles are extremely fine (only slightly thicker than a single strand of human hair) and come to a tapered solid point . Due to this needle fineness and the speed of insertion, patients usually experience no pain. Acupuncture treatments are usually very relaxing, so much so, that the patients sometimes falls asleep during the treatment.
Is acupuncture safe? Yes. Acupuncture is extremely safe when performed by a licensed professional. All needles are sterilized, one time use, disposable and FDA approved. The most common side effect of acupuncture is occasional local, minor bruising.