Hello From Dr Mélanie
Understanding The Virtual Video Model
I’ve been a licensed BC naturopathic doctor since 2010 exclusively practicing in Vancouver & Burnaby, BC. As of September 1st, 2018, I have transitioned to a hybrid model. For most of you, this is excellent news. Most of my availability is for telemedicine. A simple, secure, zoom video platform where we meet face to face. We will not be meeting at a physical location. No more traffic, no more parking, no more unpredictable lower mainland driving times. For parents: Much easier childcare planning. For high performers short on time: Squeeze an appointment in from work, home or school on a break. For those in remote BC locations, minimize your commute and access naturopathic care from the convenience of your home.
Studies On Video Telemedicine
98% reported saving travel time*
87% avoided a work absence*
39% saving in caregiving arrangements*
Over 70% of healthcare appointments do not need to be in person*
*Study: Virtual Visits in British Columbia: 2015 Patient Survey and Physician Interview Study, Canada Health Infoway 2016; Telemed J E Health. 2014 Sep 1; 20(9): 769–800.
How does it work?
Step 1: My practice focus is on women’s health from menses to menopause, digestion from constipation, gas, bloating, SIBO, IBS and lifestyle/nutrition counselling, metabolic health, weight management and environmental allergies. If this sounds like you, then please Apply to Become A New Patient (<3min). Appointments are for BC residents only. But if you are a non-BC resident you may still apply, some programs will be available to you.
Step 2: Once we have reviewed the application, we will set up a complimentary meeting and discuss the next available appointments.
Step 3: Fill out your intake form before your visit, so you are not spending your valuable visit time filling out forms. Dr. Melanie will best prepare for your visit. Yes, she will review the questionnaire before you walk in. This process allows for a more effective & efficient first visit. Before your appointment, look for your appointment email from Practice better. Just click on your private and secure link at the time of your visit. Didn’t I say it was simple?
Step 4: Have a fabulous visit with Dr. Mélanie
Step 5: Discuss your treatment plan. And, when indicated, the laboratory requisition is sent directly to your preferred lab and the prescription is sent directly to your preferred pharmacy. Supplement recommendations are shipped right to your door.
Step 6: Processed payment and receive a receipt, eligible for naturopathic coverage.
Step 7. Repeat. To Better Health.
Please note, my areas of focus are most conducive to virtual care: Most chronic digestive concerns, most chronic women’s health concerns, and metabolic and lifestyle goals. A referral is suggested when something falls outside the scope or requires a physical exam.
Prescriptions will only be given to concerns that can responsibly be assessed via virtual means. Most often, prescriptions that can be recommended based on history and laboratory results.
The Naturopathic Process With Dr. Mélanie
First Visit
Dr Mélanie will obtain a complete medical history. The key to naturopathic medicine is treating each person as an individual and getting to the root cause of health problems. That generally entails a detailed conversation about your current state of health, health history, family history, diet, lifestyle habits, etc. At that point, Dr DesChâtelets will discuss with you potential approaches and recommended laboratory workups. This visit will last approximately 60 minutes and is primarily an information gathering and sharing session. Dr DesChâtelets may make some simple recommendations at this time, but most advice will be deferred until after lab results are in and there has been time to thoughtfully consider your case.
Second Visit
The second visit is generally scheduled a week or two later. It is at that time that she will discuss the review of findings. This includes what may be causing your health problems and what supplementation (vitamin, minerals, herbs), diet, and lifestyle changes may be needed, as well as any or other medications that may be appropriate for your care.
Follow-Up
Follow-up visits are usually scheduled in approximately 4–12 weeks from this visit to evaluate progress and make any adjustments in your program. For most people, a minimum commitment of 6 visits is required for sustainable benefits.
Big Picture
How often you see Dr DesChâtelets after that will depend on why you are being treated. Some healthy people see Dr DesChâtelets only once to twice a year for screening lab tests. Many people who have multiple complaints are seen more often based on the severity of their condition.
FAQs
How to find a licensed naturopathic physician in Canada, USA & BC
Dr Mélanie is a licensed naturopathic doctor in BC.
College of Naturopathic Physicians of British Columbia
If you are not a British Columbian resident please see these resources to find an ND licensed in your country/province/territory.
In order to find a licensed naturopathic physician in North America go to the following websites and access the ‘Find an ND’. All Naturopathic Physicians in these databases have a current license which indicates that they have graduated from an accredited school. They have passed all required licensing examinations in their respective jurisdictions and have remained current with continuing education requirements.
Canadian Association of Naturopathic Doctors
American Association of Naturopathic Physicians
British Columbia Naturopathic Association
How Easy Is It To Connect to A Secure Video? For Computers/Laptop
Step 1: Check your email
Keep an eye out for an email to be received 1hr prior to your appointment with:
Subject: Appointment with Dr. Melanie DesChatelets
From: "Dr Mélanie DesChâtelets, BSc(h), ND" <notifications@practicebetter.io>
Or if you have the Better by Practice Better Portal setup. Login to you account and 1hr prior to your appointment you'll see the link in upcoming appointment.
Step 2: At The Time Of Your Appointment Click Blue Link
At the time of your appointment click on the blue link within this email " join the session using Zoom ". This is your private and secure link and will automatically open in the Zoom app on your smartphone/tablet.
For instruction on how to join from a laptop/computer. Check the FAQs.
Step 3: System Check At Anytime
Nervous the connection might not work? Prior to your visit, test your computer setup and internet connection in the location you will attend the visit. If you are like most people you'll have the reassurance that your system meets all requirements and that your internet is fast enough for the visit.
Alternative way if you are a current patient and have the Better by Practice Better Patient Portal Setup
1 hour prior to your appointment time, your secure zoom link and appointment will appear under the tab upcoming appointments on both the web version and app version. Login here.
How Easy Is It To Connect To Secure Video? For Smartphones/Tablets
Step 1A: First Time Only On New Tablet/Smartphone Device
Download the Zoom App on the tablet or smartphone device you will be using.
Step 1B: Check your email from the device you will be using
Keep an eye out for an email to be received 1hr prior to your appointment with:
Subject: Appointment with Dr. Melanie DesChatelets
From: "Dr Mélanie DesChâtelets, BSc(h), ND" <notifications@practicebetter.io>
Step 2: At The Time Of Your Appointment Click Blue Link
At the time of your appointment click on the blue link within this email " join the session using Zoom ". This is your private and secure link and will automatically open in the Zoom app on your smartphone/tablet.
For instruction on how to join from a laptop/computer. Check the FAQs.
Step 3: System Check At Anytime
Nervous the connection might not work? Prior to your visit, test your computer setup and internet connection in the location you will attend the visit. If you are like most people you'll have the reassurance that your system meets all requirements and that your internet is fast enough for the visit.
Understanding Extended Health Insurance & Health Saving Account
Most extended health benefits insurance or Health saving accounts offer some coverage for naturopathic medicine. Most frequently naturopathic appointment and laboratory testing are covered. Individualized supplement prescriptions are rarely covered under extended health plans. This is a general guideline, every plan is different, please inquire directly with your insurance provider to see what coverage you are eligible for.
All payments will be received at the time of service, and a receipt will be given so that you can submit independently to receive your eligible reimbursement.
What Kind Of Laboratory Testing Is Available
Dr. Mélanie can order conventional lab tests available through your local Lifelabs. For example, to check for anemias, thyroid conditions, hormonal conditions, cardiovascular risk factors, fertility workups and more.
Dr. Mélanie can also order more specialized functional & naturopathic testing through a variety of labs in North America.
For example:
Comprehensive Hormones Testing
Comprehensive Stool Testing
Small Intestinal Bacterial Overgrowth Testing
Food Sensitivity & Intolerance Testing
Are you curious if Dr. Mélanie offers a specific laboratory test? Contact us, and we will let you know.
Most lab testing is covered through extended health plans & health saving plans. Inquire with your insurance company for individualized
Booking Or Changing An Appointment
#1 Instant Booking
For Virtual Video Appointment Book online here.
See the entire schedule and book when convenient for you. Instant appointment confirmation.
#2: Appointment Request
For Virtual Appointment or in-person appointment, request contact us.
Please specify preferred week, preferred day of the week Wed, Thur or Sat and acceptable time frames. Our team will be happy to help. The appointment will be confirmed within 48hrs.
For example, the week of September 10-14, On Wednesday anytime after 2pm or between 10am-2pm
#3: Call 604.200.7856.
Our team will be happy to help, they will submit an appointment request on your behalf, and the appointment will be confirmed within 48hrs.
Cancellation Policy
Please note 48 hr cancellation policy in effect. Any appointment cancelled with less than 48hrs notice will incur the original cost of the appointment. We have a heart if you have an extenuating circumstance give us a shout. But please understand we typically have a waitlist and a last minute cancellation would have otherwise been filled by another patient.
To cancel an upcoming appointment or view your treatment plan: Go Here
Fee Schedule
Here is my up to date fee schedule.
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