What to expect?
In your first visit, Dr DesChâtelets 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 and physical exam results are in and there has been time to thoughtfully consider your case.
The second visit is generally scheduled a week or two later. Any physical exam that is indicated will be performed during your second visit. It is at that time that Dr DesChâtelets 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 visits are usually scheduled in approximately 4–8 weeks from this visit to evaluate progress and make any adjustments in your program.
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 physical exams and screening lab tests. Many people who have multiple complaints are seen more often based on the severity of their condition.
What is my coverage for naturopathic medicine?
Only those MSP beneficiaries with premium assistance status qualify for MSP coverage of naturopathic medicine. The MSP fee reimbursement for eligible beneficiaries is $23.00 per visit for a combined maximum (combined with all eligible providers: chiropractor, acupuncturist, massage therapist, physiotherapist, podiatry) of 10 visits per calendar year.
Most extended health benefits insurance offer some coverage for naturopathic medicine. Please inquire directly with them to see what coverage you are eligible for.
All payments will be received upfront and a receipt will be given so that you can submit independently to receive your eligible reimbursement.
Here is the fee schedule.
How to find a licensed naturopathic physician.
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