In Canada, all naturopathic doctors receive comprehensive training in natural therapies, encompassing clinical nutrition, botanical medicine, homeopathic medicine, physical medicine, Traditional Chinese Medicine/Acupuncture, as well as preventive techniques and lifestyle counselling.

Once licensed, naturopathic doctors have the opportunity to pursue additional advanced therapies. In Alberta, these advanced therapies may include IV therapies, chelation therapy, ozone therapy, and minor surgery.

Currently, the Alberta Health Insurance Plan (AHCIP) does not provide coverage for the fees associated with health care services offered by Naturopathic Doctors. However, many private health insurance plans, such as Alberta Blue Cross, do offer coverage for naturopathic medicine. To determine the extent of coverage for these services, it is advisable to contact your specific benefits provider.

While there may be variations in treatment approaches, in many cases, naturopathic doctors and medical doctors collaborate as part of a patient's healthcare team. Their treatments can complement each other, with the goal of promoting the patient's overall well-being.

Both naturopathic doctors (NDs) and conventional doctors provide primary care and undergo similar training. However, the primary differences lie in their philosophical approach and therapeutic methods.

Naturopathic doctors focus on treating patients as individuals, taking into account their physical, environmental, lifestyle and emotional aspects of health. This holistic approach enables them to identify and address the root cause of the disease, utilizing a range of therapies and leveraging the body's innate ability to heal itself. On the other hand, conventional doctors typically concentrate on managing and alleviating the symptoms of diseases through pharmaceutical interventions or surgical procedures.

1. Undergraduate Education: A Bachelor's degree in a relevant field, such as biology, chemistry, or pre-medical studies, is typically required.

2. Naturopathic Medical School: Graduates must complete a four-year program at an accredited naturopathic medical school. These schools offer a curriculum that combines conventional medical sciences with natural therapies. Additionally, naturopathic medical students gain practical experience through clinical rotations and internships.

3. Licensing Examinations: After graduation, aspiring naturopathic doctors must pass rigorous licensing examinations.

4. Continuing Education: To maintain their licensure and stay up-to-date with the latest advancements in the field, naturopathic doctors are required to participate in continuing education courses. These courses ensure ongoing professional development and allow practitioners to provide the best care possible to their patients.