FAQ

As each extended healthcare benefits provider has their own requirements to be met for reimbursement, you should review your benefit plan to find this information. All of our healthcare providers are licensed professionals in the province in Ontario, and will likely be covered under extended healthcare benefits if you have coverage for their healthcare profession.

No, we do not direct bill. We will provide you with an invoice which includes your healthcare providers full name, designation, and license number, will you be required to submit to your Extended Healthcare Benefits provider.

No. Your comfort is the most important aspect of a Massage Therapy Treatment. Sarah is trained in proper draping protocol to ensure you receive the utmost respect in privacy and safety during your treatment. If you are uncomfortable in any way during the treatment, it is important to let Sarah know immediately.

Sarah would like you to let her know immediately, whether that discomfort involves the treatment, draping or any pain you may experience. Sarah would like you to let her know immediately,

Everyone’s pain threshold and pain tolerance is different. Massage Therapy is the manipulation of the soft tissues of the body including fascia, muscles, connective tissue, tendons, ligaments and joints. To reach your symptoms of pain, multiple levels of connective tissue may need to be worked through. It is paramount that you let Sarah know if you’re experiencing excessive discomfort during your treatment.

It is recommended that a follow-up treatment is booked one week after your initial treatment to see how the soft tissues of your body have responded. Although every patient is unique, this is a great way to ensure you are receiving the best care possible. After the second treatment, you will discuss an individualized treatment plan depending on the condition of your tissues, and the severity of your pain.

Naturopathic Medicine is not the same as homeopathy.  Naturopathic practitioners are trained to use homeopathy as a part of a holistic treatment plan if indicated, however, licensed Naturopathic Doctors will also employ other modalities, such as lab testing, dietary counselling, nutritional supplementation, acupuncture, and lifestyle interventions.

Yes, Naturopathic Doctors are regulated in Ontario under the College of Naturopaths of Ontario. All licensed NDs complete a minimum of three years university-level training, including pre-medical courses, then four years at an accredited naturopathic medical college.  In naturopathic programs, NDs study the same basic medical and clinical sciences as other health care professionals, like MDs or RNs.  Anyone seeing an ND should expect to be dealing with a highly trained professional who has met comprehensive standards in order to practice. As regulated professionals, NDs are accountable for their conduct and practice.  Naturopathic Doctor and Naturopath are protected titles. That means that only people who have demonstrated the education and qualification to practice can use the title. 

Yes, Naturopathic Doctors can order labs in Ontario, however, these labs are not covered under OHIP and must be paid for by the patient.  Naturopathic Doctors cannot, at this time, requisition any imaging studies such as an ultrasound or an MRI.

Yes, NDs in Ontario who have met the standard for prescribing substances as set forth by the regulatory college may prescribe certain medications at this time.  This process involves completing a 4 month course and pharmaceutical and prescribing examination above and beyond the national naturopathic board examinations.  Currently, NDs who have met the above standard in Ontario can prescribe bio-identical hormones, thyroid medication, high doses of certain vitamins and can administer nutrient injection therapy.

Naturopathic education includes pharmaceutical courses so an ND can learn about prescription drugs and understand the risks and benefits to our patients.  NDs must be able to develop and monitor evidence-based therapeutic plans within the context of natural supplements as well as other pharmaceuticals that other regulated health practitioners may have prescribed.  NDs are highly equipped to evaluate all potential interactions and advise you appropriately.

No, you do not require a referral to book an appointment with a Naturopathic Doctor.

No, not all NDs are licensed to perform IV Therapy.  To perform this regulated act, ND’s must successfully complete a course and examination in Intravenous Infusion Therapy. The ND must also complete the premise Inspection program as set forth by the regulatory college and engage in ongoing continuing education specific to IV nutrient therapy.

Bioenergetic testing is a non-invasive, computer based investigative technique which measures the energy of the body to assist in determining potential causes of health imbalances. Readings are taken by holding two brass handles while the software delivers electromagnetic waveform signatures of thousands of potential bodily imbalances while tiny changes in the electrical resistance of your skin are monitored.  Bio-energetic testing is not a new testing procedure, but rather a product of a 30-year evolution in Biological Bio-feedback testing by Dr. Voll and Dr. Werner. 

At DOCERE, we utilize QEST4 technology.  It is used as a tool in every Naturopathic consultation to gain additional insight into your current state of health.  It is not intended to diagnose any condition, but when used in conjunction with a thorough intake and physical exam, it can shed light on possible imbalances that can be treated or further investigated using lab tests or appropriate referrals for additional testing.