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Unfortunately all professions in healthcare (and otherwise) have individuals who veer dangerously off the path of good judgement. I am truly sorry that your mother was a victim of this. I could list many examples of other healthcare providers who have made even fatal errors, but would not limit these mistakes to any one profession (ie the surgeon who removed the wrong cancer-ridden lung). On the other hand, I can recount twice as many happy patients who couldn't imagine life without their chiropractor (insert any profession here). One of my patients who had chronic low back pain without the option of pain medication or surgery would not be able to walk or interact with her family without her adjustments.

As far as those who "do not see the empirical evidence" in the professions listed, I can only speak for my own. There are too many references to list in terms of research into naturopathic therapies ranging from herbal medicine to specific nutrients, physical medicine, dietary options and even adjunctive cancer treament. 

My point in the original post, was that people need options. If we already have an exhausted, overburdened and shrinking allopathic medical community (especially primary care physicians), it is time to consider opening the playing field to others who are qualified. I see a very clear way that naturopathic physicians can offset this problem.

posted 3 years, 10 months ago
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As a naturopathic doctor and primary care physician, I focus every day on the foundations of health. As many comments have noted, we need more of a focus on these foundations or lifestyle factors such as diet, exercise and nutrition. My training as naturopathic doctor gives me such a wonderful background and set of therapeutic tools to address prevention and health. Prevention isn't just about checking blood sugar levels every year to see if you are on their way to becoming diabetic. Prevention is about learning how to structure your life around stabilizing blood sugar in the first place with exercise, a balanced diet, adequate/quality sleep, and when needed some herbs or medications to help your body find homeostasis. Naturopathic doctors have the time and the training to focus on prevention in this way. We also know when it is time to use good quality herbs as well as when we move on to using medications.

When I do have the opportunity to work with other MDs, NDs, RNs etc, our patients thrive. Patients are able to find natural ways to treat many of their health issues with a naturopath, yet still go see their surgeon or dermatologist when needed. Why not capitalize on this type of relationship?

Healthcare should encompass as many avenues as possible toward wellness including massage therapy, acupuncture, chiropractic care and naturopathic medicine. Don't just make these options an afterthought for when medications and surgery aren't working. It is more cost-effective to utilize these professions before jumping into surgery or lifelong medications, which often will not be needed.  If you have an issue or doubt about these types of care, ask me about my patients. Look into my education. Attend one of my anatomy classes. Ask your friends who have seen other healthcare professionals. Become a patient yourself. It is time for us to be open-minded and holistic-minded if we want health care in this country to help people and be cost-effective.

posted 3 years, 10 months ago
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