What can I expect during my appointment with a naturopathic doctor?
Your initial visit with one of the providers at Peninsula Natural Health Center will last for approximately one hour. During this time we will explore the details of any concerns, review personal and family health history, develop a list of medicines and supplements currently in use, perform an exam pertinent to any concerns and complaints, and develop a plan. The plan may include diagnostic procedures (analysis of blood or urine, x-rays, ultrasounds, MRIs, etc.) and/or therapies to begin addressing any problems.
What do I need to bring to my first visit to see a naturopath?
Please bring your current list of medication and supplements. Also, bringing your most recent laboratory and or imaging results will allow efficiency during your visit and the prevention of ordering duplicate labs.
How are naturopathic doctors different from medical doctors?
Naturopathic physicians are trained in a distinct form of primary care medicine. Naturopathy emphasizes prevention and supporting the bodies’ inherent self-healing mechanisms through natural therapies. The naturopathic approach is also to examine and treat the whole person rather than a particular system. ”Do no harm” is a primary tenet of naturopathic medicine and the naturopathic therapy of choice is likely to be very safe. Primary therapies for naturopathic physicians include dietary and lifestyle counseling, herbal medicine, physical medicine and homeopathy. When necessary, naturopathic physicians can prescribe most pharmaceutical medications, order imaging and labs.
What conditions do naturopathic doctors treat?
At Peninsula Natural Health Center, our naturopaths are licensed as primary care physicians. The most common ailments they treat include digestive issues, allergies, adrenal fatigue, mood disorders, chronic pain, heart disease, diabetes, hormonal imbalances, respiratory conditions, fertility problems, menopause, musculoskeletal conditions, autoimmune diseases, obesity, fibromyalgia, and chronic fatigue syndrome.
Do naturopathic doctors take insurance?
Yes, naturopathic doctors at Peninsula Natural Health Center are currently contracted with the following Insurance providers:
We accept Premera, Regence, Lifewise, First Choice and Blue Cross Blue Shield.
*Though currently contracted with the above insurance plans, it is important that you make sure your specific plan does provide coverage for naturopathic physicians.
If I do not have health insurance that covers naturopathic physicians, what are the fees for seeing a naturopath?
If you do not have insurance coverage, Peninsula Natural Health Center does offer cash courtesy rates:
First Office Visit $250-310
Return Office Visit $185-230
Acute Office Visit $165
Wellness Exam/Physical $210
B-Shot Injection $30
Pap Exam $200
Nutrition and lifestyle counseling
Depending upon the chief complaint and information gained from a complete review of systems, nutrition and lifestyle counseling is an important piece of the puzzle. It is the partnership between a patient and provider that allows for problem solving specific to each individual. The more tools and knowledge one has, the greater sustainability and success there is long term. Whether it is specific whole foods that benefit particular organs, recipes, and/or herbal formulas/supplements, we want people to gain as much from this partnership as possible and be invested in their own health and well-being. The greater the balance, the more effective all treatments will translate into greater fulfillment and joy in life.
What is the office policy on immunizations?
We honor and respect all parents and caregivers choices in regards to their children and well being. Peninsula Natural Health Center does not require children to be immunized to be patients and the doctors welcome informative conversations that support and assist one’s care decisions for your children. Our practitioners agree with the CDC’s recommendations and invite you to explore the Center for Disease Control website.