Frequently Asked Questions – Quick Links:
- What is Naturopathic Medicine?
- Is a Naturopathic Doctor a real, licensed doctor?
- Do I need a referral to see a Naturopathic Doctor?
- Is the Naturopathic Doctor accepting new patients?
- Where are you located?
- Can you direct bill to my extended health insurance?
- How much does my extended health insurance cover?
- Can I claim consultations and services on my taxes?
- What if I’m an Independent Contractor or Self-Employed and don’t have private Extended Health Insurance? Is there any other CRA-approved option I can use for me and my family?
Q: What is Naturopathic Medicine?
A: “In 1936, the Naturopathic Physicians Act became law in B.C. In the Act, “Naturopathy” was defined broadly as “the art to healing by natural methods.” Naturopathy (Naturopathic Medicine) continues today which, may include a variety of safe and effective methods such as; acupuncture, diet and meal planning, lifestyle counselling, laboratory testing, herbal (botanical) medicine, ayurveda, homeopathy, neutraceutical supplementation and pharmaceutical prescriptions from a licensed Naturopathic Doctor.
Q: Is a Naturopathic Doctor a real doctor?
A: Yes. As mentioned above, Naturopathic Medicine, in BC and Alberta, is a licensed and regulated profession. Throughout Canada, the United States, and the rest of the world, Naturopathic Doctors are rightfully gaining regulation.
Q: Do I need a referral to see a Naturopathic Doctor?
A: No, you do not need a referral. You can self-refer.
Q: Is the Naturopathic Doctor accepting new patients?
A: Yes, new patients are booked for virtual (telemedicine) appointments only, at this time. In-person appointments will resume after we finish remodelling our new Medicine Hat clinic and vitamin dispensary. We estimate completion in 2026.
Q: Where are you located?
A: We are working virtually (via tele-medicine) only at this time and will be reopening our new location in Medicine Hat, Alberta in 2026.
Q: Can you bill directly to my extended health insurance?
A: Typically, yes, we can ‘direct bill’ to most insurance companies.
Q: How much does my extended health insurance cover?
A: Your extended health insurance coverage may vary depending on your chosen plan. Most insurances cover 80-100% of naturopathic services up to an annual amount. Your insurance provider or benefits department should be able to tell you specific coverage details. They can inform you how much you and your family members are covered for throughout the year and how much per appointment.
Q: Can I claim Naturopathic Consultations and Services on my taxes?
A: CANADA REVENUE AGENCY (CRA) may allow you to claim Naturopathic Consultations and Services on your taxes although, because there may be changes from one year to the next, it is best to talk with whomever files your taxes or contact the CRA directly for the most up-to-date information.
Q: What if I’m an independent contractor or Self-Employed and don’t have private Extended Health Insurance? Is there any other CRA-approved option to utilise for me and my family?
A: Another option popular with Independent Contractors, Self-Employed and Small Business Owners is a Private Health Services Plan a.k.a. “Health Trust”. “Simply put, a Private Health Services Plan (PHSP) is a legal document attached to a Trust Bank Account. The business benefits by receiving a 100% tax-deduction for claims submitted during the fiscal year and reimbursements is a non-taxable benefit to participants of the plan.” You can review a Tax Deduction Example here and see if this is right for you.
(Disclaimer: This is not an endorsement of this option or any other financial planning method or practice. Neither, Avisio Naturopathic nor Dr. Quach, ND receive any remuneration by sharing this information or if you choose to use any of the above mentioned.)
