Article by Dr. Kelly Robertson
The residents of British Columbia, and especially those living on Vancouver Island, are feeling the effects of limited access to general practitioners.
Currently, one in five people in British Columbia do not have access to a general healthcare practitioner1. Although there is no easy way to solve this healthcare crisis, could the support of a Naturopathic Physician increase access to medical care and decrease the burden on a general practitioner?
A Naturopathic Doctor (ND) has the unique ability to provide another stream of primary care for residents of British Columbia. In British Columbia, ND’s have a scope of practice that allows for management of a wide array of medical ailments. This includes the ability to perform physical exams, order a variety of laboratory tests and imaging, and prescribe necessary prescription medications2.
Chronic Illness Management:
Naturopathic medical care is complementary to the current medical system in British Columbia. Accessible medical care is critical, and knowing the role a Naturopathic Doctor can play in the healthcare system is highly valuable.
*For any emergency or critical medical care, immediately seek emergency medical attention*
2. https://cnpbc.bc.ca/for-registrants/resources/standards-practice/
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