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| Dr. Nina Paroo NATUROPATHIC PHYSICIAN | ||
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What is naturopathic medicine?
Naturopathic medicine is a distinct system of primary health care - an art, science, philosophy and practice of diagnosing, treating and preventing disease. Naturopathic medicine's techniques include modern, traditional, scientific and empirical methods. Six principles of healing form the foundation for naturopathic medical practice. Naturopathic physicians are general practitioners who are licensed in Washington State. What type of training does a naturopathic physician receive?
Click here to view a comparison of naturopathic and conventional (allopathic) medical education.
What type of conditions can a naturopathic physician treat? In the state of Washington we are licensed as primary care doctors. As general practitioners of natural medicine, naturopathic physicians treat the full spectrum of medical conditions as well as focus on the prevention of disease. Some examples of commonly treated conditions (not an exclusive list): - fatigue - p.m.s - autoimmune disease e.x. lupus, diabetes, thyroid disease - endocrine imbalances e.x. thyroid disease, menstrual irregularities, low adrenal function (adrenal fatigue) - gastrointestinal disorders e.x. IBS, colitis, crohn's disease, food sensitivities, constipation - acute conditions e.x. ear infections, upper respiratory infections, sinus infections, headaches - symptoms associated with menopause - skin conditions e.x. eczema, acne, rosacae - insomnia - mood imbalances e.x. anxiety, depression - neurological conditions e.x. autism, multiple sclerosis, ADHD, ADD - symptoms associated with cancer What is naturopathic medical philosophy? There are six principles of naturopathic philosophy: - Treat the whole person - First do no harm - Identify and treat the cause - The healing power of nature - Doctor as teacher - Prevention is the best cure Click here for a detailed explanation of the six principles of naturopathic philosophy. What is the difference between naturopathy and homeopathy? Homeopathic medicine is one of the therapies that naturopathic doctors may integrate into a total treatment program. Homeopathy was developed in Germany in the 1700s and is based on the principle of simillimum, or "like cures like", using minute amounts of natural substances to stimulate the body's self-healing abilities. Naturopathic doctors are trained in homeopathy as part of their educational program. What can I expect during an initial visit? An initial naturopathic consultation usually lasts one hour, during which a history, pertinent physical exam, and pertinent laboratory testing may be performed. Some natural medicines may be prescribed and a treatment plan will be established. If you have internet access and adobe acrobat, you can download patient health history forms and bring them to your visit. What type of laboratory testing is offered? Depending on your condition, routine lab work (pap smears, chemistry panels) or specific labs (viral panel, STD testing) pertaining to your condition can be ordered. These tests are similar to what you would experience at a traditional (allopathic) medical doctor’s office. In addition, lab tests such as food intolerance testing, Gastro-Intestinal Health Panel or Adrenal Gland Testing may be ordered, to provide more information about how to optimize wellness. Are natural treatments contraindicated with other medical treatments?
Yes and No. Although natural remedies generally have fewer side effects than pharmaceutical medication, there can be interactions between some combinations of supplements and medications. To this end, it is important that all of your treating Practitioners are aware of what you are taking, so that you receive the best quality of care. What about insurance coverage? Dr. Paroo accepts insured patients. We will file an insurance claim on the patient’s behalf. Not all insurance companies cover visits for naturopathic physicians or impose restrictions such as a referral. Being insured is not a guarantee of coverage. Patients are encouraged to check for benefits with their insurance company since plans vary widely. Dr. Paroo is an in-network provider with the following insurance companies:
Aetna
Cigna First Choice Health Network Premera Blue Cross Regence Blue Shield (patients with Regence Selections plan need a referral from PCP) Uniform Health Plans Co-payments are due at time of service. Supplements and certain laboratory tests are not covered by insurance and are payable upon receipt. What methods of payment are accepted? Natural Healthcare Northwest accepts cash, checks, Visa, Mastercard, and American Express. If you have further questions concerning our payment policies, please feel free to call or e-mail the office. |
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If you have any specific questions about naturopathic medicine or wish to determine if it may be appropriate for you please contact our clinic directly at (206) 382-9977 or submit your questions via email to nina@drninaparoo.com
We are committed to helping you make informed decisions about your healthcare. |
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