Achieve Health - About Naturopathic Medicine

Conditions treated

Naturopathic medicine is effective in treating a wide variety of health concerns, including asthma and allergy, Irritable Bowel Syndrome, abdominal discomfort, low energy levels, Fibromyalgia, Chronic Fatigue Syndrome, ADHD, hormonal imbalances, sports injuries, psoriasis, eczema and acne.

Medical emergencies are referred to the local hospital. Although diagnoses are a valued component of health care, it is important to remember they are simply terms given to describe the current state of health.

Practitioner Training

To obtain their degree, naturopathic physicians must complete a minimum of three years undergraduate degree, and four years of naturopathic education and clinical residency at a credentialed naturopathic college and clinic. The curriculum includes the same diagnostic and basic science programs taught in mainstream medical institutions, often by the same doctors and professors.

Advantages of naturopathic medicine

The goal of the naturopathic physician is to understand the health needs of the patient, even if this process requires a great deal of time. This careful approach reflects the naturopathic concern with treating the underlying source of illness and the use of treatments which are highly individualized to the patient. Dr. O'Neill teaches patients about health in order that they are able to make effective self-care decisions for future health problems.

Specific techniques

Specific naturopathic services and techniques we use at Achieve Health include the following:

Clinical Nutrition
Homeopathy
Herbal Medicine
Craniosacral Therapy
Visceral Manipulation
Professional supplement advice
Traditional Chinese Medicine and Acupuncture
Lifestyle Counseling
Physical Examinations
Laboratory
eg: pap smears, urinalysis, heavy metal testing,
hair analysis, allergy testing and stool analysis

What to expect on your first visit

Your initial naturopathic appointment will include a comprehensive survey of your health history and current health condition. The assessment may involve a physical exam and the use of standard diagnostic instruments and laboratory tests. Dr. O'Neill will work with you to develop a treatment plan aimed at optimizing your health. The initial visit typically takes 45-60 minutes with follow-up appointments lasting approximately 30 minutes.

NOTE: If you're interested in learning more about naturopathic medicine, talk to our receptionist about booking a complimentary 15 minute introduction to naturopathic medicine with Dr. O'Neill.

Frequency of treatment

There is no hard-and-fast rule about how often a patient should visit their naturopathic physician, as every approach is individualized. Typically, follow-up appointments for naturopathic care are scheduled 4 weeks from the initial visit. Some people require very little follow-up and simply return if a new concern arises. Others require a few monthly follow-ups to implement and reassess treatment. It is important to remember that, unlike symptomatic relief, restoring health is a process.

Medical plan coverage of naturopathic care

Those on Medical Savings Plan (MSP) premium assistance may be eligible for limited coverage of naturopathic care. We can use your care card number to check if you are eligible for such coverage.

Many extended health care plans offer coverage for naturopathic care. Coverage varies among providers and plans. It is best to check with your benefits manager.

We accept WCB, ICBC, and DVA coverage.