In BC, there are currently no provincial subsidies in place for naturopathic medicine. While still limited, there is some MSP coverage for patients on premium assistance plans.

In terms of insurance, certain extended health plans cover visits with a naturopathic doctor (ND); however, this varies between plans. For example, private plans set by your employer may cover a portion of your visit, most often approximately 80%. Prior to making an appointment, please speak with your insurance provider to confirm the extended health care coverage available to you.

Regardless of MSP and insurance, how much does it cost to see a naturopath in BC? Prices vary depending on the length of the appointment and the treatment you’re seeking. To get an estimate of cost, browse some of the treatments Dr. Nagra offers here.

Yes, with the proper education and training, naturopathic doctors in BC can prescribe medication within their scope of practice. To do so, naturopathic doctors must complete a prescriptive authority course, pass the licensing examination, and upkeep their authority through continued education. As a licensed naturopathic doctor with a certification in prescriptive authority, Dr. Nagra is authorized to prescribe medications to his patients.

Dr. Nagra takes a multifaceted approach to naturopathic medicine. While he can perform physical exams, take diagnostic laboratory tests, and prescribe medication, he also provides nutritional guidance to further the health of his patients. With a focus on plant-based nutrition, physical medicine, and chronic disease treatment, Dr. Nagra works to improve his patient’s overall health.

Through an evidence-based approach, Dr Nagra can create an individualized treatment plan based on the patients’ ailments, health goals, and lifestyle. Furthermore, as appointments are often up to an hour long, Dr. Nagra takes the time to thoroughly evaluate an individual’s health concerns.

Appointments with Dr. Nagra tend to be longer than patients are used to as he provides an in-depth evaluation of their symptoms, medical history, and lifestyle. Initial appointments are about an hour long while follow-up appointments vary from fifteen minutes to over an hour depending on the patient’s condition and needs.

Before attending Naturopathic Medical School, naturopathic physicians must meet the pre-requisite requirements at an accredited university over the course of three to four years, similar to pre-medical requirements. In Naturopathic Medical School, NDs learn basic sciences in addition to naturopathic modalities, such as nutrition and physical medicine, throughout their four-year program. In the final two years of this four-year program, NDs see patients at school-operated or affiliated clinics.

To be a trained naturopathic physician in BC, NDs need to graduate from an accredited naturopathic medical school, such as the Boucher Institute of Naturopathic Medicine, pass the North American and BC board exams, and be registered with the College of Naturopathic Physicians of BC.

The practices of naturopathic doctors differ greatly due to the broad scope of naturopathic medicine and the varying areas of focus. Regarding Dr. Nagra’s approach, his treatments are evidence-based and often nutritionally focused to target a variety of health concerns.

No, not all treatments focus on plant-based diets. While Dr. Nagra is well known for his work regarding plant-based nutrition and may make suggestions on diet when indicated and supported by evidence, he uses a range of therapies and treatments for his patients.