What is a Naturopathic Doctor (ND)?

Naturopathic doctors (NDs) are licensed healthcare practitioners that combine the wisdom of nature with the rigors of modern science. Qualified NDs undergo rigorous training at an accredited, four-year, post-graduate, residential naturopathic medical program.

 

This training consists of comprehensive study of the conventional medical sciences, including anatomy, physiology, pathology, microbiology, immunology, clinical and physical diagnosis, laboratory diagnosis, cardiology, gastroenterology, and gynecology as well as detailed study of a wide variety of natural therapies. (Learn about Dr. Roland's training and clinical experience.)

 

By using protocols that minimize the risk of harm, naturopathic doctors help facilitate the body’s inherent ability to restore and maintain optimal health. It is the naturopathic doctor’s role to identify and remove barriers to good health by helping to create a healing internal and external environment.

NDs treat all medical conditions and can provide both individual and family healthcare via private practices, hospitals, clinics and community health centers throughout the United States and Canada. Naturopathic doctors collaborate with other health practitioners, specialists and your MD to provide you with the most comprehensive care possible.

​

​

What is Naturopathic Medicine?

Naturopathic medicine is a patient-centered model of care that blends the best of modern science and traditional healing wisdom to develop comprehensive treatment plans that not only treat disease, but also allow patients to restore optimal health.  Inciting healing, balance, and wellness are fundamental to the therapeutic relationship in naturopathic medicine.

The foundation of naturopathic medical practice is based on the following principles:

​

1. The Healing Power of Nature 
   Naturopathic medicine recognizes the body's inherent ability to heal itself. NDs identify and remove obstacles to recovery to facilitate this healing ability in patients.
    

2. Identify and Treat the Causes
   The naturopathic doctor seeks to identify and remove the underlying causes of illness, rather than eliminate or merely suppress symptoms.
    

3. First Do No Harm
   Naturopathic medicine follows three principles to avoid harming the patient: Use methods and medicinal substances which minimize the risk of harmful side effects; Avoid, when possible, the harmful suppression of symptoms; Acknowledge and respect the individual's healing process, using the least force necessary to diagnose and treat illness.
    

4. Doctor as Teacher 
   Naturopathic doctors educate the patient and encourage self-responsibility for health. They also acknowledge the therapeutic value inherent in the doctor-patient relationship.
    

5. Treat the Whole Person
   NDs treat each individual by taking into account physical, mental, emotional, genetic, environmental and social factors. Since total health also includes spiritual health, naturopathic physicians encourage individuals to pursue their personal spiritual path.
    

6. Prevention
   Naturopathic doctors emphasize disease prevention, assessment of risk factors and hereditary susceptibility to disease and making appropriate interventions to prevent illness. Naturopathic medicine strives to create a healthy world in which humanity may thrive.
    

7. Wellness
   Wellness follows the establishment and maintenance of optimum health and balance. Wellness is a state of being healthy, characterized by positive emotion, thought and action. Wellness is inherent in everyone, regardless of disease(s). If wellness is recognized and experienced by an individual, it will more quickly heal a given disease than direct treatment of the disease alone.

​

Naturopathic medicine addresses not just your physical health, but also your mental, emotional, and spiritual health. Together we work  to uncover the underlying cause of your symptoms or illness, and remove the obstacles to your healing process with compassion, humor, education, and a number of supportive therapies.

​

​

What should I expect from my visit?

In order to provide truly individualized care, I thoroughly examine all aspects of your current health condition and answer all of your medical questions. The initial assessment includes detailed discussions around your diet, lifestyle, family and personal medical history as well as a physical exam and follow-up lab work. I take the time to discuss all of your options with you so that you understand and participate in developing a plan that will work for you. At the end of each visit you will receive a specialized treatment plan designed to address each of your specific health concerns. 

​

​

Which lab tests do you offer?

I routinely review the digestive health of patients via a variety of tests including stool analysis and food allergy panels, as well as comprehensive hormone testing (blood or urine), toxic load, pap smears, and normal preventative blood work. Together, we will determine which testing will be the most relevant, helpful and cost-effective for your situation.

 

Often, the functional medicine tests are not covered by insurance, although sometimes they are.  Blood work coverage varies widely by insurance plan – please consult with your individual insurance company to learn more about your lab work coverage.  For those without coverage for labs, I offer discounted cash-pay options.

​

Companies we work with frequently include:  DUTCH, Diagnos-Techs, Genova Diagnostics, Vibrant America, Merdian Valley and Doctor's Data. Note: unlike other offices, we do not tack on an up-charge for lab fees. 

​

​

Do you prescribe medications?

In the state of Colorado pharmaceutical prescribing is not in the Naturopathic Doctor’s scope of practice.  However I will collaborate with your primary care provider and/or specialists to help you attain prescription medications when necessary. 

​

​

Do you take insurance?

Currently naturopathic doctors are not in-network providers for insurance companies in Colorado and California.  If you have out-of-network benefits you can pay at time of service and we can provide a superbill for reimbursement purposes.

 

​

Can I use my HSA or FSA?

Yes, if you have healthcare savings account (HSA) or a flexible spending account (FSA) you can use it to pay for services.  We will be glad to provide you with documentation for your expenditures that you can submit to your plan if needed.

​

​

How much do appointments cost?

I offer relaxed 90 minute initial visits for adults and 60 minute initial visits for children to ensure each patient feels informed and supported throughout their journey towards optimal health.

​

• New Patient Well Woman Exam (75 to 90 min) - $350

• New Patient Consultation (60 to 90 min) - $325 

• New Patient Pediatric Consult (60 min) - $225 

• Return Office Visit (15, 30 or 45 min) - $75 to $225

​

I also offer a free 15 minute phone consultation to get to know you, define what I do, and explore how I can help your specific situation. Book your appointment online HERE.

​

 

Do you offer any discounts?

Because we want to ensure you have access to care, we do have a “Pay It Forward” program that provides discounted visits for those who need financial support. This program provides a flat discount of 25% off visits, and it's ongoing as long as you need it. If this applies to your situation, let me know during your first visit.

 

There are a limited number of spots in the program, and it works on the honor system. When your financial situation improves, just let us know so someone else in need can get the assistance. Please keep in mind that this practice is how I support my family, and pay back all those student loans! This discount is available so you can get healthy, and give back to the world. 

​

 

How should I prepare for my first appointment?
 

1. Gather any lab results from the last 2 years if applicable

2. Contact your insurance company and ask about lab coverage (what labs are in-network, what do they cover, does it go to deductible first etc.) and reimbursement for out-of-network services

3. Consider writing a health timeline that details your symptoms, major stressors, and relevant medical history

4. Write a list of any questions or concerns you have to make sure we cover everything

​

 

What is the cancellation policy?
Please let us know two business days in advance when you need to reschedule or cancel an appointment.  If you cancel less than 48 hours in advance of your visit, you will be charged a late cancellation fee.

​