Frequently Asked Questions
Are treatments at Brio Integrative Health Centre Effective?
Treatments are conducted in a strategic order: an introduction, a correction, and the goal of resolution. This process eliminates the guesswork involved in health issues, and in turn eliminates self-prescribing with natural supplements/vitamins or over the counter medications. Our treatment plans are streamlined, and often save the patient from unnecessary spending. Your health is an investment with incredible rewards and returns.
Note: Please check with your extended health care provider, as a portion of your treatments may be covered.
What can I expect during my first Brio Centre Visit?
Initial Naturopathic Visits are generally one hour in length. This time includes a review of your pre-completed intake form, a face-to-face visit with your practitioner, a thorough recording of your health history, and any relevant physical exams and/or lab tests. Our program philosophy and strategy will be clarified, and a treatment strategy will be provided. A return visit is scheduled for a time appropriate for each individual patient.
Are infants and Children treated at Brio Centre?
People of all ages benefit from treatment at Brio Centre. We provide support for pregnant women, and also address new born and toddler issues such as fevers, common colds, food sensitivities, and proper dietary needs for children. We also address food introduction schedules, explain how to properly develop your child's immune system, and discuss concerns about vaccination.
If I am taking prescription Medications can I take natural remedies?
It is import to provide a detailed list of medications you are taking and their dosages for your practitioner prior to your first visit. Your practitioner will then be able to provide remedies that are safe when taken in combination with prescription medications. Please note that practitioners at Brio Centre are not permitted to change medical prescriptions. Contact your medical doctor for dosage or prescription changes.
Are practitioners at Brio Centre able to perform laboratory testing?
Yes, Brio Centre offers routine lab tests. Blood tests are performed externally. Should you have current lab work with your medical doctor, Brio Centre can have these lab tests sent over. If you have current blood work results in your personal files, please bring them with you on your initial visit. Brio centre also performs specialized testing including: food sensitivity testing, adrenal stress index, hair/mineral analysis, in-house body fat testing, and acupuncture meridian scans.
What is our main goal at Brio Centre?
Naturopathic Medicine can be just as suppressive as conventional medicine if the root cause of illness is not addressed. For example, taking St. Johns Wort for depression is likely no different than taking a prescription medication for depression. At Brio, we still prescribe supplements with the aim of simply managing symptoms. But we do so while simultaneously pursuing our main goal: to determine and correct the true cause of the body's symptoms and imbalances.
What type of conditions and illnesses do Naturopathic Physicians at Brio Centre treat?
We treat all types of conditions and illnesses, including those that are chronic and/or acute. Virtually every person will benefit from Naturopathic treatment.
Are Naturopathic Doctors licensed as doctors?
Yes. Naturopathic Physicians have been registered in BC under health legislation since 1921, and became a self-regulating health profession in 1936.
Is Naturopathic Medicine covered under Medical Service Plan (MSP)?
No. Brio Integrative Health Centre is billed privately; however, please check your extended health care provider for Naturopathic Medicine and/or Acupuncture coverage.
Do Naturopathic Doctors work with Conventional Care Practitioners such as medical doctors, physiotherapists, psychologists, chiropractors,etc.?
Yes, treatment plans involving a team of health care practitioners are often the most successful. Our goal is to ensure that each of our patients experience the highest possible quality of health care.
What type of training do Naturopathic Doctors receive?
NDs in BC receive a minimum of three years pre-medical training at university, and then complete four years of graduate training at an accredited naturopathic medical school.
What type of conditions and illnesses does a naturopathic physician treat?
All kinds of conditions and illnesses are treated by Naturopathic Doctors, including acute and chronic conditions. Medical emergencies are referred to the local hospital.
How is naturopathic medicine regulated?
Naturopathic Doctors in BC are regulated by the College of Naturopathic Physicians of BC (CNPBC). In order to practice in BC, graduates must successfully complete two sets of standardized board exams across North America and a set of Provincial exams.
What are the six principles of Naturopathic Philosophy?
- The healing power of nature
- Treat the whole person
- First do no harm
- Identify and treat the cause
- Prevention is the best cure
- Doctor as teacher
