Are naturopathic doctors evidence-based?

Evidence-based medicine (EBM) uses the best evidence currently available, such as: meta-analyses, systematic reviews, and the clinician experience, to make an informed decision for patient care. EBM is effective within its parameters, but we have to remember that clinical studies are designed in very specific circumstances with even more specific clinical criteria in mind. Not every patient  falls under these precise conditions, and different patients may have  values that affect their individual healthcare needs.

If you’ve been searching for naturopathic services, you’ve probably come across some opinions from medical professionals who claim that naturopathic doctors are not ‘evidence-based’ and therefore practice witchcraft/pseudoscience. In fact, if you search Naturopathy on Wikipedia, you will find it tells you exactly that. Not only is this completely untrue (and several of my colleagues have spent hours trying to encourage Wikipedia to change this- and they refuse), but there is also more to the story. This is where evidence-informed practices come in.

Evidence-informed medicine (EIM) uses the current best evidence, but also takes into account the patients’ circumstances, values, and available resources. This makes care more patient-focused, meaning we take into account a person’s specific circumstances in addition to a wider range of evidence including: meta analysis, systematic reviews, randomized controlled trials, case reports, professional opinion, and scientific principles.


In summary, naturopathic doctors (and myself, as an Intern at CCNM), use both EBM and EIM. This means that after your visit is over, we are digging through the research, and using the best-practices to determine your diagnosis and a suitable treatment plan. We will also take into account your personal values, your ability to complete the treatment plan, and your specific health needs. We work together with your MD to determine when/if medication is the best option for you, and what/if supplements/lifestyle changes will be the most efficacious and safe. This process creates trust in the doctor/intern-patient relationship, so you feel confident in your treatment plan and we can work together to achieve your health goals.


Interested in reading more about EBM vs EIM? Check out this link! https://www.woundscanada.ca/docman/public/wound-care-canada-magazine/2014-vol-12-no-1/510-wcc-spring-2014-v12n1-research-101/file 
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In good health,
Adrienne