How Are Naturopathic Doctors Different From Medical Doctors?
One aspect that distinguishes Naturopathic Medicine from conventional medicine is the time spent during an initial office visit. Naturopathic Doctors believe illness is more than it's presenting symptoms, and allow an hour or more for every first office visit to completely understand the background and influencing factors of the individual. Naturopathic Doctors are on a continuum of intervention, and try to use the least invasive methods of treatment possible. For example, Naturopathic Doctors work with a patient to increase health through nutrition and lifestyle changes before using prescription medications. Naturopathic Doctors use laboratory testing and physical evaluation for assessment, similar to medical doctors.

How Are Naturopathic Doctors Licensed?
All eligible candidates must pass a national board examination of North American Board of Naturopathic Examiners (NABE), in order to qualify for licensure. Once licensed, a Naturopathic Doctor may apply for licensure as a primary care practitioner at the state level.

Can A Naturopathic Doctor Prescribe Medication?
In the state of California, Naturopathic Doctors can currently prescribe epinephrine, hormones, birth contraception, professional grade nutritional and botanical supplements, and homeopathic remedies. Dr. Foster has her DEA license, thus she has expanded prescription privileges.

Can A Naturopathic Doctor Take Me Off My Current Prescription Medications?
Often the answer is yes. Although Naturopathic Doctors cannot take people off of prescriptions they did not write, patients typically begin to feel better on a naturopathic protocol and may ask their prescribing physician to reduce the dosage of a particular medicine. This is a gradual process and must be done with care on an individual basis. Dr. Foster works closely with the prescribing doctor for such a request.

What Is The Difference Between A Homeopath And A Naturopathic Doctor?
A homeopath is a healthcare provider who is trained in the medicine of homeopathy, but did not attend a Naturopathic Medical School. Homeopathy is a modality within Naturopathic Medicine, but Naturopathic Doctors are also trained in the areas of basic medical science, pharmacy, nutrition, botanical and physical medicine, and counseling.