FAQ

Q: What is a Naturopathic Physician?

A: Naturopathic physicians combine the wisdom of nature with the rigors of modern science. Steeped in traditional healing methods, principles and practices, naturopathic medicine focuses on holistic, proactive prevention and comprehensive diagnosis and treatment. By using protocols that minimize the risk of harm, naturopathic physicians help facilitate the body’s inherent ability to restore and maintain optimal health. It is the naturopathic physician’s role to identify and remove barriers to good health by helping to create a healing internal and external environment.

Naturopathic physicians work in private practices, hospitals, clinics and community health centers. NDs practice throughout the United States and Canada. Qualified naturopathic physicians undergo rigorous training before they become licensed health-care practitioners.

NDs treat all medical conditions and can provide both individual and family health care. Among the most common ailments they treat are allergies, chronic pain, digestive issues, hormonal imbalances, obesity, respiratory conditions, heart disease, fertility problems, menopause, adrenal fatigue, cancer, fibromyalgia and chronic fatigue syndrome. NDs can perform minor surgeries, such as removing cysts or stitching up superficial wounds (not allowed in unlicensed states). However, they do not practice major surgery. NDs are trained to utilize prescription drugs (not allowed in some states), although the emphasis is on naturopathic medicine.

Q: What is the difference between a Naturopathic physician and a Concierge Naturopathic physician (Dr. Pryce)?

A: Dr. Pryce is a licensed Naturopathic Physician as described above, she practices as a concierge ND. A “Concierge ND” (the term coined by Dr. Pryce) is at your service as an ND for one flat fee. There are no follow up fee’s and you can call, text, or video conference as much as you like within that time frame and without worrying about being on a time schedule. All of your questions and concerns will be addressed. Dr. Pryce is committed to taking ONLY 100 new patients per year, so that she can maintain the exquisite high level of personal care shown to each of her patients.

Q: How are ND’s educated?

A: A licensed naturopathic physician (ND) attends a four-year, graduate-level naturopathic medical school and is educated in all of the same basic sciences as an MD, but also studies holistic and nontoxic approaches to therapy with a strong emphasis on disease prevention and optimizing wellness. In addition to a standard medical curriculum, the naturopathic physician is required to complete four years of training in clinical nutrition, acupuncture, homeopathic medicine, botanical medicine, psychology, and counseling (to encourage people to make lifestyle changes in support of their personal health). A naturopathic physician takes rigorous professional board exams so that he or she may be licensed by a state or jurisdiction as a primary care general practice physician. Please see the AANMC’s Professional Competency Profile for more information.

Additional information on naturopathic schools can be found on the American Association of Naturopathic Medical Colleges Web site.

Q: Can Dr. Pryce be my primary care physician?

A: Yes, according to her training, degree and license… however the state of Michigan does not license ND’s and prevents her from being your ONLY healthcare provider. For this reason we suggest that all patients have a primary care doctor that they visit at least once a year and we are happy to provide a recommendation for you.

Q: Do you take insurance?

A: Unfortunately the answer is no. Michigan is an unlicensed state for Naturopathic Doctors, thus I am unable to submit office bills for reimbursement, but I am happy to provide you with a superbill that includes ICD-9 and CPT codes (used for insurance purposes) and you can submit this for possible reimbursement.

Q: Can you work with my other physicians?

A: Absolutely! Most of the treatments used are safely combined with conventional treatments. Dr Pryce’s training from a four year medical school included education regarding prescription (conventional) medicines and their integration with neutraceuticals (vitamins, minerals and herbs) to create a successful journey to health. Dr Pryce is more than willing to exchange chart notes, emails and calls with your other physicians.