What Is Naturopathic Medicine in Edmonton?
Naturopathic medicine is a distinct primary care profession. Naturopathic doctors are trained to assess your health history, perform relevant physical examinations when indicated, and order and interpret laboratory testing. They may also use a range of treatment approaches permitted under their Alberta scope of practice.
Dr. Lena Kim, H.BSc., ND practices alongside our chiropractic team, Dr. Craig Wing and Dr. Kellie Mulkay, at In-Line Family Chiropractic in Edmonton, Alberta.
What Can I See Dr. Kim About?
Dr. Kim commonly works with patients on the following concerns
Digestive Concerns
Hormonal & Menstrual Health
Perimenopause & Menopause
Energy & Fatigue
Metabolic & Blood Sugar Health
Stress, Sleep & Nervous System Health
Inflammation & Immune Health
Musculoskeletal Concerns & Pain
Healthy Aging & Preventative Health
A Whole-Person Approach
Rather than looking at symptoms in isolation, Dr. Kim considers the underlying factors that may be contributing to a patient’s concerns.
This whole-person approach looks at how different aspects of health may be connected, and how they may relate to a patient’s goals.
Factors Considered May Include
- Metabolic and blood sugar health
- Inflammation and immune function
- Digestive and liver health
- Nutrient status
- Cellular energy and oxidative stress
- Nervous system and stress response
- Nutrition, movement, sleep and lifestyle
What Naturopathic Care Involves
Comprehensive Health History & Assessment
A detailed start to understand your health concerns, history, and goals
Relevant Physical Examination
Performed when indicated
Review of Existing Laboratory Results
Your recent results are reviewed first
Laboratory Testing
When clinically appropriate
Individualized Nutrition & Lifestyle Recommendations
Nutritional Supplementation
Patient Education
Discussion of treatment options
Collaboration
With other health care providers when appropriate
Your First Visit & Follow-Ups
Your First Visit
New patient visits are scheduled for up to 55 minutes. Dr. Kim will discuss your current health concerns and goals, and review your medical history, medications and supplements, nutrition, lifestyle, and other factors that may be relevant to your health.
A relevant physical examination may be performed when indicated. Existing laboratory results can be reviewed, and additional laboratory testing may be discussed when clinically appropriate.
Following the assessment, Dr. Kim works with you to develop an individualized health plan based on your concerns, priorities and goals.
If you have recent or relevant laboratory results, imaging reports, or a current list of medications and supplements, please bring them to your appointment when possible.
Returning Patient Visits
Follow-up visits are an opportunity to review your response and progress, and to adjust your health plan as needed.
The plan can evolve based on your response, changing needs and goals.
Good to Know
- New patient and returning patient visits may be offered virtually when appropriate
- Dr. Kim may recommend an in-person visit when a physical examination is needed
What Bowen Therapy Is
Bowen Therapy is a gentle form of hands-on bodywork. It uses light, precise movements over muscles and other soft tissues, with short pauses incorporated throughout the session.
Sessions may last up to 55 minutes, and the frequency of treatment is individualized.
Bowen Therapy
It may be considered by patients seeking a gentle bodywork approach, including those experiencing musculoskeletal discomfort or looking for support with relaxation.
Common Questions About Naturopathic Care
Is naturopathic care covered by Alberta Health Care or private insurance?
Naturopathic services are not covered by Alberta Health Care. Many extended health plans provide naturopathic coverage, and In-Line offers direct billing to major insurance providers. Coverage varies, so please check your individual benefits.
Do I need a referral?
No referral is required. Dr. Kim can also collaborate with other health care professionals involved in a patient’s care when appropriate.
Can I see Dr. Kim virtually?
New patient and returning patient visits may be virtual when appropriate. Dr. Kim may recommend an in-person appointment when a physical examination or other in-person assessment is needed.
Will I need laboratory testing?
Not always. Dr. Kim reviews relevant recent results first. If additional testing may help guide care, she will discuss the options with you. Laboratory testing she orders has an additional cost, which is discussed before testing is arranged.
Can I see Dr. Kim and a chiropractor at In-Line?
Yes. The services can be provided independently or alongside one another. When appropriate, and with the patient’s consent, the chiropractic team and Dr. Kim may communicate about their care to support a coordinated approach.
Regulation
Naturopathic doctors are regulated health professionals in Alberta by the College of Naturopathic Doctors of Alberta (CNDA).
Ready to Book a Naturopathic Visit in Edmonton?
Book your new patient naturopathic assessment with Dr. Lena Kim, H.BSc., ND at In-Line Family Chiropractic today. Initial visits are scheduled for up to 55 minutes, and virtual visits may be available when appropriate. Conveniently located in Edmonton, Alberta, with direct billing available for most insurance plans.
Please Call the Clinic to Book: (780) 455-5212