Frequently Asked Questions
What is Naturopathic Medicine?
Naturopathic medicine intergrates a firm scientific foundation with natural and minimally invasive therapies. This comprehensive approach is tailored to the patient emphasizing prevention and self-care.
Naturopathic physicians collaborate with other branches of medical science referring patients to other practitioners for diagnosis or treatment when appropriate.
Naturopathic physicians are trained in a four year medical program with clinical training. Following completion of medical school, naturopathic physicians must pass the board examination given by the North American Board of Naturopathic Examiners prior to obtaining licensure in the states that offer licensure.
Naturopathic programs are offered at a small number of colleges and universities. Dr. Bove, Dr. Maiella and Dr. Finley attended Bastyr University in Seattle, Washington. Dr. Giamarrino attended the University of Bridgeport. Please see the links below for more information on naturopathic medical practice:
What should I expect at my visit?
Your first visit with a naturopathic physician will be a comprehensive holistic evaluation of your health picture. To begin with, the initial interview takes about 90 minutes. During this time, we try to determine as complete a picture as possible of the characteristics which influence your present condition.
A physical exam may take place during the initial visit or during follow-up visits, as well as laboratory studies or other diagnostic tests to assist us in evaluating your condition. When the picture is complete, we take time to study your case and create a individualized health program with you.
Follow-up visits take 30 to 60 minutes and are used to evaluate current therapy and interpret labs as well as continue treatment in the case of physical medicine or acupuncture. For established clients phone consultations are available if appropriate.
As primary care physicians in Vermont we treat all conditions within a general family medical practice. Patients needing care beyond this are referred to the appropriate health care providers.
