Maximizing Your Extended Benefits

Most of our patients have chronic health problems that they’ve been suffering with for years–a long and slow process of symptoms showing up, then getting more frequent or becoming more intense.

At some point, their MD has done all the tests and the story usually arrives at one of these endings:

  • “There is nothing that can be done.”
  • “You’re just getting older.”
  • “It’s in your genes.”

Or my personal favourite: “It’s all in your head.”

When patients arrive at StoneTree, however, and discover how chronic and acute problems need a different approach, the story changes. Often, it seems there really are things that can be done.

At this point, it’s not uncommon for patients to say, “Why didn’t I come sooner?”

The Cost Barrier and Maximizing Your Benefits

Of course, one of the reasons that people don’t come sooner is the investment. Naturopathic care is not covered by OHIP. The full hour-long new patient visit is not covered. The lab tests are not covered. The treatments are not covered. And as Canadians, having to pay out of pocket for health care can take some getting used to.

Fortunately, extended health coverage is picking up the alternative and complementary medicine tab more often, and giving their members better and better coverage. Collingwood and area teachers, for example have recently had their coverage for naturopathic edicine increased to $1000 a year per family member.

If you, or a friend or family member is considering visiting a naturopath, starting with the most expensive initial visits at the end of a benefit cycle allows you to maximize coverage to get the best care. 

The first few visits with ND’s are often the most expensive, but after that, treatment intensity normally decreases and becomes much easier to afford. You can get started before the new year, and then your benefits renew, giving you lots of coverage to deal with your treatment plan starting in January without interruption.

To learn more about how naturopathic medicine can help you, call 705-444-5331, or book online at www.stonetreeclinic.com.