Exploring the experiences of Indigenous patients accessing naturopathic medicine in Thunder Bay Ontario

Abstract

Health inequities for Indigenous Peoples across Turtle Island have been well documented, but the role of naturopathic doctors in contributing to Indigenous-led health-care initiatives remains understudied. Very little research exists documenting the experiences of Indigenous individuals with naturopathic medicine. This exploratory qualitative research study contributes to addressing this gap by exploring the experiences of twelve Indigenous individuals who have accessed care from licensed naturopathic doctors in Thunder Bay, Ontario. Couched in discussions about the impact of colonization and ongoing colonialism on their health and health care, participants expressed that the philosophy of naturopathic medicine aligns with Indigenous concepts of health and healing being holistic, collaborative, patient-centred and offering natural treatment options. In addition, participants experienced naturopathic doctors as trustworthy well-educated health-care providers who listened. Cultural appropriation and the need for NDs to become more culturally competent as health-care practitioners are also explored. Barriers to accessing naturopathic care included the cost of appointments and prescribed substances, lack of awareness and misconceptions about naturopathic medicine, and geographical limitations. Indigenous patients accessing naturopathic medicine in Thunder Bay articulated that it has a key role to play in the health care they desire for themselves, their families and communities. Future research projects can query whether this finding holds true in other regions, what the experiences are of Indigenous Peoples who have not accessed naturopathic medicine, and can explore the role of naturopathic medicine in Indigenous-led health care.