After acquiring the degree of Doctor of Naturopathic Medicine, naturopathic physicians must pass a national and state level board examination in order to become licensed to practice naturopathic medicine. In addition, naturopathic physicians are subject to a review by a state board of examiners.
FAQ
Do I continue to see my M.D. and other health practitioners?
Yes. We encourage you to continue seeing your other healthcare providers, as needed.
We will also coordinate your care with other healthcare practitioners by communicating with them as appropriate. We prefer to work as a team with other practitioners in order to give you the best possible health care.
Do I continue with drugs prescribed by my M.D.?
Yes. You continue to consult with the M.D. who prescribed your medications. However, in many cases, your medications may have to be reduced as a result of our treatments. As you get healthier, your need for prescription drugs may diminish. During your course of treatment in our clinic, we may advise you to check with your M.D. about adjusting the dosage or type of medication.
Do you sell supplements?
Our clinic offers a pharmacy which is available for Dr. Ostroff's patients by prescription only. Please call us a few days before your prescription runs out so that your treatment program is not interrupted.
How do I know that naturopathic medicine works?
Many of the treatments that we use have been researched and validated by conventional scientific methods. There are literally thousands of medical studies that support the efficacy of vitamins, herbs, and natural treatment methods. Some natural medicine methods, like acupuncture and traditional Chinese medicine, are proven by the results they have achieved over hundreds of years.
How long will I need to be treated?
Regaining and maintaining good health is a life-long process. Quite frankly, you can benefit from natural medical care for the rest of your life. If you are healthy, you can do more with your life, and live longer. But if your primary concern is how long it will take to get rid of a specific problem or disease, we will give you our best estimate for length of treatment after we have completed your health assessment.
How much will my treatment cost?
The cost of your treatment depends on two factors. The first factor is the nature and severity of your health challenges, which we identify during your health assessment. The second factor is your level of commitment to removing the causes of your health problems. If you've had a chronic problem for twenty years, it's probably not going to disappear in a matter of weeks. Conceivably, it could take months or years to fully recover from a chronic disease. Full recovery requires that the causes of the condition are corrected or removed. Removing the cause takes longer and is more work than just suppressing your symptoms. Regaining full function and health will likely be more expensive than trying for a "quick fix". We will tell you what it will take for you to reach your personal health goals, and approximately how much it may cost. If you have financial concerns, you have the option of recovering your health in phases. In consultation with you, we will develop a treatment program that is within your budget but still moves you in the direction of your health goals.
What are your fees?
Our clinic fees are based on type of service, nature of visit and the amount of time spent with the Doctor. Payment is required at the time of service. Credit cards are accepted.
What are your office hours?
Monday thru Friday 9:00am-6:00pm
Saturday afternoons; by appointment
What health conditions do you treat?
We see people of all ages, and we treat virtually any acute or chronic problems. For a list of health conditions we treat, go to Conditions We Treat.
What is a naturopathic physician?
Naturopathic physicians are licensed primary care physicians who specialize in natural medicine. We treat disease and restore health by using clinical nutrition, herbal medicine, homeopathy, physical medicine, acupuncture, and lifestyle counseling. Treatments are customized to your specific needs. Naturopathic physicians do everything medical doctors do, except that we don't prescribe most drugs, and don't do most surgeries. We focus on prevention of future health problems in addition to treatment of current conditions. We work with you as a team to create a treatment plan that is both effective and "do-able". Education is a cornerstone of what we do. We take the time to sit with you and explain a disease process or educate you about self-care in relation to your overall health.
What is my relationship with Dr. Ostroff?
Dr. Ostroff is very interested in your progress and the outcome of your treatment. Clear communication between doctor and patient is essential; please feel free to call our clinic if you have any questions. Although naturopathic medicines are natural substances, they may still cause allergic reactions in susceptible individuals. Please notify us immediately if you are experiencing any side effects due to medications.
What is your cancellation policy?
Due to our schedule, we ask for a 24 hour cancellation notice. This allows other patients who need to be seen an opportunity to schedule during that time. It is our policy that if you miss your appointment, or are unable to cancel at least 24 hours in advance, you will be charged for that visit. You may call our office and leave a message after business hours. Mahalo for your confidence in allowing us to serve you. Your referrals are always greatly appreciated. If you have been benefited by our care, please assist us in helping other by referring friends and family.
What training does a naturopathic physician receive?
Naturopathic medical schools are four-year postgraduate schools with admission requirements comparable to those of conventional medical schools. The degree, Doctor of Naturopathic Medicine, requires four years of graduate level study in the medical sciences. These include anatomy, physiology, biochemistry, microbiology, pathology, pharmacology, physical and clinical diagnosis, laboratory diagnosis, immunology, cardiology, radiology, gynecology, dermatology, rheumatology, minor surgery, pediatrics and other clinical sciences. We also receive intensive training in naturopathic therapeutics, which include therapeutic nutrition, botanical medicine, homeopathy, hydrotherapy, naturopathic manipulative therapy and lifestyle counseling. The training also includes over 400 hours of clinical training in outpatient clinics.
Will my treatment be covered by insurance?
Your office visits and some of your laboratory testing may be covered by your insurance. Most vitamins, herbs and ancillary products are not covered. Services provided by acupuncturists are covered by no-fault insurance plans up to 30 visits. Hawaii Workmen's Compensation covers services. Some private insurance companies cover portions of naturopathic medical services, including HMAA, Aetna, Connecticut General, Travelers, Cigna, and Blue Cross-Blue Shield, depending on your individual policy.Coverage may vary according to your specific plan, so ask your agent for current information.
