FAQ in Phoenix

What is naturopathic medicine?

Naturopathic medicine is a distinct system of primary health care that blends the art, science, and philosophy of natural healing with modern diagnostic medicine. Naturopathic doctors (NDs) diagnose, treat, and help prevent illness by looking for the underlying cause of symptoms rather than simply covering them up. Learn more on our About Naturopathic Medicine page.

What principles guide naturopathic care?

Our care follows six core naturopathic principles: the healing power of nature (vis medicatrix naturae), identifying and treating the cause (tolle causam), first do no harm (primum non nocere), the doctor as teacher (docere), treating the whole person, and prevention. Together, these principles shape a personalized approach that empowers you to take an active role in your health. You can read more about our approach on the Living Wellness Philosophy page.

How are naturopathic doctors trained and licensed?

Licensed naturopathic doctors graduate from accredited naturopathic medical schools, pass national board examinations, and are regulated by state licensing boards. The profession is supported by national standards of practice, peer review, and ongoing scientific research, and it combines safe, traditional therapies with current advances in modern medicine.

Can a naturopathic doctor be my primary care provider in Arizona?

Yes. The legal scope of naturopathic practice varies from state to state, and NDs in Arizona benefit from a full scope of practice. Our physicians can act as your primary care provider and are very effective at treating and managing common primary care concerns such as colds and flu, high cholesterol, and high blood pressure. See our Scope of Practice for NDs page for details.

Can naturopathic doctors prescribe medications?

Yes. Naturopathic doctors in Arizona can prescribe medications, and NDs who hold a DEA number can prescribe Schedule III, IV, and V controlled substances. Our physicians also use natural therapies such as herbal medicine, homeopathy, and targeted supplements, and they prescribe medications when they are the best option for your care.

What health conditions do you treat?

We care for patients of all ages with a wide range of acute and chronic concerns, including women’s health and menopause, men’s health and andropause, thyroid conditions, digestive disorders, autoimmune conditions, fatigue, and more. Visit our Conditions Treated page for the full list.

What is included in the initial 60-minute consultation?

Your first visit includes a thorough discussion of your main health concerns and symptoms, a comprehensive review of your current and past medical history (surgeries, hospitalizations, medications, and allergies), a review of all organ systems, vital signs, and a screening or comprehensive physical exam based on your symptoms. In-office labs such as a urine test may be performed, and if additional labs are needed, you will receive a lab requisition and instructions. You leave with a customized initial treatment protocol that outlines your treatment approach, recommended labs, lifestyle guidance, supplements, and any prescriptions.

What should I bring to my first appointment?

Please bring any recent lab work, imaging reports, and other pertinent medical records. If older labs are needed, we can request them for you at your visit. Once your appointment is scheduled, your new patient forms will be emailed to you through our online patient portal. Completing them before your visit saves time; if you are unable to complete them in advance, please arrive 30 minutes early. More details are on our New Patients page.

How many visits will I need?

The frequency of office visits depends on your health concerns, your goals, and the program you choose. Your physician will recommend a visit schedule during your initial consultation and adjust it as your health improves.

Do you offer laboratory testing?

Yes. Laboratory testing is at the heart of naturopathic care because it helps uncover the root causes of illness. In addition to conventional blood work, we offer specialty testing such as the adrenal stress panel, food allergy panel, micronutrient panel, digestive function and dysbiosis testing, and the SIBO breath test. An estimate of lab charges is always shared with you before testing.

Do you accept insurance?

No, we do not accept insurance. We are a cash-based, fee-for-service practice. While we are not in network with any insurance plans, you may be able to receive reimbursement directly from your insurance company. Please check with your insurer to see if your plan includes out-of-network benefits. At the end of your visit, you will receive an itemized receipt that you can submit for possible reimbursement.

Do you accept Health Savings Accounts (HSA)?

Yes, we accept HSA payments, and Health Savings Accounts can usually be used for both products and services. Please speak with a staff member if you have questions about what your HSA covers.

What forms of payment do you accept?

We accept cash, check, Visa, MasterCard, American Express, and HSA. Payment is due at the time of service. Laboratory testing and treatments are billed separately, and we will share an estimate of those charges with you before any tests are performed.

What types of consultations are available?

We offer in-person medical consultations at our Phoenix office as well as phone consultations. Phone consultations are charged the same as in-person visits.

How do I schedule an appointment?

To schedule an initial consultation or a follow-up, call our front desk at (480) 588-6856. Online scheduling is available for current patients only, and our front desk can give you instructions for scheduling through the online patient portal.

Do you offer walk-in appointments?

Visits are by appointment only. However, we have several physicians on staff, so please call, as we often have same-day availability.

What is your cancellation policy?

You are responsible for keeping your appointment or notifying us at least 48 business hours before the scheduled time. If you do not keep your appointment without giving the appropriate notice, a $50.00 cancellation fee will be charged.

Where are you located and what are your office hours?

Living Wellness Medical Center is located at 4440 North 36th St. #110, Phoenix, AZ 85018. Our office is open Monday through Thursday from 9am to 5pm and Friday from 9am to 2pm. You can call us at (480) 588-6856 or email FrontDesk@LivingWellnessMedicalCenter.com. If you leave a message, we are committed to returning your call within the next business day. Directions are available on our Contact page.

Can I contact my physician between appointments?

If you have non-urgent questions between appointments, please write them down and bring them to your next visit so you receive your physician’s undivided attention. For urgent questions, call the office and a staff member will make sure your question is answered as soon as possible, or you can book a same-day phone consultation with a doctor. For your privacy, please do not include confidential health information in emails. If you are experiencing a medical emergency, go to the nearest emergency room immediately.

How do I get a medication refill?

The most efficient way to get a refill is to ask your pharmacy to fax us a refill request when you pick up your last refill. If you are completely out of a medication, call the office right away and we will help you get it refilled as quickly as possible. We request 48 business hours’ notice on all refills, and it is best to avoid requesting refills at the end of the day on Friday.