Naturopathic medical practice appreciates that multiple personal choices and systemic factors contribute to a person’s health. While only some of these can be directly addressed clinically, the naturopathic approach brings all into consideration.
Our map in this complex environment is the Naturopathic Therapeutic Order. The focus is conservative, to use the “least force” necessary. We seek to address causal factors, and use the least harmful approaches first. Our development of personalized strategies at Junction Naturopathic Medicine is shaped by this order.
Below is a simple rendering of the formal chart of the Naturopathic Therapeutic Order. This was developed by our colleagues and used in the ND profession to guide medical decision making.
Below is the official and more complicated version. The determinants of health are listed in the bottom tier and include factors like poverty, racism, education and access to nutritious food.