Victoria, Nanaimo, Ladysmith
British Columbia
Canada
Registered Acupuncturist
Frequently Asked Questions
~ Answered ~
What is Naturopathic Medicine ?
Naturopathic Medicine is a primary health care system that integrates modern science with traditional, natural medical practices. The principal objective is to treat the underlying root cause of disease and to promote health and vitality as a preventative, life-long goal. It is also a way to treat common health concerns in a gentle, natural manner.
How many follow up visits are usually required?
The number and frequency of follow up visits depends on the individual patient case, however most patients are asked to come back within 2-3 weeks for a first follow up in order to assess progress and make any changes if necessary. A second follow up visit may then be done 4-6 weeks after this. In some cases, patients may choose to see Dr Katarine more regularly if complex nutritional coaching, IV therapies or counseling make up part of the plan however all options will be discussed with you (the patient) so that you can decided together what the best approach is depending on your individual needs.
What can I expect in my first consultation?
The initial consultation is approximately 60-minutes. An in-depth medical intake including review of health concerns, symptoms, dietary and lifestyle habits. It is recommended that you bring a copy of any blood work or lab results you may have. They may also be faxed directly to Dr Katarines clinic.
It is also recommended that you bring a list of all your supplements and medications with exact dosages listed. Treatment is usually started on the first visit and may include dietary modifications, lifestyle modifications, herbal medicine and vitamin/mineral therapies.
Does Dr Katarine offer IV or Injection therapies?
Yes, Dr Katarine does offer IV and IM injections. These may be done during an appointment or booked separately (following initial appointments). All vitamin therapy is highly individualized, so you'll be getting the specific vitamins in the correct volumes to optimize your body's requirements.
I'm interested in testing. Does Dr Katarine do any lab testing, how does that work and what does it cost ?
There are a variety of testing options available from Dr Katarine - and if she doesn't have the specific thing you're looking for she is more than happy to look into getting it in for you. Examples of the testing options are on the "Services and Offerings" page. All testing from Naturopathic Physicians is private pay, though many extended health plans will cover some or all of the cost. The cost for lab work must be paid at the time the sample is taken or requisition provided. If you have any specific questions please don't hesitate to ask!
Is Naturopathic Medicine covered on my extended health insurance/ benefits plan ?
There are a variety of extended health/ insurance plans available via MSP, Greenshield, Blue Cross, Great West Life, Sun Life Financial, Manulife Insurance and more. Naturopathic Medicine is covered by most of these plans. Some of these plans have a maximum number of treatments per year, others have a maximum dollar amount per year. You should check with your provider to confirm your coverage.
I have a complicated or personal health question. Can I speak directly with Dr. Katarine over the phone ?
Yes, you can speak in confidence with Dr Holewa over the phone (however specific treatment advice is not offered by phone or email). Whether you have a personal health concern or a question that hasn't been answered on this website. You can call either clinic (see the contact page for phone numbers) and leave a message with your contact information and she will return your call or email as soon as she can (usually within 2-3 business days).
Does Dr Katarine use a lot of supplements?
Herbal preparations, vitamin and mineral supplements may be recommended but are not the primary source of treatment. Dr. Katarine also uses clinical nutrition, IV therapies, injection therapies, acupuncture, lifestyle modifications and other therapies for long term results. You and Dr Katarine will discuss all treatment options to come up with the best approach for your individual needs including supplementation or alternatives to supplements if appropriate.
What other testing does/can Dr Holewa do?
There is a wide range of testing available. Some examples include salivary hormones (estrogen, progesterone, testosterone, etc), salivary cortisol levels (a key stress hormone), vitamin/mineral balance, toxic elements, candida, celiac, etc. The necessity and value of any particular test for your case will be discussed during your appointment, and if you have a specific test you are interested in that isn't listed anywhere here, please don't hesitate to call the clinic to inquire about it.
Can Dr Holewa prescribe medications and Bio-Identical Hormones?
Yes, Dr Holewa does have prescriptive rights for the majority of pharmaceuticals as well as Bio-Identical Hormone therapy.
I see that Dr Katarine is an ND and an RAc. What does that mean?
Dr Katarine is both a licensed Naturopathic Physician as well as a Registered Acupuncturist. Holding both designations means that she has completed a full 4 years Naturopathic education as well as a full 3 years training as an Acupuncturist.
What it means for you is that if you have extended health coverage for both ND and RAc, you can make use of both of these amounts for your appointments with her.