Patients are entitled to access naturopathic care that respects their needs, values, and dignity. The College’s Code of Ethics reaffirms the duty of NDs to provide non-discriminatory care, regardless of race, ancestry, place of origin, color, ethnic origin, citizenship, creed, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, gender expression, age, marital status, family status, or disability.
Given the diverse backgrounds of patients, the principles of equity, diversity, and belonging are essential for NDs to provide equitable care that acknowledges the varied beliefs, experiences, backgrounds, and capabilities of patients. NDs should strive to recognize the uniqueness of each patient and accommodate their specific needs. NDs must also be willing to adjust their care based on how socio-cultural factors such as ancestry, color, race, and citizenship intersect with other identities to create unique needs.
The principles of equity, diversity, inclusion and belonging (EDIB) as espoused in the
Council statement on EDIB and
EDIB policy highlight the College’s commitment to EDIB in naturopathic care. These principles are essential cornerstones for providing equitable, comprehensive and compassionate care especially in the naturopathic healthcare field.
Equity in naturopathic care ensures that all patients, receive high-quality care regardless of their background. It helps address certain barriers to care and creates a fair system for optimal health outcomes. Recognizing and valuing each patient’s unique characteristics, perspectives and experiences, allows NDs to tailor treatments, leading to more effective and personalized care.
A strong, professional patient-healthcare provider relationship and an inclusive, respectful environment are also crucial for effective care. When NDs make strong efforts to understand and address the needs of their patients, especially those who identify themselves as from marginalized and underrepresented groups, patients feel seen and heard and feel a sense of belonging leading to better health outcomes. A sense of belonging also helps to promote mental and emotional well-being which are key components of naturopathic care.
NDs must also beware of their own unconscious biases as they can harm ND-patient interactions and positive health outcomes. Patients may often sense this bias, leading to a negative experience and reduced engagement in their care. Addressing implicit or unconscious bias is crucial for improving patient experiences and outcomes and providing equitable care.
Implementing equitable practices and incorporating EDIB (Equity, Diversity, Inclusion, and Belonging) principles in naturopathic care is a professional responsibility that requires ongoing commitment to continuous learning, reflection, and improvement.
This self-assessment serves as a reminder of the importance of integrating EDIB into practice by offering points for consideration, aiming to prioritize EDIB, ensure its consistent application in all professional activities, and encouraging a constructive dialogue within your practice
Here are some questions and scenarios designed to help you identify ways you may consider incorporating EDIB into your practice and enhance your current initiatives and actions.
This self-assessment is intended solely for consideration and to foster conversation around EDIB. No specific actions are required; it is designed to facilitate reflection and discussion.