Because alternative therapies are outside the norm, they can get a bad rap. But dig a bit deeper, and healing is more organized than some Winnipeggers might think.
This week, Sam looks into the business side of alternative therapies in Winnipeg — do you have to sell your services? Is the guy down the street really a doctor? How much does alternative medicine cost?
While things like crystal bowl and energy healing aren’t lawfully organized in Manitoba, other practices are. The most recent being on Nov. 24, 2015, when the province announced it would grant massage therapists in Manitoba self-regulation under the regulated health professions act.
When it comes to naturopathy, Manitoba is 1 of 5 provinces with a professional regulation board, according to the Canadian Association of Naturopathic Doctors.
Naturopathic doctors also have to abide by The Naturopathic Act in Manitoba.
Although Naturopathic doctors and medical doctors work together in Manitoba, naturopathic practices aren’t covered under Manitoba Health. For patients without additional health insurance, sessions can get a bit pricey.
The resulting dilemma: is it fair to have a health system that’s not entirely available to all Manitobans.