Drugs and Substances for Ontario NDs

In July 2015, Ontario’s Naturopathic Doctors were formally granted the right to use drugs and substances as a part of naturopathic practice. However, the access granted was not universal and has created confusion on the part of both NDs and patients in Ontario.

For example, how can a vitamin, such as Vitamin A or D, suddenly become a drug and have to be handled differently? Why is something as simple as saline solution considered a drug in some instances?

The world of drugs and substances for Ontario’s NDs is anything but easy. Understanding which drugs can be prescribed, dispensed, compounded and sold, and any limitations on their use is critical to providing safe, competent care. Understanding which substances can be administered by inhalation, injection and intravenous infusion therapy, the conditions on being able to use these in practice and any limitations on their use can have a significant impact not only on patient care but also proper naturopathic practice.

This session will help you navigate the system of drugs and identify which drugs can be used by Ontario’s NDs.  In this session you will learn:

  • How to determine whether something is a drug in Ontario.
  • The differences between the use of drugs and substances.
  • How to know whether an ND can use a specific drug or substance.
  • Understanding the standards of practice in Ontario and how they impact naturopathic care.

Session Details

Date: Monday May 13, 2024
Time: 11:30 a.m. – 12:30 p.m.
CEs: 1 Category A (Jurisprudence)
Format: Live Webinar
Cost:  Free
Advance Registration: Closed

Presenters

Andrew Parr, CEO

Andrew Parr is the Chief Executive Officer (CEO) of the College of Naturopaths of Ontario, the regulatory authority governing naturopathic doctors in Ontario. He was first appointed to the College during its formative stages in August 2010 and, upon proclamation of the Naturopathy Act, 2007 in July 2015 was formally re-appointed by the new Council.

Prior to joining the College, Andrew had been working in the not-for-profit sector for 20 years including eight of which he served as the Executive Director and CEO of the association for registered massage therapists in Ontario.  Andrew has also served as the Executive Director of the Canadian Society of Association Executives-Trillium Chapter for ten years through a successful association management firm he had established.

Andrew has a Bachelor of Arts (Honours) degree in politics from Brock University in St. Catharines, Ontario and has attained his Certified Association Executive (CAE) designation from the Canadian Society of Association Executives.

Outside of work, Andrew enjoys spending time at the lake with his husband of 30 years and his delightful pups, Chandler and Gunther.

Jeremy Quesnelle, Deputy CEO

Jeremy Quesnelle is the Deputy CEO of the College of Naturopaths of Ontario. Jeremy began his work with the College in 2011, 4 years prior to the proclamation of the Naturopathy Act, 2007. During that time Jeremy’s focus was on regulation, standards, policy and program development in the areas of Quality Assurance, Complaint, Discipline, Inspections, Patient Relations and Controlled Acts. Since proclamation of the Naturopathy Act, 2007 in 2015 Jeremy has overseen the College’s professional practice and professional conduct departments as well as supporting the CEO in the day to day operations and governance of the College.

Jeremy has a Bachelor of Arts degree in Archaeology and Classical Studies from Wilfrid Laurier University, in Waterloo Ontario.  When not working Jeremy can be found cooking, practicing jiu jitsu or chasing around his two young sons.

About the Regulatory Education Program

The Regulatory Education Program provides Registrants as well as members of the public access to free virtual educational programming that is focused directly on key regulatory concepts and rules. It is intended to allow Registrants and the public to learn more about the regulatory framework which governs NDs in Ontario and to help NDs not only comply, but to avoid potential issues that present a risk of harm to the public.

Unable to Attend?

All Regulatory Education Program events will be made available for streaming within 30 days of the event delivery. Check the College’s website for more details.