Course Description:

Although naturopathic principles are deeply aligned with those necessary for Planetary Health, clinicians have expressed that emphasizing social and ecological determinants takes away from the management of individual health concerns. However, determinants of health are complexly interwoven. Neglecting concepts of sustainability and planetary well-being in the office disregards the principle of treating the whole. Informed consent requires patients to be aware of the risks, costs, benefits and alternatives of recommended treatments; this should include a consideration of impact on our collective biosphere and society. Many recommendations made in the practice of naturopathic medicine are beneficial for both the planet as well as for individuals. This session will engage participants in a critical reflection of ways in which naturopathic practice promotes or detracts from planetary health. A hierarchy of sustainable therapeutics will be collaboratively generated. Participants will be encouraged to make an actionable pledge to prioritize planetary health in their practices.

Learning Objectives:

1. Identify at least five clinical recommendations that have both planetary and individual benefits
2. Empower participants to consider the impact of clinical recommendations on planetary health
3. Build capacity of participants to translate advocacy for planetary health to clinical recommendations
4. Cultivate an attitude of responsibility among naturopathic doctors to promote and protect planetary health through clinical practice

This session is approved for  1.5 Category A General credits with the College of Naturopaths of Ontario (CONO).  After completing the material, you will automatically receive your CE certificate.