Drugs and Substances for Ontario NDs
In July 2015, Ontario’s naturopathic doctors (NDs) 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 of the Regulatory Education Program (REP) helped participants navigate Ontario’s system governing drugs and substances. Attendees learned how to determine whether a substance was classified as a drug in Ontario, the distinctions between drugs and other substances, and how to assess whether a naturopathic doctor was permitted to use a specific drug or substance. The session also provided insights into how Ontario’s Standards of Practice shaped the responsible and ethical use of drugs and substances in naturopathic care.
Missed the event?
Click here to register for the recording
PRESENTERS
Andrew Parr
CEO, College of Naturopaths of Ontario
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, Regulation
Jeremy Quesnelle is the Deputy CEO, Regulation at 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.