Frequently Asked Questions

What is Naturopathic Medicine?

Naturopathic medicine is a holistic system of healthcare that focuses on treating the cause of illness. Naturopathic treatment utilizes herbs, homeopathy, nutrition, vitamin and mineral therapy, naturopathic manipulation technique, and counseling in patient care. Naturopathic medicine is the best choice for chronic illness and prevention. For a more detailed explanation on Naturopathic medicine including education and testing, visit Naturopathy Explained.

Is Naturopathic medicine covered by insurance?

Yes. In the state of Vermont all Vermont insurance plans must cover Naturopathic services as of October 1, 2007. I am currently an in-network provider for BCBS of Vermont, Catamount, CIGNA, MVP, and CBA. For all other insurance companies I will provide you with a statement that you may submit to your insurance company for reimbursement. For those not covered by a Vermont plan or without insurance, A Health Savings Account (HSA) offers an alternative approach to pay for Naturopathic services. Speak to your bank, accountant, or HR department about how to set one up.

Are supplements covered by insurance?

Rarely do insurance plans cover the cost of supplements and herbal remedies used in Naturopathic treatment plans. Patients are responsible for covering these costs. However, an HSA provides a pre-tax option for covering these expenses.

What can I expect from my first visit?

Expect to spend about 60 minutes discussing your chief complaint and medical history. I will ask you multiple questions regarding the many components of your health and well-being. At the conclusion of the appointment you will be given a unique treatment protocol. Additional diagnostic labs may be ordered to better assess your condition.  The initial follow-up appointment will be scheduled within 1 month to ensure that the treatment is effectively addressing your concerns and subsequent appointments will be scheduled as needed.

Do I need to make Dr. Renee my PCP?

Dr. Renee is considered a Primary Care Physician (PCP) in Blue Cross Blue Shield of Vermont. You need to select Dr. Renee as your PCP or have your current PCP refer you to my office to ensure that your medical visits with me will be covered. PPO health plans tend to be less restrictive than HMOs and don't usually require referrals. However, check with your plan to make sure.

Dr. Renee is listed as both a Specialist and PCP with MVP. If you have an HMO or managed care plan, you will need to either have a referral from your PCP to Dr. Renee or select her as your PCP with MVP. I suggest calling Dr. Renee at 802-254-4369 to determine what decision is best for you and your unique healthcare needs.

Cigna and CBA do not require that I be listed as your PCP.

Catamount is managed by both BCBS of VT and MVP. In order to ensure that your visits will be covered by insurance, you will need to either select Dr. Renee as your PCP or have a referral from your selected PCP to Dr. Renee.

Do I have to stop seeing my PCP?

You decide who makes up your healthcare team. I work with many patients utilizing a variety of healthcare providers including MDs, DOs, DCs, massage therapists, Acupuncturists, and more. I believe that open and clear communication between the providers on your team is necessary for optimal care. I safely use natural therapies in conjuction with prescription medication, and will also work with you and your physician if you decide to switch soley to natural therapies. Health needs often fall within a spectrum of care, including both NDs and MDs.

If you have an HMO health plan and I am not listed as your PCP you will need a referral from your PCP to receive reimbursement. Depending on your plan I may be in or out of network. Check with the details of your plan for more information.