NATUROPATHIC CANCER CARE
Comprehensive Natural Cancer Support
Just hearing the word cancer can be a frightening experience. When you are fighting your battle against cancer, you want doctors on your side who are knowledgeable, practical and proactive, and who also take into account the whole person.
At Paracelsus Natural Family Health Center, we provide comprehensive naturopathic support for patients at all stages of cancer care. Our approach integrates with conventional cancer treatments to help reduce side effects, support your body’s natural healing processes, and improve quality of life during and after treatment.
You do not have to handle this diagnosis alone. At Paracelsus, we work with you to provide a customized plan tailored to your specific needs.
Dr. Simon Barker specializes in naturopathic cancer care and has extensive experience working alongside conventional cancer treatments to provide truly integrative care. As a member of the Oncology Association of Naturopathic Physicians, he stays current with the latest research in natural cancer support.
Our Natural Therapies for Cancer Support
At Paracelsus, we use research-based natural therapies to:
- Actively fight cancer
- Prevent development of cancer in people at high risk
- Prevent recurrence after successful cancer treatment
- Increase effectiveness and decrease side-effects of chemotherapy/radiation therapy
- Decrease risk of metastatic spread during biopsy or surgery
- Speed recovery from surgery
- Enhance cancer-fighting parts of the immune system
- Detoxify heavy metals and other toxins associated with cancer development
Assessment and Treatment Options
Our comprehensive cancer support may include:
- Testing to monitor your disease and immune system
- Anti-cancer diet guidelines specific to your situation
- Detoxification protocols
- Vitamins, minerals, enzymes and probiotics
- Anti-cancer herbs and medicinal mushrooms
- Mistletoe therapy
- Exercise, stress management and lifestyle recommendations
Dealing With Side Effects of Chemotherapy
While chemotherapy is effective in treating cancer, it comes with a host of negative side effects, including nausea, fatigue, loss of appetite, pain, impaired immune function, and even memory changes. These side effects can add additional stress and inhibit your recovery.
Natural remedies can help combat these negative side effects:
- Specific herbs and minerals, as well as probiotics, may help ameliorate chemotherapy side effects
- Mistletoe therapy is an effective way to boost the immune system during treatments
- Dietary modifications and supplements can prevent or treat symptoms like mouth sores, peripheral neuropathy and fatigue
- Customized supplement protocols to support your body during treatment
If you or someone you love has been diagnosed with cancer, the doctors at Paracelsus can help support you as you navigate all your treatment options.
How We Support Cancer Patients
During Active Treatment
- Enhancing conventional treatment effects
- Reducing treatment side effects
- Supporting normal cell function
- Maintaining energy and strength
- Preventing nutritional deficiencies
- Managing stress and emotional wellbeing
After Conventional Treatment
- Supporting recovery and healing
- Rebuilding immune function
- Addressing lingering side effects
- Developing survivorship strategies
- Prevention-focused wellness plans
Appointments & Payment Information
Visit Costs
- Initial Consultation: $390 for a one-hour comprehensive visit
- Follow-Up Visits: $195 for a half-hour appointment
- Longer follow-up appointments can be arranged at hourly rates
- You will never be charged extra without prior discussion
Additional Costs
- Lab tests may be covered by your insurance or available at negotiated rates ($50-$250)
- Supplements typically cost $10-$40 for a month’s supply
Appointment Policies
- A credit card is required to reserve your appointment time
- 48-hour cancellation notice is required
- Full cost of visit for no shows, half the cost of the visit for late cancellations
- Supplements typically cost $10-$40 for a month’s supply
Payment Options
- Payment is expected at the time of service
- We accept cash, personal checks, debit cards, Visa, MasterCard, and Discover
- Virtual appointments are available
Insurance
- We do not directly bill insurance companies
- If you have a PPO, your visits may be eligible for reimbursement at out-of-network provider rates
- We provide detailed medical receipts for you to submit to your insurance company
- Health Savings Accounts (HSA) and Flexible Spending Accounts (FSA) may be used for visits and supplements
- We recommend checking with your insurance company regarding coverage details
Frequently Asked Questions
Is naturopathic care safe during conventional cancer treatment?
Yes, when properly managed by a trained naturopathic doctor experienced in oncology. Our approach is designed to work alongside conventional treatments, not replace them. We carefully assess all supplements and therapies for potential interactions with your medications. We can work with your oncology team as needed.
Will natural treatments interfere with my chemotherapy or radiation?
We specifically design your protocol to avoid any negative interactions. Some natural therapies can actually enhance the effectiveness of conventional treatments while reducing side effects, but timing and selection are critical. We work closely with your oncology team.
Does insurance cover naturopathic cancer support?
Some insurance plans cover our services. We can verify your benefits prior to treatment. Many patients also use HSA or FSA accounts to cover naturopathic care.
When should I start naturopathic care in my cancer journey?
Ideally, we recommend beginning naturopathic support as soon as possible after diagnosis to help prepare your body for treatment. However, we can provide beneficial support at any stage – during active treatment, recovery, or survivorship.
What should I bring to my first appointment?
Please bring your medical records, including pathology reports, treatment plans, and recent lab work. Also bring a list of all medications and supplements you’re currently taking.