Lab testing · Ottawa and virtual across Ontario
Lab testing with a naturopathic doctor in Ottawa
Sometimes a test is the clearest way to see what’s going on. We order bloodwork through Dynacare and LifeLabs, and specialized stool, urine and saliva tests through a partner lab that mails a kit to your home.
We only suggest a test when the result would change your plan, and you hear the cost before anything is ordered.
Tests are ordered by your naturopathic doctor · Lab fees are paid separately from your visit
When a test can help
- Your bloodwork came back “normal,” but you still don't feel well and some useful markers were never checked.
- Digestive symptoms haven't settled with the first changes we tried.
- Your cycle or perimenopause symptoms are changing and hormone patterns would guide the next step.
- We want to follow something over time, like blood sugar, iron or vitamin D.
- We want to check safety before or during a supplement or herbal plan.
Testing isn’t always needed. Plenty of good plans start from your history and the bloodwork you already have, so bring it along.
What we can order
Types of tests
Bloodwork
Thyroid, iron and ferritin, B12, vitamin D, blood sugar and A1c, insulin, cholesterol and sex hormones, among others.
Dynacare or LifeLabs. Your requisition appears in your patient portal and you go to any of their collection sites.
Stool testing
A detailed look at digestion, inflammation markers and the balance of gut bacteria, for ongoing bloating, IBS or bowel changes.
At-home kit mailed to you by our partner lab.
Hormone testing
Urine or saliva tests that show patterns of cortisol and sex hormones across a day or a cycle, rather than a single moment.
At-home kit mailed to you by our partner lab.
Food sensitivity testing
A blood test some people choose when a full elimination diet isn’t realistic. We talk through what it can and can’t tell you before you decide.
Ordered through our partner lab.
After the test
Your results, explained
A lab report is only useful if someone takes the time to go through it with you. Results are filed in your chart and we let you know when they’ve arrived.
At your follow-up we go through each result alongside your symptoms and history, and explain what changes in your plan and what doesn’t.
If a result needs medical attention, we’ll tell you plainly and, with your permission, share it with your family doctor.
Step by step
How testing works
1
Decide together
In your visit we talk about whether a test is worth doing. You hear the cost before anything is ordered.
2
Pay and collect
You get an invoice through Practice Better. Once it’s paid, your requisition appears in your portal, or a kit is mailed to your home.
3
Review together
Results are filed in your chart and we let you know. We go through them with you at a follow-up visit.
Testing works the same way for virtual patients. Dynacare and LifeLabs have collection sites across Ontario, and kits are mailed anywhere in the province.
What testing costs
Tests ordered by a naturopathic doctor aren’t covered by OHIP, so you pay the lab fee directly. The price depends on the test and the lab, and we give you the exact amount before ordering.
Some extended health plans cover lab fees ordered by a naturopathic doctor, so check yours. If you have a family doctor, we may suggest asking them for routine bloodwork that OHIP covers.
Questions people ask us
Do I need a visit before I can order a test?
Yes. Tests are ordered by your naturopathic doctor as part of your care, usually after your first visit, once we know what would actually be useful.
Can you use bloodwork I already have?
Yes, and we often start there. Upload recent results to Practice Better before your visit so we can review them together.
Is lab testing covered by OHIP?
No. Tests ordered by a naturopathic doctor are paid by you. Some extended health plans cover them, and we tell you the exact cost before ordering.
Can I do testing if I see you virtually?
Yes. Bloodwork requisitions work at Dynacare and LifeLabs collection sites across Ontario, and specialty test kits are mailed to your home.
How long do results take?
Most bloodwork comes back within a few days. Results from at-home kits take longer, often a few weeks once the lab receives your sample. We give you an estimate when we order.
What does a first visit cost?
The first visit is 75 minutes and costs $295. Follow-ups are $125 for 30 minutes, $185 for 45 minutes or $225 for 60 minutes. You pay after each visit, and there are no packages to buy. Many extended health plans include naturopathic care, so it’s worth checking yours.
Who you'll see
Dr. Jada MacLeod, ND
Naturopathic doctor for 17 years and Somatic Experiencing practitioner. In person in Ottawa and virtual.
Dr. Negin Sayar, ND
Virtual care across Ontario, with a focus on perimenopause, menopause, PMOS and digestive health.
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This page is general information, not medical advice or a diagnosis. Your care plan depends on your own history and assessment.