FREQUENTLY ASKED QUESTIONS

Functional medicine is a forward thinking, patient-centered approach that focuses on identifying the root causes of disease rather than treating the symptoms. It seeks to understand the origins of chronic disease so that meaningful treatment and prevention methods can be applied in order to initiate a natural healing response.

The philosophy recognizes each patient as a unique individual and takes into account environmental and lifestyle factors. A Functional Medicine approach relies less on synthetic drugs and more on the thorough investigation of a patient using the following tools:

• comprehensive medical history
• evaluation of the patient’s lifestyle and environmental factors
• comprehensive physical evaluation
• education based approach where the patient becomes less dependent on the doctor to maintain their health
• utilization of advanced functional medicine testing in order to identify areas of imbalance  

A

ADHD | Allergies | Anxiety | Arthritis

B

Back Pain

C

Cancer | Cardiovascular Disease | Chronic Fatigue | Colds

D

Diabetes | Digestive Disorders

E

Ear, Nose and Throat Infections | Eczema

F

Fibromyalgia | Flu

H

Dr. Dempster, ND is a board certified Naturopathic Doctor who is registered to practice in the province of Ontario.  He completed a four-year program in Naturopathic Medicine at The Canadian College of Naturopathic Medicine (CCNM) in Toronto, Ontario.  Dr. Dempster, ND has also completed training in Intravenous Vitamin Therapy.

*Naturopathic Doctors (ND’s) are the only regulated health professional in the field of natural medicine in Ontario.

Summary of Qualifications

Registered to practice Naturopathic Medicine in Ontario

Licensed to practice Intravenous Vitamin Therapy in Ontario

Ontario Association of Naturopathic Doctors, member

Canadian Association of Naturopathic Doctors, member

Fellow in Anti-Aging, Regenerative, and Functional Medicine (FAAFM)

American Academy of Anti-Aging Medicine

Intravenous (IV) Vitamin Therapy is the infusion of vitamins, minerals, amino acids, and other natural substances directly into the vein. Bypassing the digestive system is the main advantage of IV nutrition.

Anyone can benefit from Intravenous Vitamin Therapy! You should consider IV  therapy if looking to maintain optimal health or are suffering from an illness or medical condition.

Learn more about IV Vitamin Therapy

Testing is conducted through both conventional and specialty laboratories.  Some samples can be collected at home with provided test kits to collect urine, saliva or stool. Others may require you to visit a local lab in order to draw blood. In all cases, our clinic staff will assist you in coordinating initial and follow-up testing. During your initial appointment, Dr. Dempster, ND will determine which tests are required. Upon checkout, our office administrator will review the following items with you: testing recommendations, instructions (i.e. fasting or non-fasting, etc.), laboratory locations and cost.

*While the lab testing allows for a more complete picture of your overall health status, efficient care can be implemented without it, and/or testing can be done over time.

You do not need to have a specific health concern in order to book an appointment. Many of our patients simply want to optimize their health, therefore anyone is welcome to book an appointment. We can all improve our state of health and internal balance- that’s what Naturopathic and Functional Medicine are all about!  I am pleased to offer you a Complimentary 15-minute Discovery Session where we can discuss your health goals and how you may benefit from the services I provide.  For your convenience, this complimentary session can take place over the phone or in person at the clinic.  Get Started today!

Yes, Dr. Dempster, ND’s medical certificate of registration requires that he meet with patients in order to provide an initial medical consultation.  However, the Complimentary 15-minute Discovery Session and  follow-up appointments can be arranged by phone.

Initial appointments typically last one hour, so please plan accordingly. During this time, Dr. Dempster, ND will review your medical history, current health status and any contributing factors to current health issues. The initial appointment will include:

• review of your detailed questionnaire
• relevant physical exam
• recommendation of relevant lab tests in order to gain insight regarding your specific health needs. These tests are done in office, at a local lab or at home.

When you attend your initial appointment, please bring all of your vitamins and medication in their original packaging (if possible).  It is encouraged that you also come with medical records that have been issued over the past year.

Due to Ontario regulations, The Dempster Clinic- Center for Functional Medicine does not file insurance claims on your behalf, nor can we assist with claim resolution. However, our clinic staff will provide you with a detailed receipt of your services in order for you to submit directly to your insurance provider.

While naturopathic medicine is not covered by OHIP, it is often covered by many extended healthcare providers.  We encourage you to contact your healthcare provider today in order to inquire about naturopathic coverage.

Services are to be paid in full at the end of each appointment. For your convenience, we accept cash, debit, or credit card (Mastercard, Visa or American Express).  It is important to maintain an active credit card on file for billing and follow-up appointments.

Yes, Naturopathic Doctors (ND’s) are the only regulated health professional in the field of natural medicine in Ontario.

You can order supplements by calling our office directly at 416-551-9577 or emailing admin@thedempsterclinic.com

There is no on-site parking at The Dempster Clinic- Center for Functional Medicine. We recommend parking at one of the nearby parking lots listed on our Contact page.