HomeAbout Makai Naturopathic CenterFrequently Asked Questions

Do you accept insurance?

We will supply you with all the appropriate insurance codes necessary to submit your claims for reimbursement at the time of your visit. Many insurance companies cover Dr. Marshall's visit fees as an out of network physician and the reimbursement will vary (usually 80% - 100%) according to your specific contract. It's a good idea to check with your insurance provider first if you're relying on them to cover your visits. Be sure to mention that Naturopathic Doctors are licensed physicians in the District of Columbia.

Both Flex Spending Plans and Health Savings Accounts can be used to cover any visit fees not covered by your insurance. They will also cover laboratory tests and most nutritional or herbal supplements prescribed.

Do I have to stop all of my medications and supplements before my visit?

Definitely not. No prescription medications should ever be stopped abruptly. We ask that you bring all prescriptions and supplements with you to your first visit. This allows the doctors to accurately evaluate what you are taking. Naturopathic Doctors are well trained to evaluate potential drug/herb and drug/nutrient interaction; your safety is our first priority. Dr. Marshall understands the value of combining the best of both conventional and alternative medicine.

Are Naturopathic Doctors licensed doctors?

Yes, the district of Columbia does license Naturopathic Doctors. This license signifies the same rights and responsibilities for Naturopaths as for any doctor. We are licensed to diagnose conditions utilizing physical exams and laboratory assessment and to develop a treatment plan that is based on Naturopathic principles.

Do Naturopathic doctors go to medical school?

Yes, a licensed naturopathic doctor has to go to a four year accredited medical school and must pass a national licensing exam in order to practice. There are currently five accredited schools in North America: NCNM, Bastyr, Southwest College, Bridgeport, and Canadian College. A word of caution; there are several mail order degree programs. These types of practitioners have different training than a licensed Naturopathic Doctors and are not eligible to carry a medical license.

How long will my first appointment be?

The initial visit will last approximately 1.5 hours. Make sure you have that amount of time set aside so that you do not feel rushed. Follow-up visits generally last between 30-45 minutes.

What should I expect?

At the initial visit, the doctor will spend the majority of time talking with you, listening in detail, and asking a lot of questions with regard to your personal health history. If necessary a physical exam will be performed. If labs need to be ordered, this will be discussed as well.

Is there anything I should bring to my visit?

If you have had any labs done within the past year, it is helpful to have a copy of them with you. Also, be sure to write down any questions or concerns you may have ahead of time so that you do not forget to ask during your visit. Lastly, bring with you all prescriptions and supplements that you take on a regular basis. Simply put them in a grocery bag and bring them along.

How often do I come back?

Because you are given nutrition and lifestyle goals, you need time to work on these at home. Unless you are acutely sick, your second appointment will usually be four to six weeks later.

Will I have to take supplements?

The ultimate goal is to reach a point of optimal health that is maintained through diet and lifestyle. Vitamins and minerals, homeopathy, and botanical medicine are tools we use to help you get to this point. Once we have achieved our goals using supplementation we prefer to reduce supplementation until we reach a balance point. However, serious chronic diseases often do require long-term interventions.

Dr. Marshall emphasizes the value of integrating the best of both conventional and alternative medicines. We feel that natural medicines are often safer and more gentle than drugs when prescribed correctly, but do understand that pharmaceutical prescriptions can be necessary tools as well. We prefer to use natural medicines that address disease without interfering with the road to wellness.

Do you have a cancellation policy?

We ask that you give us 24 hours notice if you need to cancel. We reserve the right to bill you if 24-hour notice is not provided.

Do you have evening or weekend appointments available?

Currently Dr. Marshall is only seeing patients on Tuesdays at the downtown DC office.