EDMONDS — Bastyr University has opened a naturopathic clinic in Edmonds as part of its teaching program in concert with the Edmonds Senior Center.
The practice is led by Dr. Ryan Bradley of Edmonds, who is a clinical core faculty member at the university and is assisted by three to four student clinicians.
Students are matched with patients to develop relationships that promote continuity of care.
Naturopathy is a form of primary care, with an emphasis on healthy living and lifestyle.
The clinic, which opened its doors in January and held a ribbon-cutting ceremony last month, is booked through the next several months, according to Bradley.
“I’ve been quite surprised with the demand,” Bradley said.
Edmonds is the only clinic Bastyr has opened in Snohomish County. Because of community interest, the clinic’s opening was moved up by one year. No others are in the planning stages, Bradley said.
The Edmonds location is one of 12 that the Kenmore-based university’s faculty and students run in the area. Two others are in senior centers in Shoreline and Greenwood.
“Clinical work is vital to our students to become good doctors,” said Dr. Jane Guiltinan, dean and professor of Bastyr’s School of Naturopathic Medicine. “Our hope is for all to take advantage of the services.”
The Edmonds clinic is located at the Edmonds Senior Center, but is not just for seniors. Practitioners have treated people in their 20s and 30s, mainly because of the low cost of the care for those without health insurance, Guiltinan said.
Bastyr University is providing clinicians at no charge to the senior center. It is part of their learning experience. The senior center charges a $15 administrative fee that can be waived is there is a financial need.
The clinic cannot accept private insurance or Medicare.
The Edmonds clinic has a limited dispensary of natural products, including dietary supplements and herbal remedies. Samples, when available, are given to patients for free.
The clinic dovetails with the senior center’s existing portfolio of medical services, health, wellness and fitness offerings, Bradley said.
“Health and wellness is something we want to move into in a major way,” said Farrell Fleming, executive director of the senior center. “We want to connect with ‘boomers,’ eyeing them as new members as they come kicking and screaming into being a senior.”
Grants totaling $30,000 have been secured to sustain the clinic through 2014.
Students working at the clinic are part of Bastyr’s four-year naturopathic medicine program. One requirement for graduation is 1,200 hours of clinical training.
The clinic is at the Senior Center at 220 Railroad Ave. For appointments or information, call 425-774-5555.
Bastyr University
Bastyr University has opened a naturophathic clinic at the Edmonds Senior Center, 220 Railroad Ave. Edmonds. For appointments or information, call 425-774-5555.
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