As a naturopathic doctor in this community for 15 years, I have seen (and experienced) some of the holes in our health care system. I want my community to be one of the healthiest communities possible, so I'm always trying to think of ways in which my clinic can make a difference. Not only in the health of the individual, but also the health of the community.

In the past couple of years, patients have started to voice their desire for an alternative to having to go to a walk-in clinic for acute colds, flus, ear infections, urinary tract infections, acute pain and more. Patients are also looking for alternatives to antibiotics and would prefer to only use them as a last resort.

So to address this void I have started a pilot project with Dr. Pat Nardini at my clinic for 2019.

Starting in January, every Tuesday morning, anyone can book an appointment for an acute care health concern. This includes, but is not limited to, colds, flus, upper respiratory tract infections, bladder infections, and ear infections. You do not have be a current patient. You can already have another ND for your other chronic concerns. You do not have to become a long-term patient after your acute visit.

Interested in having this service available to you or know someone who would?

Here are the details you need to know:

Who: anyone who is looking for an alternative to sitting at a walk-in-clinic for hours and would like to treat their acute conditions with antibiotics as a last resort

When: Tuesday mornings 9am - 1pm

Appointment length: 15 min; pick your own time slot

Cost: $25

How: Book your appointment online at www.quintenc.ca and select Dr. Pat Nardini. Click "Acute Care Clinic" then click on any Tuesday morning all winter and select a time that works for you.

Now I would love to hear from you! Do you have any suggestions for improving the health of your community? Leave a comment below and I'll be back next week with another edition of Doctor as Teacher Tuesday!