This Code of Ethics sets out the standards of conduct expected of every member of the Quebec Association of Naturopathic Medicine (QANM). It exists because naturopathic medicine in Quebec is not yet a regulated profession: there is no professional order, no government-issued licence, and no legal body overseeing who may use the title “naturopathe” or “naturopath.” In that environment, QANM’s Code of Ethics is one of the only concrete assurances a Quebec patient has that the naturopath in front of them is accountable to a defined standard.
Membership in QANM is voluntary, but adherence to this Code is not. Every member regardless of membership class agrees to uphold it as a condition of joining and remaining a member in good standing, consistent with Article 3 of the QANM By-laws.
With patients, colleagues, and the public about training, scope, evidence, and limitations.
Members shall obtain informed consent before initiating any assessment or treatment. This includes explaining, in plain language, the nature of the recommended therapy, its likely benefits, any reasonably foreseeable risks, and any reasonable alternatives including the alternative of seeking conventional medical care. Consent must be voluntary and may be withdrawn by the patient at any time.
Members shall keep all patient information clinical, personal, and financial confidential, and shall disclose it only with the patient’s consent or as required by law (for example, where there is a legal duty to report risk of serious harm). Patient records shall be stored securely and retained in accordance with applicable privacy law.
Members shall practise only within the bounds of their training and the naturopathic scope of practice, and shall not represent themselves as licensed medical doctors (MDs) or as any other regulated health professional they are not. Where a patient’s presentation falls outside a member’s competence or the naturopathic scope including any presentation suggesting a medical emergency or a condition requiring conventional diagnosis or treatment the member shall refer the patient promptly to an appropriate physician or other regulated healthcare provider.
Members shall maintain appropriate professional boundaries with patients and avoid dual relationships financial, personal, or otherwise that could impair professional judgment or be perceived as exploitative.
Members shall represent their qualifications, training, and QANM membership status honestly, and shall not use the title “naturopath,” “ND,” or imply QANM membership unless they are, in fact, a member in good standing meeting QANM’s entry-to-practice requirements.
Members shall not make exaggerated, false, or misleading claims about the effectiveness of any therapy, product, or service in advertising, on social media, or in clinical practice. Claims regarding a specific diagnosis, cure, or treatment outcome (particularly for serious illnesses such as cancer) shall not be made without a reasonable evidentiary basis.
Naturopathic practitioners are expected to conduct themselves with honesty, integrity, professionalism, and respect in all professional and business activities. They must provide accurate information about their qualifications, services, and professional experience, and avoid misleading, deceptive, or inappropriate advertising. Practitioners should maintain appropriate professional boundaries and ensure that their business practices uphold the dignity and reputation of the naturopathic profession.
Naturopathic practitioners should treat colleagues and other healthcare professionals with courtesy, respect, and professionalism. They are encouraged to support collaboration, open communication, and the sharing of knowledge that benefits patients and advances the profession. Practitioners should avoid conduct that unfairly undermines the reputation or professional standing of another practitioner and should address professional disagreements respectfully and appropriately.
Naturopathic practitioners have a responsibility to maintain and continually develop their professional knowledge, skills, and competence. They should stay informed about current standards, evidence, legislation, and developments relevant to naturopathic medicine. Practitioners should recognize the limits of their knowledge and skills, seek appropriate education or consultation when necessary, and only provide services for which they are adequately qualified and competent.
Any patient, member, or member of the public may raise a concern that a QANM member has violated this Code of Ethics.
Concerns should be submitted in writing to the QANM Board of Directors, including a description of the concern, the member involved, and any supporting information.
Depending on the nature and severity of the matter, the Board may take one or more of the following actions, consistent with its authority under the Constitution and By-laws (including the “good standing” provisions of By-law 3.4):
The Board shall handle all concerns and reviews with discretion, disclosing details only to those directly involved in reviewing or resolving the matter, except where disclosure is required by law.
A member subject to a concern shall be informed of the substance of the concern and given a reasonable opportunity to respond before the Board reaches a decision.
