Are NDs real doctors?
Can you be my primary-care provider?
Since 2010, Dr. Orna has offered primary-care services to Oregon patients consistent with her training and local laws. Alaska, however, does not yet allowed naturopathic doctors a full scope of practice commensurate with our training. That means NDs cannot currently prescribe hormones and other pharmaceutical medications that are sometimes needed to give patients the best care. The Alaska Association of Naturopathic Doctors is working with the Alaska Legislature to expand our ability to care for patients through House Bill 147. Read more here.
Do you take my insurance?
Naturopathic telemedicine visits are covered by most insurance plans, and Dr. Orna is a preferred provider in several Alaska networks. Find the current list here. Where she is out of network, you will get a discount for payment at time of service and a form to submit directly to your insurance company for reimbursement. Read more here.
How long is a first medical appointment?
Expect our first office to take 90 to 120 minutes — it’s all about getting your full story. You’ll leave the appointment with a written plan of next steps to take, including a lab order if you haven’t been checked recently. Read all about what to expect on the Getting Started page.
How long are follow-up medical appointments?
In your follow-up visits, I’ll review any labs, adjust your treatment plan, answer your questions and keep you moving forward. These usually last 30 to 45 minutes. Read more on The Journey page.
What is cognitive-behavioral therapy for insomnia (CBT-I)?
Cognitive behabioral therapy for insomnia is an evidence-based, first-line treatment for chronic insomnia. By changing certain thoughts and actions people see significant and durable sleep improvement even with long-standing sleep issues. Treatment is delivered in 6 to 8 weekly or biweekly sessions. No medications or supplements are required.
How often will I come in?
Most patients make medical appointments monthly. This lets us check in on your progress, maintain momentum, and tweak treatment plans, supplements and herbal prescriptions, and address any new issues that surface. Read more about The Journey.
For cognitive behavioral therapy for insomnia, expect to come weekly or biweekly for 6 to 8 sessions.
How much does this cost?
All telemedicine prices are based on the amount of time we spend together. If you have insurance, please contact your plan provider to find out what to expect in terms of deductibles, copays, coinsurance and limitations.
If you are paying cash, you will receive a good faith estimate of costs shortly after booking your initial appointment.
Herbs and supplements are an additional cost in all cases. Most patients spend less than $6 daily for these. Lab fees vary, and not all are covered by insurance.
What does "Alta" mean?
Dr. Orna committed herself decades ago to the land along the northwestern edge of North America. Her practice spans Cascadia — defined as where the salmon go — from its southern edges in Oregon to its highest latitude in Alaska. Alta is Spanish for high or upper, as in Alta Cascadia.
Where is the clinic?
With the advent of COVID-19 and new rules to enable practice during a pandemic, we are now able to offer all appointments virtually — so the clinic is wherever you have access to the internet. We’ll meet on a secure, HIPAA-compliant platform called Doxy.me — no downloads required. All you need is privacy, decent lighting and a good internet connection for us to connect. If you’d prefer, HIPAA-compliant Zoom appointments are also an option. The link is in every reminder email.
How does telemedicine work?
Since March 2020, Dr. Orna has used telemedicine exclusively for all her patients — and they love it. All you need is a private place, good internet signal and decent lighting. The link to Dr. Orna’s virtual office, Doxy.me, is clearly noted in every reminder email, and you’re always welcome to call or message us through the patient portal if you have trouble finding it. When it’s time for your appointment, just hit the link and the doctor will be right with you! Read more here.
Do naturopathic and herbal medicines really work?
Here’s what Dr. Orna’s patients say.
Where do your plant medicines come from?
As an environmentalist, herbalist and physician, I take great care in finding the best sources for the plant medicines used in my practice. The herbs on my shelves are organically grown or ethically harvested in clean, wild places, often locally, and are carefully prepared mostly by people I know personally. Read more about plant medicines here.
What are flower essences?
Flower essences are remedies that help patients with stuck emotions and thoughts. They are the key modality Dr. Orna uses for for her fifth pillar, Change Your Mind, Change Your Life. Read more about flower essences here.
Where does nutrition come in?
Nutrition is the heart of health — we really are what we eat. Working together we will find the foods that best suit your body’s unique needs to keep you fit, energetic, clear-minded and joyful.
How do I get my supplements?
Dr. Orna uses Fullscript as an online medicinary. After your visit, Dr. Orna will recommend supplements online, and you’ll be able to purchase directly from the site. Every patient gets a discount to defray shipping costs, and your prescriptions will arrive directly at your door. And you can reorder online anytime!
How can I improve access to naturopathic medicine in Alaska?
Alaskan naturopathic doctors have a more limited scope of practice than other healthcare providers in the state with equal or lesser training. Naturopathic doctors practice safely under the complete scope in many other states — as I have done in Oregon since 2010. Please support House Bill 147 to improve healthcare access for all Alaskans. Read more here.