Costs & coverage
Is naturopathy covered by Manitoba Health? Costs, insurance and tax claims
By Natura Integrative Care Clinic · Updated · 3 min read
The short answer
No. Manitoba Health doesn’t cover visits to a naturopathic doctor, acupuncture, or lab testing an ND orders. Many workplace and individual extended health plans cover naturopathic medicine. Fees paid to a registered ND in Manitoba can also count toward the federal medical expense tax credit.
If you searched “is naturopathy covered by Manitoba Health”, the short answer is no. The more useful answer is that the cost of seeing a naturopathic doctor in Manitoba can often be offset, partly, through extended health benefits and the medical expense tax credit.
What should I ask my insurer or look for in my benefits summary?
- Does my plan cover a naturopathic doctor, and under what benefit name (for example “naturopath” or “paramedical”)?
- What percentage is reimbursed, and is there a per-visit maximum?
- What is my yearly maximum, and is it shared with massage, chiropractic or other practitioners?
- If the ND does acupuncture, do I submit it under naturopathic medicine or acupuncture?
- Are lab fees for tests ordered by an ND covered?
- Do I have a health care spending account, and can it be used for naturopathic visits?
- How do I submit receipts?
Natura doesn’t direct bill insurers. You pay at your visit and submit the receipt to your insurer for reimbursement. See fees and insurance for current prices.
Can I claim naturopathic fees on my taxes?
Often, yes. The CRA’s list of authorized medical practitioners for the medical expense tax credit includes naturopathic doctors in Manitoba, so fees paid to a registered ND can be eligible medical expenses.
Common questions
Does Manitoba Health cover lab tests ordered by a naturopathic doctor?
No. Prices vary widely depending on what’s tested. Ask your insurer whether your plan reimburses lab fees.
Is acupuncture covered by Manitoba Health?
No. Many extended health plans do. Check your plan.
Does Natura direct bill my insurance?
No. You pay at your visit and submit the receipt to your insurer yourself.
This article is general information, not medical advice for your situation. If you're unwell or worried, talk to your doctor or call Health Links – Info Santé, Manitoba’s free 24-hour nurse line, at 1-888-315-9257. In an emergency, call 911.
