Whether you're focused on prevention, longevity, or root-cause healing - choosing the right doctor for your health goals can feel overwhelming. In the helpful video overview below, Dr. Hailey Heishman, ND compares the core training, philosophy, and approach of five healthcare providers: naturopathic doctors (NDs), medical doctors (MDs), osteopathic doctors (DOs), chiropractors (DCs), and nurse practitioners (NPs). NDs stand out for their emphasis on whole-person, preventative care, functional lab testing, and natural therapies like clinical nutrition, herbal medicine, and mind-body counseling. MDs and DOs, while highly trained in pathology, pharmacology, and surgery, often operate within short visits and insurance-driven protocols focused on disease management. DCs are best for spinal alignment and nervous system support, with limited internal medicine training. NPs can provide compassionate primary care and prescriptions but typically lack root-cause training unless pursued additionally. Ultimately, while insurance often dictates provider choice, true wellness may require stepping outside that model. For those seeking empowered, long-term healing and disease prevention, naturopathic doctors may offer you the most aligned and transformative support.