Self-Assessment: Laboratory Testing

Naturopathic Doctors in Ontario are authorized to collect certain specimens and requisition specific laboratory tests under the Naturopathy Act, 2007, the General Regulation and the Laboratory and Specimen Collection Centre Licensing Act, 1990 (LSCCLA).

This self-assessment tool has been developed to help Registrants meet their professional and legal obligations in ordering lab tests, collecting specimens, and managing results. It uses questions to help you assess your knowledge of lab testing guidelines and practices and should be used in conjunction with the resources below.

Three-Step Process – Read, Identify, Review and Change

1. Read Our Resources

Key resources include:

2. Identify
Identify situations where you requisitioned lab tests or collected specimens and what steps were followed to ensure compliance with the legislation, College standards, and patient safety.

3. Modify
You should regularly review your laboratory testing practices to ensure that they comply with the College’s regulations and standards of practice. Where the standards are not met, you should review and consider what steps will be taken to ensure compliance and the ongoing safety of patients.

Remember…NDs are fully responsible and accountable for the specimens they collect, the tests they requisition, and the interpretation of results. They must ensure that they possess the knowledge, skill and judgement required to perform these activities safely and ethically.