bringing naturopathic care to our community

When I moved to Drumheller, I knew I had to integrate myself into the community to figure out where my knowledge and experience could be of most benefit.

So as a new local, I wandered the coulees trying to identify the local plants, went exploring on my bicycle, headed to the hills with my pals and our dogs, and got roared at by the tourists on top of Tyra.

I also talked to people about their healthcare teams and asked them about their experiences with pregnancy, childbirth, lactation, menopause and medicine. At the same time, I went to providers for my own care.

I watched pregnant and birthing people experience joy, frustration, trauma, confusion, success, disappointment, and healing. I listened to anyone who was gracious enough to share their story with me.

And what I learned was this… we have amazing providers in this town. We are incredibly lucky to have so many caring and skilled nurses, physicians, paramedics, healthcare aids, chiropractors, dentists, RMTs, energy workers, physiotherapists and allied healthcare professionals here in the Valley.

We also have some BIG gaps in care. 

Those with pelvic floor concerns have to leave the Valley to find a provider. Many folks are looking for menopause symptom support and do not know how to access information. And for pregnant folks who seek the patient-centered, informed consent driven model of midwifery care, the closest practice is in Airdrie.

these are the gaps i hope to fill in our community.

allow me to introduce myself…

Hello, I’m Pam!

I grew up on a farm in the North Saskatchewan River Valley by Buck Creek, Alberta. I moved to Edmonton to study animal biology at the U of A and that is where I met my musical farmer husband, Joe Vickers. Joe has a deep love for Drumheller and I knew that one day I too would become a local.

After my biology degree I completed a five year doctorate in naturopathic medicine in Portland, Oregon. My clinical training focused mostly on pregnancy, natural childbirth, postpartum care for parents and infants, and gender affirming care. This area of naturopathic medicine is a passion for me because I believe that these are the areas of healthcare where prevention is paramount and has lifelong (and multi-generational) implications. Since birthing my own children and with growing older, my interests have expanded to include pelvic floor and menopause care.

PHILOSOPHIES I EMBRACE AND PROMOTE

1) Health at Every Size. Every body is amazing and deserves to feel whole.

2) Harm Reduction. 

3) Anti-racism.

4) Inclusion.

5) Client-centered care.

6) Evidence-based medicine.