Education and LicensingNaturopathic Doctors (NDs) are trained as Primary care physicians with an emphasis on prevention and natural therapies. Naturopathic Doctors complete a 4-year doctorate level program including two years of supervised clinical practice. NDs study the same basic and clinical sciences as do other medical students as well as the full spectrum of natural medicines and therapies. To be licensed, NDs must then pass a national board examination and meet other requirements for licensure. NDs are extensively trained in physical examination, laboratory testing, gynecological examinations, nutritional and dietary assessments, metabolic analysis, allergy testing and other diagnostic tests. NDs are the only primary care physicians trained in the use of a wide variety of natural therapies including nutrition, herbal medicine, homeopathy, and lifestyle counseling to restore and maintain wellness. NDs can perform complete physical examinations including women's health exams and can order laboratory tests and diagnostic imaging. They combine and adapt naturopathic medicine treatments to the needs of the individual patient based on a philosophy which acknowledges the patient as an active participant in the healing process. This is the main difference that exists between Naturopathic Doctors (NDs) and other “naturopaths”. In general, “naturopaths” have not had the medical training that qualifies them to diagnose and treat such a wide-range of conditions. Many have completed a correspondence course, which does not provide them with the same extent of coursework as well as any clinical experience and patient contact before beginning their practice. Of course, there are gifted healers from all types of educational backgrounds. If you are looking for a comprehensive and integrative approach to your medical care, be sure to ask your practitioner if they are board certified and recognize your right to receive the most complete medical care there is to offer. |
