Training
A Licensed naturopathic physician (N.D.) attends a four-year graduate level naturopathic medical school and is educated in all of the same basic sciences as an M.D. but also studies holistic and nontoxic approaches to therapy with a strong emphasis on disease prevention and optimizing wellness.
The Doctor of Naturopathic Medicine (ND) degree is awarded after classroom, clinic and practical study. ND's are trained in medical sciences including anatomy, physiology, biochemistry, microbiology, immunology, pharmacology, cardiology, neurology, radiology, minor surgery, obstetrics, gynecology, pediatrics, psychology, dermatology, and clinical and physical diagnosis.
The curriculum also includes: therapeutic nutrition, botanical medicine, homeopathy, hydrotherapy, manipulative therapy, and counseling.
Specialized training and certifications can be obtained in: homeopathy, IV therapy, natural childbirth, acupuncture and oriental medicine, or ayurvedic medicine.
Clinical training includes: 1200 hours of direct patient contact with a minimum of 500 patient contacts, demonstrated competence in specific clinical skills, guidance and assessment of the clinical staff in clinical skills, knowledge, judgement, professional and ethical behavior, and communication skills.
Naturopathic doctors take rigorous professional board exams so that she or he is eligible to be licensed in a specific state as a general practice naturopathic doctor. Education
When choosing a naturopathic doctor, it is important to ask where he or she received their training. The following are schools accredited or candidates for accreditation by the Council for Naturopathic Medical Education:
- Bastyr University in Kenmore, Washington
- National College of Naturopathic Medicine in Portland, Oregon
- Southwest College of Naturopathic Medicine and Health Sciences in Tempe, Arizona
- University of Bridgeport College of Naturopathic Medicine in Bridgeport, Connecticut
- Canadian College of Naturopathic Medicine in North York, Ontario
Additional information on naturopathic medical schools can be obtained at:
www.aanmc.org
Licensing
Today, naturopathic doctors are licensed in 13 U.S. states, including Hawaii, Oregon, Washington, Connecticut, Arizona, Utah, Alaska, New Hampshire, Vermont, Maine, Idaho, California, and Montana. In addition, we are licensed to practice in Washington D.C., Puerto Rico and the U.S. Virgin Islands. For more information on licensure, contact the American Association of Naturopathic Physicians at www.naturopathic.org.
|
