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Laws For Naturopathic Doctors

Naturopathic doctors, also known as naturopaths, specialize in the use of natural and alternative healing therapies, including herbal remedies, hydrotherapy and nutritional supplements. Some states license naturopathic doctors, permitting them to practice naturopathy and, in some cases, to act as primary care physicians. Laws governing naturopaths generally require that licensed naturopaths meet specific and ongoing educational requirements and place limitations on their medical authority and practices.

  1. Education

    • The states that license naturopathic doctors typically require candidates to complete a four-year course in naturopathy that is approved or accredited by certain professional associations, accrediting agencies or by the state licensing board. Candidates are often also required to pass the Naturopathic Physicians Licensing Examination. Continuing education may also be required as a condition of keeping and renewing a license to practice naturopathy (see References 1).

    Scope of Practice

    • The scope of practice for naturopaths varies considerably between states. In California, for example, a naturopath can perform physical examinations and order laboratory tests for her patients. She can also order x-rays, but cannot interpret the x-rays herself. Some states, such as Oregon and California, permit a naturopath to attend women in childbirth, providing that he completes additional certification and training (see References 2 and 3 and 7 685.135).

      Naturopaths may also be restricted from performing certain alternative therapies without being credentialed or licensed in that therapy. For example, Maine does not permit a naturopath to perform acupuncture unless he has completed a 1300-hour training program and passed a certification exam (see References 4).

    Prescribing Drugs

    • In some states, such as Oregon, naturopathic doctors are able to prescribe, order or administer certain pharmaceutical drugs (as opposed to herbs or supplements) to their patients. Depending on state law, the naturopath may be able to write or order a prescription independently or may only be able to prescribe pharmaceuticals in consultation with a medical doctor or osteopath (see References 3 and 6).

    Titles and Disclosures

    • State laws may require that a naturopath disclose to patients and potential patients that he is a naturopath and that his training is in naturopathy, not conventional medicine. Regulations and laws may also restrict the types of titles that a naturopath can use professionally. For example, both Alaska and Maine forbid a naturopath from describing himself as a "physician" (see References 5 Sec. 08.45.050), while Oregon's laws do not (see References 7 685.020 ).

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