Naturopathic Physicians

Naturopathic physicians in the United States are independent providers with training in conventional medical sciences, diagnosis and treatment, and natural therapeutics with licenses granted by an individual state Naturopathic Board of Medical Examiners. They graduate from four-year nationally accredited naturopathic medical schools ( Bastyr University in Kenmore Washington; National College of Natural Medicine in Portland, Oregon; Southwest College of Naturopathic Medicine and Health Science in Tempe, Arizona and University of Bridgeport College of Naturopathic Medicine in Bridgeport, Connecticut). They are educated in all of the same basic sciences as an M.D. but also study holistic and nontoxic approaches to therapy with a strong emphasis on disease prevention and optimizing wellness

Naturopathic physicians are trained in different modalities, with a focus on Nutrition, Botanical medicine, Hydrotherapy, Physical manipulation and Minor surgery. Some naturopathic physicians have additional training in the following: Natural childbirth, Acupuncture and Chinese medicine. These subspecialties often involve additional years of study. Naturopathic physicians are required to attend continuing education yearly in order to maintain and renew their licenses.

Naturopathic physicians are licensed to diagnose and treat disease in Alaska, Arizona, California, Connecticut, District of Columbia, Hawaii, Idaho, Kansas, Maine, Montana, New Hampshire, Oregon, Utah, Vermont, Washington, US Territories: Puerto Rico and Virgin Islands. Naturopathic physicians also practice in every other state.

Naturopathic physicians work in cooperation with both conventional and alternative practitioners to provide patients with complete medical care. Naturopathic physicians can bridge disparate fields with their training in both conventional and non-conventional treatment. Naturopathic physicians are able to identify and prescribe appropriate treatment and refer to conventional physicians.