Naturopathic Medicine

• Philosophy
• Training
• A Recent Article
• ND in NY

Philosophy

Naturopathic medicine is a system of medicine in which physicians seek to determine the cause of each symptom by assessing the function of the body as a whole. The physician works together with the patient to determine an individualized treatment plan with the least invasive clinically indicated combination of therapies. The core philosophy of naturopathic medicine is to assess and support the body's ability to heal and to promote wellness, physically, mentally and spiritually.

Training

Naturopathic physicians are trained as primary care providers. They receive a doctorate in naturopathic medicine after graduating from one of five accredited naturopathic medical schools in North America. The four or five year naturopathic medical education includes study of the biological sciences and conventional/western medical diagnosis and treatment. In addition, naturopathic physicians complete extensive academic and clinical education in other forms of medical diagnosis (Chinese and Ayurvedic medicine) and the safe and effective use of natural medicines. Natural medicines include diet and nutrition, exercise, the therapeutic use of vitamins and minerals, botanical medicine (herbs), homeopathy, counseling, physical therapies and much more. Naturopathic education emphasizes the role of a doctor as teacher, educating people about health, disease, treatment options and prevention. Naturopathic physicians pass a national board exam and attain a license in those states it is available.

 

A Recent Article

 

The Unmedicated Mind

By NANCY KEATES
July 13, 2007; Page W1, The Wall Street Journal
Backlash against antidepressants is fueling new interest in alternative treatments.

 

 

 

License Naturopathic Doctors in New York State

 

Did you know that the New York Association of Naturopathic Physicians (NYANP) is on the path toward obtaining state licensure for Naturopathic Doctors in New York State?

 

Licensure will allow Naturopathic Doctors to provide you with the services we are trained to provide after completing a 4-year doctorate program at a naturopathic medical school. We are trained as general practitioners who specialize in natural medicine. We are held to federally recognized standards of education and professional accountability.

 

Naturopathic Doctors are licensed in 14 states, Puerto Rico, the Virgin Islands and 4 Canadian provinces. In those places, patients are able to choose Naturopathic Doctors as primary care providers who are able to prevent, diagnose and treat disease with an array of supportive, natural medicines. Naturopathic Doctors are experts in drug/nutrient and drug/herb interactions and we are trained to know when to refer for further medical care.

 

Here is what you can do to help:

• Send an email to your legislators quickly and easily. Go to www.nyanp.org and follow the links to "Take Action by writing your legislator using Capwiz."
• Provide financial support. Your donation is greatly appreciated.
• Inform others about Naturopathic Medicine and the need to support licensure in New York.
• Stay informed by joining the NYANP mailing list.

How will New Yorkers benefit from a license?

• New Yorkers will have access to naturopathic medicine by qualified NDs.
• Naturopathic Doctors will be able to offer more services, the services they are trained to provide: perform exams, order lab tests, diagnose conditions, implement treatment and prevent disease.
• New Yorkers will be able to easily identify Naturopathic Doctors with physician level training.
• Public safety will be ensured by requiring NDs to meet rigorous educational standards and to pass national board exams.
• There is a greater likelihood that insurance coverage will be made available for Naturopathic care.