The Training of a Naturopathic Doctor (ND)

Naturopathic doctors (NDs) are healthcare professionals who focus on natural and holistic approaches to treating and preventing disease. Their training is rigorous and multifaceted, combining the study of conventional medical sciences with alternative therapies. If you’re considering visiting a naturopathic doctor, it’s essential to understand their education, training, and credentials to ensure you’re receiving qualified care. Here’s a breakdown of what it takes to become a licensed naturopathic doctor.

Educational Background

To become a naturopathic doctor, an individual must first complete a bachelor’s degree, typically with a focus on pre-medical studies or a related field such as biology, chemistry, or psychology. This undergraduate education provides the foundational knowledge necessary for advanced medical training.

Naturopathic Medical School

After obtaining a bachelor’s degree, aspiring naturopathic doctors must attend a four-year, graduate-level naturopathic medical school accredited by the Council on Naturopathic Medical Education (CNME). These schools offer a curriculum that combines conventional medical training with naturopathic principles.

Key areas of study include:

• Basic Sciences: Anatomy, physiology, biochemistry, and pathology.
• Clinical Sciences: Diagnosis, laboratory testing, pharmacology, and imaging.
• Naturopathic Therapies: Botanical medicine, nutrition, lifestyle counseling, nutraceuticals, hydrotherapy, homeopathy, pharmaceutical medicine, and physical medicine.

During the final two years of naturopathic medical school, students engage in clinical training where they work under the supervision of licensed NDs in various healthcare settings, gaining hands-on experience in diagnosing and treating patients in clinical rotations.

Licensing and Certification

Upon graduation, naturopathic doctors must pass the Naturopathic Physicians Licensing Examinations (NPLEX), which is the standard exam used across North America. The NPLEX is divided into two parts:

Part I: Basic biomedical sciences.

Part II: Clinical sciences and patient care.

Only those who pass the NPLEX are eligible for licensure in states and provinces that regulate the practice of naturopathic medicine.

It’s important to note that not all states in the U.S. require licensing for naturopathic doctors. In states where licensure is required, NDs are held to specific legal and ethical standards, ensuring a certain level of competency and professionalism.

Continuing Education

Naturopathic doctors are required to complete continuing education (CE) credits to maintain their licensure. These CE requirements vary by state but typically include courses in both conventional and naturopathic medical practices. This ensures that NDs remain up-to-date with the latest medical advancements and continue to provide safe and effective care.

Specializations and Board Certifications

Some naturopathic doctors choose to pursue additional training in specific areas such as oncology, pediatrics, or women’s health. This often involves additional coursework, clinical experience, and passing specialty board examinations. These board certifications demonstrate advanced knowledge and expertise in particular areas of naturopathic medicine.

Scope of Practice

The scope of practice for naturopathic doctors varies depending on the jurisdiction. In states where NDs are licensed, as in Washington state, naturopathic doctors perform physical exams, order and interpret lab tests, diagnose and treat illness, and prescribe and de-prescribe certain medications. In some states, their scope of practice may also include minor surgery and the administration of intravenous therapies.

Naturopathic doctors undergo extensive education and training to provide comprehensive healthcare that emphasizes natural and holistic approaches. Understanding their qualifications can help you make informed decisions about your healthcare. If you’re considering seeing a naturopathic doctor, make sure they are licensed in your state and inquire about their specific areas of expertise.

For more information, you can visit:

American Association of Naturopathic Physicians (AANP) or the Council on Naturopathic Medical Education (CNME).