Episode 166: Naturopathic Medicine Insights Future Dr. Luong talked about what she learned about naturopathic doctors (NDs). She discussed the principles of naturopathic medicine and mentioned some differences in regulations across states in the US. Dr. Arreaza shared his opinion about the pros and cons of naturopathic medicine. Written by Teresa Luong, MSIV, American University of the Caribbean. Comments and editing by Hector Arreaza, MD.
Episode 166: Naturopathic Medicine Insights
Future Dr. Luong talked about what she learned about naturopathic doctors (NDs). She discussed the principles of naturopathic medicine and mentioned some differences in regulations across states in the US. Dr. Arreaza shared his opinion about the pros and cons of naturopathic medicine.
Written by Teresa Luong, MSIV, American University of the Caribbean. Comments and editing by Hector Arreaza, MD.
You are listening to Rio Bravo qWeek Podcast, your weekly dose of knowledge brought to you by the Rio Bravo Family Medicine Residency Program from Bakersfield, California, a UCLA-affiliated program sponsored by Clinica Sierra Vista, Let Us Be Your Healthcare Home. This podcast was created for educational purposes only. Visit your primary care provider for additional medical advice.
Arreaza: This may be a controversial topic. The term “natural” in medicine triggers strong reactions among allopathic doctors like me. Today we have a medical student who took up the challenge to talk about Naturopathic Doctors.
Teresa:I am providing information based on research and living in Washington state, which is considered one of the birthplaces of modern naturopathic medicine, boasts the highest population of naturopathic doctors and a wide range of practice specialties. It's important to note that my responses are not personal opinions but rather informed insights.
There are about 8,500 licensed naturopathic doctors in North America. Naturopathic Doctors may not use the title of physicians in California.
What is a Naturopathic Doctor?
While it’s true that in California naturopathic doctors are not legally permitted to use the term ”physician” to describe themselves, some still choose to refer to themselves as “naturopathic physicians” colloquially or in their practice branding. So, confusion can arise because naturopathic doctors, while legally not recognized as physicians in California, can function as primary care providers, this overlap in roles can lead to the informal use of terms like ”naturopathic physician.“ However, it’s important to recognize that legally, they are not recognized as physicians in this state.
Naturopathic doctors (NDs) are healthcare professionals who embrace a holistic approach to healing, focusing on natural and non-invasive therapies to support the body's inherent ability to heal itself. Naturopathic medicine has its roots in traditional healing practices from around the world, blending ancient wisdom with modern scientific knowledge. The philosophy of naturopathy emphasizes the importance of treating the whole person—mind, body, and spirit—rather than just addressing isolated symptoms or diseases.
What is an allopathic approach vs a holistic approach?
Allopathic medicine: Allopathic medicine focuses on diagnosing and treating specific symptoms or diseases using pharmaceutical drugs, surgery, and other conventional interventions. Treatment is often targeted at managing symptoms or eradicating pathogens.
Holistic medicine: Holistic medicine takes a broader approach, considering the whole person and aiming to address the root causes of illnesses. Treatment may involve a combination of conventional therapies and alternative modalities such as nutrition, herbal medicine, acupuncture, and lifestyle modifications. The focus is on promoting overall health and well-being rather than just treating isolated symptoms.
Core Principles Naturopathic Practitioners:
The six core principles of naturopathic medicine serve as guiding tenets for both diagnosis and treatment. These principles include:
-first, do no harm.
-the healing power of nature
-identify and treat the root cause
-treat the whole person,
-the physician as a teacher;
-and prevention as the best cure.
Treatment modalities: Naturopathic doctors employ a wide range of therapeutic modalities to address the unique needs of each individual, such as:
-Clinical nutrition, which focuses on using “food as medicine” to promote healing and prevent disease.
-Herbal medicine utilizes the medicinal properties of plants to support various bodily systems and restore balance.
-Acupuncture, everybody is familiar with acupuncture.
-Other modalities may include hydrotherapy, homeopathy, physical medicine (such as massage and manipulation), and lifestyle counseling.
The role of allopathic medications (NSAIDs, antibiotics) and surgical procedures.
Naturopathic doctors typically prioritize natural therapies and lifestyle intervention, but may also integrate conventional medicine when necessary. Their views on traditional medications, such as NSAIDs, antibiotics, and surgical procedures vary depending on the individual practitioner and their approach to healthcare. Some may recommend them when appropriate, while others may prefer to explore alternative options first. Ultimately, their goal is often to promote holistic health and well-being.
Education and Training:
Pre-Medical Requirements: Aspiring naturopathic doctors typically complete undergraduate coursework in pre-medical sciences, including Biology, Chemistry, Physics, and Psychology.
Naturopathic Medical Program:Naturopathic doctors must graduate from a four-year accredited naturopathic medical school. The forst two years are basic sciences courses and the last 2 years are clinical courses.
After completing their naturopathic medical education, graduates must pass the Naturopathic Physicians Licensing Examinations (NPLEX) to become licensed practitioners. MDs need a residency, and NDs can start working immediately after school in some states, or they can do some additional training.
Scope of Practice: The scope of practice for naturopathic doctors varies depending on the regulations in each jurisdiction. In general, NDs are trained to:
- Prescribe natural therapies such as nutritional supplements, herbal remedies, and homeopathic medicines.
- Prescribe prescription medications, including some, but not limited to, controlled substances.
- Provide dietary counseling and lifestyle interventions tailored to individual health needs.
- Provide Primary Care, such as, performing physical exams, administering vaccinations, ordering laboratory tests,
- Offer acupuncture.
- They can use detoxification protocols and intravenous (IV) nutrient therapy into treatment plans.
- Utilize mind-body techniques like meditation, mindfulness, and relaxation exercises
In January 2022, the recognition of naturopathic doctors (NDs) and the extent of their scope of practice vary significantly from state to state within the United States. Here's an overview of states where NDs are recognized and their scope of practice:
Licensed States: In these states, naturopathic doctors are licensed to practice independently and have a broad scope of practice, including diagnosis, treatment, and prescription of medications and natural remedies within their scope. Some states may have specific restrictions or additional requirements.
-California: NDs are licensed and regulated by the California Naturopathic Medicine Committee. They have a comprehensive scope of practice, including the prescription of certain medications.
-Washington: NDs are licensed and regulated by the Washington State Department of Health. They have a limited formulary for prescription medications.
Unlicensed States (for example, Georgia and Virginia): In states where naturopathic medicine is not regulated, NDs have to work as healthcare consultants or working alongside other licensed healthcare providers, like MDs. The scope of practice in these states may be more limited, and NDs may not have the authority to diagnose, treat, or prescribe medications independently.
Pros:Naturopathic doctors utilize natural and holistic therapies, which may have fewer side effects compared to conventional medications. These therapies can complement conventional treatments, especially if they are collaborating with an MD.
If Naturopathic doctors work collaboratively, it can offer complementary care options to patients, which can provide patients with treatment modalities and perspectives beyond conventional medicine. This can be particularly beneficial for patients who are a bit apprehensive to traditional medicine for whatever reason.
Naturopathic medicine emphasizes preventive care and strategies to promote health and prevent disease. So they try to catch underlying imbalances and risk factors early, and see patients multiple times a week, which can help patients reduce their risk of developing chronic illnesses and improve their overall quality of life. By seeing a patient this frequently, it promotes stronger doctor-patient relationships and improves patient satisfaction.
Cons:
Lack of Regulation and Standardization: Naturopathic medicine is not regulated to the same extent as conventional medicine, and there may be variability in the education, training, and qualifications of naturopathic doctors. This lack of regulation and standardization can raise concerns about the quality and safety of naturopathic care.
Limited Scientific Evidence: Some naturopathic treatments lack rigorous scientific evidence supporting their efficacy and safety. Without robust clinical research, it can be challenging to assess the effectiveness of certain naturopathic interventions and differentiate between evidence-based practices and unproven therapies.
Potential for Harmful Practices: In some cases, naturopathic doctors may recommend treatments or interventions that have the potential to be harmful, particularly if they lack scientific support or are based on unfounded beliefs. Patients may be at risk of receiving ineffective or unsafe treatments without proper oversight and regulation.
Delayed Access to Conventional Care: So if a patient relies solely on naturopathic care, it may delay access to conventional medical treatments that are necessary for managing serious or life-threatening conditions
Cost and Insurance Coverage: Naturopathic services may not be covered by health insurance plans, or coverage may be limited compared to conventional medical services. This lack of insurance coverage can make naturopathic care inaccessible to some patients, particularly those with limited financial resources.
This information is provided to increase your knowledge on this topic, it is not intended to convince you to go against or support naturopathic medicine. Our goal is to inform you and you can draw your own conclusions about it. It is important to educate ourselves on this topic because naturopathic doctors are rising in California and we may encounter them in our future practices.
________________________________
Conclusion: Now we conclude episode number 166, “Naturopathic Medicine Insights.” Future Dr. Luong explained that naturopathic doctors receive training in naturopathic medical schools and receive a degree before they sit for a board exam. Many NDs may be working in outpatient primary care or even in hospital care. Dr. Arreaza shared his opinion about the pros and cons of having naturopathic medicine available for patients.
This week we thank Hector Arreaza and Teresa Luong. Audio editing by Adrianne Silva.
Even without trying, every night you go to bed a little wiser. Thanks for listening to Rio Bravo qWeek Podcast. We want to hear from you, send us an email at RioBravoqWeek@clinicasierravista.org, or visit our website riobravofmrp.org/qweek. See you next week!
Links: