Naturopathic Physicians Are Primary Care Providers

Doctors of naturopathic medicine (NDs) are trained as primary care providers and, as such, their scope of practice may include...

• Nutrition
• Botanical medicine
• Physical medicine
• Homeopathy
• Physical and clinical diagnosis
• Laboratory diagnosis and diagnostic imaging
• Emergency medicine
• Psychology
• Pharmacology
• Minor surgery
• Acupuncture and Oriental medicine*

*Included in scope of practice in some states and provinces.

Naturopathic physicians learn to treat all aspects of family health and wellness, from pediatrics to geriatrics. They tailor their therapies to meet the individual needs of each patient, factoring in physical, social, emotional and spiritual aspects before prescribing a course of treatment. Because they view natural remedies as complementary as well as primary, naturopathic physicians cooperate with other medical professionals, referring patients to allopathic medical doctors, surgeons and other specialists whenever appropriate.