How is my Naturopathic doctor different from my M.D.?
Naturopathic doctors receive the same medical training as MDs - they attend accredited four-year medical schools with clinical rotations. In addition to learning biomedical sciences and pharmacology, they also learn alternative therapies such as nutrition, homeopathy, counseling, botanical medicine, and orthomolecular medicine. The state of Texas does not allow NDs to prescribe pharmaceutical medications at this time, although it is legal in other states.
What medical conditions can a Naturopath care for?
Naturopathic Doctors can care for any condition which does not immediately require surgery or which is not a life-threatening emergency.
Can Naturopathic medicine be used in conjunction with other forms of medicine?
Yes! Naturopathic medicine works very well when used in conjunction with other forms of medicine including pharmaceutical drugs, acupuncture and chiropractic care. Your naturopathic doctor will custom-tailor your health plan and will be able to avoid negative interactions with other therapies you may be using. In addition naturopathic can help to counteract the side effects of more invasive treatments such as chemotherapy.
How do I know if my ND is fully qualified?
Your ND should display a diploma from one of the four accredited schools and should be a member of the American Association of Naturopathic Physicians (or AANP). In addition, NDs should have (and display) a valid State License. For more information please contact the AANP at www.naturopathic.org or 1-866-538-2267.
Does Texas license Naturopaths?
The State of Texas does not license Naturopathic doctors at this time, neither do they regulate the use of the title “Naturopathic Doctor”. For this reason it is especially important in Texas to ensure that your N.D. is properly trained and holding an active license from a State which offers licensure. Lack of licensure does not prohibit the practice of Naturopathic medicine, but it does limit what your Naturopath can legally offer.
Can a Naturopathic Doctor be my primary care physician?
In states where Naturopathy is fully licensed, your Naturopath can also be your primary care physician. In Texas, you will need to have an additional primary care physician who is fully licensed such as an M.D.