Naturopathic doctors first earn a bachelor’s degree and complete a range of science prerequisites. They then attend an accredited four-year naturopathic medical school, with the option to complete a residency afterward. At naturopathic medical school they are trained as primary care doctors.

Scope of practice is determined by each state. For example, in Washington, naturopathic doctors are considered physicians and have the authority to prescribe pharmaceuticals. In my home state of Kansas, they are licensed but not recognized as physicians and cannot prescribe medications, which limits their ability to serve as primary care doctors. In some states, naturopathic doctors are not licensed at all, making it illegal to call yourself a doctor or practice medicine as an ND.

Naturopathic medical school trains students in a wide range of modalities, including, but not limited to, pharmaceuticals, herbal medicine, physical medicine, hydrotherapy, nutrition, counseling, homeopathy, IV nutrient therapy, and biofeedback. After graduation, most naturopathic doctors gravitate toward a select group of these therapies.

Some naturopathic doctors accept insurance, while others choose not to. Insurance companies often reimburse naturopathic doctors at lower rates than conventionally trained providers, so many NDs opt for a cash-based practice to earn a sustainable income. Whether an ND can accept insurance also depends on their scope of practice, which is defined by the state they practice in.

Naturopathic medicine takes a whole-person approach, meaning it considers the physical, mental, emotional, social, and environmental factors that contribute to health. Instead of just treating symptoms, naturopathic doctors aim to identify and address the root cause of illness so that true, lasting healing can occur.

Naturopathic doctors are not in competition with conventionally trained physicians, in fact they often work alongside them. Each offers a unique perspective, and when combined, patients benefit from more comprehensive, personalized care. The goal is collaboration, not separation.