September 2002

WSJ Reports Increase in Licensed Naturopaths

New York (kaisernetwork.org) -

The Wall Street Journal ran a report recently that takes a look at the increasing number of states that are allowing naturopaths to prescribe drugs and perform procedures such as minor surgery and childbirth. Traditionally, naturopaths have focused on caring for patients by emphasizing vitamins, herbs, and other “natural” treatments.

The WSJ reported in the Aug. 22 article that the growing prevalence of naturopaths “reflects increasing frustration with conventional medicine.”

For example, half of cancer patients have used alternative therapies, and sales of dietary supplements have increased 28% over the past five years. Hospitals also are beginning to use more licensed naturopaths. Memorial Sloan-Kettering Cancer Center of New York and Beth Israel Deaconess Medical Center in Boston have integrated their facilities with naturopaths.

In response to the increasing popularity, 12 states now license naturopaths, and seven additional states reportedly are considering legislation that would allow licensing. The WSJ reports that states are creating special boards, typically consisting of naturopaths and sometimes medical doctors, to license naturopaths.

To obtain a license in some states, naturopaths must graduate from a four-year naturopathic school, pass a licensing exam, and undergo continuing training. “We are well-suited to anything short of emergency room trauma and sophisticated surgical procedures,” Michael Traub, president of the American Association of Naturopathic Physicians, said.

Despite the growing prominence of naturopaths, the WSJ reports the practice remains controversial. While some doctors says naturopaths should complement other types of healthcare, some state medical associations have attempted to block licensing efforts, and critics say that naturopathic medical schools do not prepare students to recognize the difference between health-care emergencies and minor problems.

“Naturopaths should not be the coordinator of care,” Richard Roberts, board chair of the American Academy of Family Physicians, said, adding, “There’s a world of difference [compared with physicians] in terms of training, the ongoing education, the day-to-day work. It is like having the flight attendants fly the plane.”

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