A naturopathic doctor is trained to be a primary care doctor* at a four-year graduate level accredited naturopathic medical university. The first two years of schooling parallel those of an MD and cover basic medical sciences and conventional diagnosis. The next two years are focused on clinical training utilizing naturopathic philosophy and therapeutics. After graduation, NDs must pass a national level board examination for licensure.
Naturopathic Doctors (NDs) use a variety of therapies to restore and maintain health including herbal medicine, clinical nutrition, homeopathy, hydrotherapy and lifestyle counseling. Naturopathic Doctors support the body's ability to heal with these natural therapeutics and by following the principles of naturopathic medicine:
- FIRST DO NO HARM
- FIND THE CAUSE
- SUPPORT THE HEALING POWER OF NATURE
- DOCTOR AS TEACHER
- TREAT THE WHOLE PERSON
- PREVENTATIVE MEDICINE
*In Massachusetts , it is recommended that all patients have a primary care physician who can order labs, prescribe drugs and facilitate hospital admission if necessary. ND's are not legally permitted to act in this capacity in Massachusetts at this time
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