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Recognizing Naturopathic Doctors

Under a new state law, naturopaths with degrees from accredited medical programs can call themselves naturopathic doctors. The law will also expand their scope of practice.

March 25, 2009 at 8:12PM

Given Leslie Vilensky's interest in health and holistic care, naturopathic medicine was a logical career choice. "It was congruent with how I wanted to live," says Vilensky, who is president of the Minnesota Association of Naturopathic Physicians (www.mnanp.org).

At her clinic in New Prague, Vilensky combines safe and effective traditional therapies with current advances in modern medicine. She focuses on family healthcare, women's health issues and gastrointestinal health.

Focus On Healing

Naturopathic doctors focus on the body's ability to heal itself. They support individuals by teaching them how to make better lifestyle choices. Among the modalities they use are diet and nutritional supplements, herbal medicine and homeopathy.

In some cases, they refer patients to other practitioners like massage therapists and chiropractors. Naturopaths also work collaboratively with M.D.s.

Education

Like M.D.s, naturopathic doctors complete a four-year undergraduate degree with a pre-med focus. This is followed by a four-year graduate-level degree which includes courses in the biomedical sciences, as well as clinical nutrition, physical medicine, homeopathic and herbal medicine, psychology and lifestyle counseling.

A naturopath's scope of practice is determined by state law. For example, in Washington, where Vilensky is licensed, naturopaths can diagnose, prescribe certain medications, do intravenous therapy and perform minor surgery.

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Legal Recognition

Naturopaths are not licensed in Minnesota. But they have been permitted to practice legally since 2000. A new law that will go into effect in July allows practitioners with degrees from accredited medical programs to call themselves naturopathic doctors.

They will now be able to do physical exams, order X-rays and lab tests, and assess and treat patients. They will not, however, be able to prescribe medication or do minor surgery.

"We're happy with the new law because it allows us to do more of what we're trained to do," Vilensky says.

Nancy Giguere is a freelance writer from St. Paul who has written about healthcare since 1995.

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