Frequently Asked Questions

How is naturopathic medicine different from conventional medicine?

Naturopathic medicine and conventional medicine differ in several ways. First, naturopathic doctors have the luxury of spending much more time with their clients than conventional doctors typically do. This allows naturopathic doctors to really get to know their clients and learn about all aspects of their lives. It also gives naturopathic doctors time to teach clients about their health and about the lifestyle and dietary changes that will be beneficial to them, something conventional doctors rarely have time for in the current healthcare system.

Second, naturopathic doctors and conventional doctors have different training. In addition to training in the use of prescription medications, minor surgery, and IV therapy, naturopathic doctors are thoroughly trained in the use of counseling, botanical medicines, homeopathic medicines, nutrition, nutritional supplements, physical medicine including naturopathic spinal manipulation, and hydrotherapy. Conventional doctors may take courses in complementary and alternative medicines in conventional medical schools, but they do not have the same depth of training in this area. An additional difference in training is that conventional doctors are required to complete a residency following their medical education while no such requirement exists for naturopathic doctors. Although the number of naturopathic residency positions offered is growing, the funds are simply lacking to establish enough residency positions to make this a requirement for licensure at this time. Naturopathic doctors are, however, required to complete a minimum of 2 years of supervised clinical training prior to graduation from an accredited naturopathic medical school.

Third, there is a difference in the legal rights of naturopathic doctors and conventional doctors which varies among states. While conventional doctors enjoy licensure and regulation in every state, naturopathic doctors may currently be licensed in 16 states and the District of Columbia.

Lastly, naturopathic medicine and conventional medicine differ in philosophy.  Naturopathic doctors focus on helping their clients improve their overall health so that they no longer experience symptoms, while most conventional medicines work by suppressing symptoms. Naturopathic doctors also take on the role of teacher and guide in relationship to their clients, encouraging each client’s personal responsibility for their own health and wellness. By contrast, in the conventional medical model, patients expect medications and surgeries to do the work of healing for them.

How are naturopathic medicine and conventional medicine alike?

Naturopathic medicine and conventional medicine may be quite different, but they are also very much alike in several ways. The academic training of both naturopathic and conventional doctors is very similar. Both are thoroughly trained in the same basic sciences and physical, clinical, and laboratory diagnostic techniques. In many states that license naturopathic doctors, they are able to perform physical exams including annual gynecological exams and physicals and to order any manner of laboratory or diagnostic imaging test, similarly to conventional doctors. In states where naturopathic doctors are licensed they are also able to diagnose and treat disease just as conventional doctors can. Both naturopathic doctors and conventional doctors are trained in the use of prescription medications and minor surgery, and again, in many states that offer naturopathic licensure, naturopathic doctors are able to prescribe medications and perform minor surgery. Both naturopathic doctors and conventional doctors are trained to refer to other practitioners as appropriate when a client’s problem is beyond the scope of their training.

What kinds of people or conditions can benefit from naturopathic medicine?

Anyone can benefit from naturopathic medicine! Whether you have been coping with a chronic health problem for years or you are generally feeling pretty good, naturopathic medicine has something to offer you.  Naturopathic doctors typically work with several populations of people:  those with complex problems that have been difficult for conventional doctors to diagnose and treat, those who have been treated with conventional medicines but are not experiencing relief from their health problems, and those who have tried natural medicines on their own or at the advice of a health care provider without success. Since naturopathic doctors focus on individuals and helping clients to optimize their health, the specific disease name assigned to an individual is far less important than who the person is and how they arrived where they are now. As a result, anyone with any health problem can benefit from naturopathic medicine.  Additionally, if you are already feeling good and taking good care of yourself, a naturopathic doctor can provide guidance to help you stay on the right track.

What is the difference between naturopathic medicine and homeopathy?

Naturopathic medicine is based on a unique philosophy of healing and encompasses the entire scope of natural medicines, including homeopathy.  Homeopathy is one type of natural medicine which is based on its own unique philosophy.  Please see the “Therapeutics” page for a complete description of homeopathy.

Is naturopathic medicine effective?

Yes. Naturopathic medicine has centuries of traditional and clinical use evidence for botanical medicine, homeopathy, and hydrotherapy. In addition, many studies in peer-reviewed  journals have provided support or validation for the use of lifestyle and dietary changes recommended by naturopathic doctors, and for the use of certain nutritional and botanical medicines.

Is naturopathic medicine safe?

Absolutely. In states that license naturopathic doctors, the safety record is excellent. The safety of naturopathic medicine is also evidenced by the very low medical malpractice insurance premiums naturopathic doctors pay in licensed states, which indicates that the likelihood of being injured through malpractice on the part of a naturopathic doctor is very low. Naturopathic doctors are well-trained experts in the safe use of natural medicines. Naturopathic medicine is safe for people of all ages from children through geriatric populations.

Do conventional medical schools teach naturopathic medicine?

No. Conventional medical schools may offer courses in complementary and alternative medicine, but they do not provide the same depth and scope of training in natural medicines as do naturopathic medical schools. They also do not teach the defining philosophy of naturopathic medicine.

Are naturopathic doctors opposed to conventional medicine, drugs, and surgery?

No. Naturopathic doctors respect conventional medicine and acknowledge that there is a time and place for the use of medications and surgery. Naturopathic doctors are opposed to invasive or suppressive therapies when lower force interventions are appropriate.

Does health insurance pay for naturopathic services?

Insurance carriers in Maryland do not pay for naturopathic services because Maryland does not license naturopathic doctors. Many insurance carriers in the United States do cover naturopathic medicine, and state legislatures in Alaska, Connecticut, Montana, Vermont, and Washington State have mandated insurance coverage for appropriate naturopathic medical services.

Is naturopathic medicine cost-effective?

Yes. The proactive and preventive approach of naturopathic medicine decreases the likelihood and severity of chronic diseases which require costly procedures and medications.