Naturopathy is an age old medicine that utilizes natural healing modalities to assist the body's own intrinsic vital force to heal itself. Naturopathy goes beyond treatment of symptoms, and focuses on prevention and optimization of health. Naturopaths strongly believe in treating each person as a unique and complex individual who has the right to make educated choices regarding their own healthcare.

After attaining their four year undergraduate degree, Naturopathic physicians attend a residential four year doctorate program in naturopathic medicine. The first two years of basic science training are similar to allopathic medical schools. The final two years consist of clinical training, didactic classes in gynecology, gastroenterology, pediatrics, oncology, etc., as well as courses in the naturopathic modalities of botanical medicine, homeopathy, physical medicine, counseling, and nutrition. Post-graduate residencies are optional, but are required for licensure in some states. As of January 2006, Naturopathic Physicians are currently licensed in 14 states, the District of Columbia, 2 U.S. territories, and 4 Canadian provinces. Licensure efforts are underway in almost every other state.

Naturopathic Physicians were licensed in the State of Florida until 1959, when our Board of Licensure was dissolved. Since 1959, Naturopathic Physicians have not been licensed in the State of Florida, and therefore cannot practice as primary care physicians or receive insurance reimbursement. We are not allowed by law to diagnose or treat specific ailments. In Florida, Naturopathic Physicians cannot prescribe medications or order blood tests, or imaging; even though Naturopathic physicians are fully trained in all these areas, as well as in minor surgical office procedures.

Unfortunately, when there is no licensure of a profession, there is no regulation. In Florida, anyone may call themselves a naturopath regardless of their education. Those that have attended one of the four accredited naturopathic medical schools may not call themselves physicians. For your safety, please know the education of the healthcare provider you choose.

Each year a number of hard working, dedicated individuals lobby in Tallahassee to reinstate Florida licensure for naturopathic physicians. If you would like to help this cause or to find out more about naturopathic medicine, please visit www.naturopathic.org, www.bastyr.edu, or speak with Dr. Clements.