Training
Regulated naturopathic doctors are required to complete 3 years of premedical
studies at a recognized university. Then they attend a recognized college
of naturopathic medicine for four years. In the first two years of naturopathic
college students are trained in the basic medical sciences of anatomy,
physiology, biochemistry, histology, immunology, pharmacology, pathology
and diagnostic skills. These diagnostic skills include physical examination,
laboratory testing and imaging studies such as X-rays. During the four
years they are at the college they learn the specific therapies of nutrition,
homeopathy, Chinese Medicine and acupuncture, counseling, botanical medicine,
hydrotherapy, and spinal manipulations. The final year of schooling comprises
of 1,500 hours of seeing patients under the supervision of a experienced
naturopathic doctor.
Naturopathic doctors have the benefit of this wide body of knowledge to
provide a comprehensive plan using various treatments together for a synergistic
effect.
Regulation
Naturopathic medicine is regulated under provincial law in British Columbia,
Manitoba, Ontario and Saskatchewan.
The Board of Directors of Drugless Therapy - Naturopathy maintains a list
of all naturopathic doctors who have met the educational requirements
and passed the provincial board examinations.
Regulation protects the public by ensuring proper credentials and by maintaining
standards of practice. The licensing board has the authority to grant
and revoke licenses.
Other licensed professionals in Ontario include doctors, dentists, chiropractors,
physiotherapists and midwives.