What is the scope of practice of ND’s?
The scope of practice for naturopathic physicians varies depending on the state in which they are practicing. They are trained as primary care providers and, as such, their scope of practice may include nutritional science, natural hygiene, botanical medicine, naturopathic physical medicine, acupuncture, homeopathy, ayurvedic medicine, counseling, spirituality and health, minor surgery, methods of laboratory and clinical diagnosis, pharmacology, IV therapy, and natural childbirth and delivery. As primary care providers, ND’s may perform the same exams that your family doctor does including gynecology and uro-genital exams, prenatal exams, well baby exams, order lab tests and radiological studies, or prescribe pharmaceutical medicines when appropriate.
