What type of education and training do Naturopathic Doctors receive?
Naturopathic doctors require minimum 3 years pre-med undergraduate education, plus 4 years of full-time study at an approved college of naturopathic medicine. Naturopathic doctors obtain comprehensive and rigorous training in an educational structure similar to that of medical doctors but also study traditional natural therapeutics emphasizing lifestyle changes, disease prevention, and optimal wellness. With this said, and in line with treating the whole person, NDs are recognized as primary healthcare physicians by the British Columbia government. They perform physical examinations, laboratory testing, gynecological exams, nutritional and dietary assessments, metabolic analysis, and allergy testing. The four-year program incorporates basic medical science courses, clinical sciences and naturopathic therapies, as well as problem-based approaches to health issues, and 2000 hours of supervised clinical experience. Following the completion of their program, NDs must successfully complete
