Naturopathic medicine:
frequently asked questions
Stillpoint Family Health Services is a full service facility designed to meet the diverse needs required for your individual health and well-being. Dr. Michael Lipelt has over 30 years experience as a naturopathic dental and healthcare practitioner.
What is Naturopathic medicine?
It's the study of natural health care options. The principles of care in naturopathic medicine are:
- First do no harm.
- The healing power of nature.
- Treat the cause.
- Physician as teacher.
- Individualize treatment
- Everything is connected.
- Naturopathic doctors are experts in natural medicine.
What's the education of Naturopathic doctors?
Naturopathic doctors are educated at 4 year medical schools. The education includes many of the allopathic medical school courses with an emphasis on diet and lifestyle. Naturopathic doctors are trained as family practitioners. Many naturopathic doctors pursue post graduate internships and specialize in particular areas of interest.
Where are the Naturopathic medical schools?
There are 4 accredited Naturopathic medical schools in the U.S.
- Bastyr University in Seattle, WA.. Bastyr will open a Naturopathic Medical School in Los Angeles in the near future.
- National College of Naturopathic Medicine, Portland, Oregon
- Southwest College of Naturopathic Medicine, Tempe, AZ
- Bridgeport University School of Naturopathic Medicine, Bridgeport, Connecticut
- There are two Naturopathic Medical Schools in Canada; Toronto and Vancouver, BC
What about licensure for Naturopathic doctors in California?
In 2003 the Naturopathic medical practice act was enacted in California. Under the law, Naturopathic doctors are considered primary care providers who can diagnose and treat disease.
Within the scope of practice naturopathic doctors may order lab tests and interpret the results for their patients.
What does the future hold for Naturopathic medicine?
It's a bright future. More and more consumers of medical care are asking for doctors who spend more time with them. Consumers are asking for doctors who address the underlying cause/s for their condition/s not just focusing on treating the symptom/s. Consumers are yearning for information/education on diet and lifestyle and less invasive therapies so that they can better take responsibility for their health. Finally, due to the increased interest and demand for naturopathic doctors there is an abundance of naturopathic medical school applicants each year.