Naturopathic Medicine and the Law
Naturopathic doctors (NDs) are health care providers who are experts in the intersection of conventional practice and natural therapies. NDs emphasize prevention, wellness and optimal health, and encourage individuals’ inherent self-healing process. The practice of naturopathic medicine includes modern and traditional, scientific and empirical methods; combining the wisdom of nature with the rigors of modern science.
In 2013, Colorado became the 17th state to provide legal recognition for NDs, along with the District of Columbia.
The law was a major victory for the field of naturopathic medicine, signaling a growing interest among lawmakers to support prevention-focused health care.
You can be a part of the movement to allow Naturopathic Doctors to practice in accordance with the scope and rigor of their training. Find your legislator and write/call/email them with our 2024 Talking Points.
2024 Talking Points
NDs have a full, four-year, post-graduate medical school training including 75 hours of pharmacology.
NDs must pass rigorous licensure and board exams. Colorado NDs are required to participate in 25 hours of ongoing continuing education annually.
NDs provide preventative care and integrative pain management across
communities, and especially in rural Colorado where it may be the only health care option in a small community.
Colorado NDs and MDs refer patients to each other, which helps with costs and improves patients’ well-being.
What We Need
Legislation to clarify the ND Practice Act to incorporate agreements that allow the Director of Professions at DORA to change the ND formulary by rule making, based upon recommendations of the ND Advisory Committee.