Re: what exactly are naturopaths doing?

[Guest guest]

Naturopathic docs and Chiropractors consider themselves fully

qualified physicians and licensing in many states reflects that

reality. So,yes,they do gynecologic exams if they feel so compelled.

As a family practice/ER osteopathic physician since 1980 and with an

interest in holistic medicine, I have connected with lots of

different types of providers and find that the degree (DC,DO,MD,ND)

often does not reflect one's skills or the quality of care

delivered. I find the same thing applies to physician assistants

and nurse practitioners.

One concern I have regarding the non DO/MD providers is that they

often are not well regulated. In Alaska, where I practice, the

medical board is quite stringent in it's oversight and 'sanctions'

physicians for fairly minor infractions. The naturopaths and

chiropractors are only regulated by the occupational licensing

statutes and have no significant oversight. Similarly, the nursing

board provides oversight for the nurse practitioners (they are not

practicing medicine; rather, advanced nursing) and seem to rarely

discipline any members. Consequently, there is wide disparity in

how various professions are held to standards and it is often up to

a particular provider's integrity to practice responsibly.

The public has no understanding of all this and is essentially at

the mercy of the marketplace. Maverick MD's and DO's are often

reigned in by their state boards, this is not as common with some of

the other professions.