In the past decade or so, healthcare has changed immensely. From legislation to technological advances, it’s definitely a “brave new world” in healthcare. It should come as no surprise that students are flocking to these careers and the schools that provide training in these areas. Healthcare is moving in a different direction when it comes to how a patient’s treatment is approached. Health services are now being delivered by a team of professionals instead of just one lead provider. Part of that team approach includes naturopathic doctors who can help treat a variety of issues. That’s why naturopathic medicine is a great option for those who want to have a direct impact on the health of others.
Naturopathic medicine continues to gain acceptance and recognition throughout the United States and Canada.
This trend in healthcare is largely due to the fact that Americans as a whole are beginning to turn a corner on their health and realize they need to make significant changes to their lifestyle. For instance, the CDC has recently reported that roughly 30 million Americans have diabetes, but another 84 million are “pre-diabetic”. As a result of this news, many people are looking to eat healthier and live more naturally, including seeking naturopathic options in healthcare.
As a sign that naturopathic medicine is growing, take the recent results of a survey of healthcare providers that showed “twenty-eight prominent health systems, hospitals, and cancer treatment centers now have one or more licensed naturopathic doctors on staff at their facilities”. Many states are now offering pathways for students of naturopathy to become fully licensed naturopathic doctors. For students who are interested in becoming a naturopathic doctor, the path is rigorous, and worthwhile.All AANMC member institutions have been accredited by regional accrediting agencies approved by the U.S. Department of Education.
In addition, all of the naturopathic medicinal programs have been accredited by the Council on Naturopathic Medical Education (CNME), the recognized accreditor for naturopathic medical programs in North America. Graduation from one of the six accredited naturopathic medical schools or a naturopathic medical school that is a candidate for accreditation guarantees eligibility to sit for the Naturopathic Physicians Licensing Examinations (NPLEX), the passage of which is required to obtain licensure.