Naturopathic physicians: holistic primary care and integrative medicine specialists

J Diet Suppl. 2011 Dec;8(4):369-77. doi: 10.3109/19390211.2011.623148.

Abstract

The use of Complimentary and Alternative Medicine (CAM) is increasing in the United States; there is a need for physician level practitioners who possess extensive training in both CAM and conventional medicine. Naturopathic physicians possess training that allows integration of modern scientific knowledge and the age-old wisdom of natural healing techniques. Naturopathic philosophy provides a framework to implement CAM in concert with conventional therapies. The naturopathic physician's expertise in both conventional medicine and CAM allows a practice style that provides excellent care through employing conventional and CAM modalities while utilizing modern research and evidence-based medicine.

MeSH terms

  • Clinical Competence
  • Complementary Therapies*
  • Delivery of Health Care
  • Evidence-Based Medicine
  • Health Services Needs and Demand*
  • Holistic Health
  • Humans
  • Integrative Medicine*
  • Naturopathy*
  • Practice Patterns, Physicians'*
  • Primary Health Care / methods*
  • Specialization*
  • United States