Re: naturopathic training

Posted by Dr. J.D. McCoy on 03/31/03 at 07:50 PM

I am not against distance learning, but I think that is fair to make a distinction between the training/qualifications of a 4 year graduate vs. distance learning. The ability to do proper physical examination and differential diagnosis requires clinical experience and patient contact- regardless of the treatment modality used. Furthermore, training in pharmacology is imperative for assessment of potential drug-nutrient-botanical interactions. Many of the NDs that I have worked with (myself included) could have taken the allopathic route, but chose to practice a more natural, real medicine. The \"real\" US medical schools include naturopathic medical schools. Many MDs/DOs (when they learn about naturopathic medicine) appreciate the fact that NDs have completed a very thorough clinical training and board examination (when I was studying for my clinical NPLEX , I studied with a couple medical students- MD program- and they were blown away with the scope and breadth of what we had to know). We need more naturopathic-minded MDs! We also need to understand the training required to provide comprehensive and safe care for patients. Finally, I have never seen myself as inferior (in fact, I find myself correcting mistakes made by other physicians more and more often)- the more honest statement is that MDs see NDs as inferior. My experience has taught me that the majority of NDs lack the ego that many MDs have (not all, but many). Much of that is because of our training and the value placed on fostering the doctor-patient relationship. Just my two cents!