Naturopathic doctors are clinically trained primary care physicians who have a minimum of seven years higher education with an undergraduate BSc degree or equivalent and a graduate level four-year Doctorate naturopathic medical degree from one of six recognized naturopathic medical schools in North America that has been accredited by the Council on Naturopathic Medical Education (CNME). The CNME is the only government recognized accrediting body for naturopathic medical institutions in Canada and the United States.

Naturopathic doctors are educated in all the same biomedical sciences as conventional medical school, but treatments and clinical training involves holistic and natural non-toxic approaches. A comprehensive and intensive course load includes 4100 total hours of health sciences, clinical sciences and 1200 hours of clinical training with patients and 300 preceptor hours under the supervision of a licensed naturopathic physician.

To qualify for government regulated licensing naturopathic students must complete and pass rigorous North American standardized board exams known as the Naturopathic Physicians Licensing Examinations (NPLEX). 

Naturopathic medicine is a federally recognized and provincial or state regulated healthcare profession within Canada and the United States. Throughout North America, naturopathic doctors are legally recognized as primary care physicians. In Canada naturopathic medicine is provincially regulated in the provinces of British Columbia, Alberta, Saskatchewan, Manitoba and Ontario.

All of the other provinces and territories are currently actively engaged in the process of seeking regulation. British Columbia naturopathic doctors are federally regulated by the Health Professions Act, the Health Professions General Regulation, and the Naturopathic Physicians Regulation. The College of Naturopathic Physicians of British Columbia is the BC provincial regulatory body of naturopathic medicine that oversees the profession. 

Yes, naturopathic medicine is covered by most extended health insurance plans dependant on your coverage. Check with your provider for more details.