Are ND’s Anti-Pharmaceutical?
BySarah Axtell, ND •April 22, 2025
Think you have to choose between natural and conventional medicine? Think again!
As Naturopathic Doctors (NDs), we’ve received rigorous training in both pharmaceuticals and natural therapies.
We consider:
- Your unique needs and health goals
- Potential interactions between meds, herbs, and supplements
- Side effects and how to mitigate them
Currently, naturopathic doctors (NDs) in Wisconsin are restricted from prescribing essential medications that align with our scope of practice, despite our extensive education and training. In fact, graduates of accredited four-year doctoral programs, like myself, complete over 4,100 hours of education, including hundreds of hours specifically in pharmacology and pharmacotherapeutics—mirroring the medical doctor curriculum.
I am proud to share that I recently had the opportunity to meet with senators and representatives at the capitol, educating them on the safety and efficacy of naturopathic medicine as we push for prescribing authority. I am confident that with your support, we can make a meaningful difference in the healthcare landscape of Wisconsin.
So, what can you do to help? If you live or work in Wisconsin, please sign up on the WNDA’s website https://wisconsin-nd.org/supporters to receive emails. By doing so, you’ll be alerted when it’s time to send a quick email to your legislator showing your support for this legislation. Our goal is to sign up over 2,000 people before the end of April, so please share this information with your family and friends as well.
15 states already grant NDs prescribing rights, allowing NDs to provide the most comprehensive care. Let’s make WI the next state to grant NDs prescribing rights!
Let’s stop polarizing medicine and utilize the best of both worlds! This is the INTEGRATIVE approach.
Editor’s Note: The information in this article is intended for your educational use only. Always seek the advice of your physician or other qualified health practitioners with any questions you may have regarding a medical condition and before undertaking any diet, supplement, fitness, or other health program.