Naturopathic Doctors are state-licensed physicians in certain states, including California, trained to diagnose and manage a wide range of health conditions in a primary-care setting. Like MDs and DOs, they receive medical education in the basic and clinical sciences, but they also receive additional training in nutrition and non-pharmaceutical therapies.

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NDs combine conventional diagnostics with lifestyle-based and natural therapies, and may prescribe medications when appropriate. Their approach emphasizes supporting overall health and addressing contributing factors to illness while coordinating care with other healthcare providers.

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Education and Training

Naturopathic Doctors attend accredited four-year postgraduate medical programs. Their training includes:

• Two years of biomedical sciences

• Clinical sciences across medical specialties

• Supervised clinical training

• Board examinations

NDs are educated in standard medical sciences so they can collaborate with and refer to MDs, DOs, and specialists when needed. They also receive training in additional therapeutic approaches such as clinical nutrition, botanical medicine, lifestyle counseling, and other non-invasive therapies.

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ND vs MD Training Focus

Both MDs and NDs study core medical sciences and clinical medicine.
The primary differences are emphasis and career pathway:

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• MDs/DOs: Greater focus on pathology, hospital-based care, surgery, and residency specialization

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• NDs: Greater focus on physiology, prevention, and non-invasive treatment approaches

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After medical school, MDs typically complete hospital residencies and specialize.
NDs complete extensive clinical rotations (at least ~1,500 hours) and generally practice as outpatient primary-care-style practitioners, with some pursuing additional certifications (e.g., naturopathic oncology).

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Role in Care

NDs commonly coordinate care by:

• Referring to medical specialists when necessary

• Supporting lifestyle and nutritional interventions

• Monitoring progress and adjusting treatment

• Working alongside other healthcare providers

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Their scope and practice authority vary by state law.