Becoming a Naturopathic Physician
A Naturopathic Physician identifies the causes of illness and uses the body’s natural ability and resistance power to heal it. These professionals generally use herbal medicines, exercise therapy, meditation techniques, massage and nutrition to keep the patient fit and safe. They also focus on prevention of illness. They work in stressful environments with utmost responsibilities and dedication.
Naturopathic medicine is blend of wisdom of nature and modern scientific methods. The Naturopathic Physicians are trained to address the disease as well as the dysfunction at the level of body, mind and spirit. They care for patients of all ages and genders.
Education Requirements:
- Obtain a Bachelor’s Degree: Aspiring Naturopathic Physicians must earn a Bachelor’s Degree in any field. But the coursework must include chemistry, biochemistry, anatomy, physiology, cellular biology and lab experience. Duration of the bachelor’s degree program is four years.
- Professional Medical Degree: A professional medical degree after getting the bachelor’s degree, may be an added advantage in many states that look beyond the entry level degree education. A professional degree in any of the subjects such as Medicine, Chiropractic, Oriental or traditional Chinese medicine, Osteopathic medicine or another recognized discipline will boost the profiles of aspiring Naturopathic Physicians.
Key Challenges:
- Utilizing the available natural resources and review new toxic therapies
- Look beyond the common symptoms to detect the underlying cause
- Educate patients on how to achieve and maintain good health
- Focus on overall health improvement and prevention of diseases.
Salary & Job Outlook: The career in naturopathic medicine, remains bright in the United States. The average salary for these professional was $85,000 per year in May 2012. Some experienced Naturopathic Physicians may earn up to $200,000 per year.