Naturopathic medicine and conventional medicine differ in several ways. First, naturopathic doctors have the luxury of spending much more time with their patients than conventional doctors typically do.
This allows naturopathic doctors to really get to know their patients and learn about all aspects of their lives. It also gives naturopathic doctors time to educate patients about their health and about the lifestyle and dietary changes that will be beneficial to them, something conventional doctors rarely have time for in the current healthcare system.
Second, naturopathic doctors and conventional doctors have different training. In addition to training in the use of prescription medications, minor surgery, and IV therapy, naturopathic doctors are highly trained in the use of counseling, botanical medicines, homeopathic medicines, nutrition, nutritional supplements, physical medicine including naturopathic spinal manipulation, and hydrotherapy.
Conventional doctors may take courses in complementary and alternative medicines in conventional medical schools, but they do not have the same depth of training in this area.
An additional difference in training is that conventional doctors are required to complete a residency following their medical education while no such requirement exists for naturopathic doctors. Although the number of naturopathic residency positions offered is growing, the funds are simply lacking to establish enough residency positions to make this a requirement for licensure at this time. Naturopathic doctors are, however, required to complete a minimum of 2 years of supervised clinical training prior to graduation from an accredited naturopathic medical school.
Lastly, naturopathic medicine and conventional medicine differ in philosophy. Naturopathic doctors focus on helping their patients improve their bodies’ function and their overall health so that they no longer experience symptoms, while most conventional medicines work by suppressing symptoms.
Naturopathic doctors also take on the role of teacher and guide in relationship to their patients, encouraging each client’s personal responsibility for their own health and wellness. By contrast, in the conventional medical model, patients expect medications and surgeries to do the work of healing for them.