Dear Patients and Friends,
As you may know, I am currently serving as the Immediate Past President of the Minnesota Association of Naturopathic Physicians (MnANP).
The MnANP is a statewide organization whose members hold or are qualified to hold, an N.D. (Naturopathic Doctor) license in one of 15 licensed states. Minnesota does not license N.D.s. You may not realize how this affects you as a patient and consumer. For example, did you know that anyone in Minnesota, regardless of education or training, is able to call themselves a naturopath?
And, the highly qualified naturopaths that did attend one of six board certified naturopathic medical colleges, are prohibited from practicing to the full extent of their training, because the State of Minnesota does not offer licensure.
Patients of naturopathic physicians in licensed states enjoy the benefits of their N.D.s being able to practice all the treatment modalities that they were taught in school. These patients receive appropriate diagnosis and lab work as well as a variety of treatments such as I.V. nutrients, spinal manipulation, minor surgery, and others you are most familiar with, like botanical medicine, homeopathy, and nutritional guidance.
My colleagues and I have worked hard over the years towards the goal of achieving licensure in Minnesota. In April, 2005, we proudly introduced a licensing bill into legislature. However, when the session ended in May, the bill was not heard. We intend to keep the momentum going. We want and need your help to raise the awareness of the legislators.
This year, we introduced House bill HF 1724 and its companion Senate bill SF1520 for Naturopathic Registration. Now is the time for Patient Advocates and all of our supporters to join together in support of HF 1724, and make registration for naturopaths a reality in 2008. Here's how you can help: Go to:
http://capwiz.com/naturopathic/state/main/?state=MN&view=myofficials
Enter your zip code in Action Alert and sign-up to the E-alert list. It's that easy!
Use the letter writing tool to contact state representatives and the media. Let them know why passage of this bill is important to you and healthcare in Minnesota.
By joining the MnANP E-Alert List, you will be notified via e-mail about updates on legislation and when we need your help to contact your legislators.
Thank you for your continued support over the years and your future involvement. As naturopathic doctors, our voices are few, but as patients and constituents our voices are many.
Yours in Health,
Helen C. Healy, N.D.
