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Is an ND a real doctor? I've heard both sides and I can't tell. Can a doctor help me?

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Richard’s Answer

An licensed ND has attended a four-year post graduate institution like an MD. However ND do not prescribe medication or perform surgery. Also and MD has completed at least a year of internship and usually a longer residency.

Be careful, in states without specific accreditation, some naturopaths callthemselves naturopathic doctors even though they haven't completed the schooling.

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Valerie’s Answer

A nautropathic doctor trains for 4 years after attending college, however it is not at a medical school. They study anatomy, physiology, pathology, microbiology, immunology and mainly focus on detailed natural therapies. They cannot safely perform minor procedures by themselves.

They do not need to do a residency, which a MD or DO does. There are only 16 states currently that license ND for medical practice. However, they are not a physicians, they need to be supervised by an MD or DO while writing prescriptions, just like a PA or NP.

However, there are a lot of bills being passed and legislature being looked at in regards to NDs. I hope that helps! There are some major differences between the two, but it does not mean NDs are not important or respected.
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