Physician Amber Figueroa critiques naturopathic care following sister's cancer death

The Alaska Legislature's House Health and Social Services Committee convened on May 13, 2025, to discuss pressing issues in healthcare, particularly the role of naturopathic doctors in the state's medical landscape. The meeting featured poignant testimonies from healthcare professionals, highlighting the challenges faced by patients and the healthcare system.

Dr. Amber Figueroa, a family practice physician from Fairbanks, shared a personal story about her sister's tragic battle with colon cancer. She emphasized the limitations of naturopathic care, recounting how her sister's primary care provider, a naturopath, failed to adequately address her symptoms over two years. Dr. Figueroa argued that patients who choose naturopathy often seek natural remedies rather than prescription medications, which can lead to critical delays in receiving necessary medical interventions. She expressed concern that without proper training in Western medicine, naturopaths may not effectively navigate patients through the healthcare system, potentially endangering lives.

Following Dr. Figueroa's testimony, Gene Theriault presented a statement from Dr. Sean Higgins, an emergency room physician in Anchorage. Dr. Higgins reported a growing trend of patients visiting emergency rooms for primary care issues, such as medication refills and chronic condition management, rather than true emergencies. He estimated that about 30% of ER visits are for non-emergency concerns, which strains resources and increases wait times for patients in need of urgent care. Dr. Higgins advocated for allowing naturopathic doctors to practice within their training scope, suggesting that this could alleviate pressure on emergency services and improve patient access to primary care.

The discussions underscored the ongoing debate about the integration of naturopathic medicine into Alaska's healthcare system. As the state grapples with a shortage of primary care providers, the testimonies highlighted the need for a balanced approach that ensures patient safety while expanding access to care. The committee's deliberations will likely influence future policies regarding the practice and regulation of naturopathic medicine in Alaska.