During the recent California Board of Naturopathic Medicine meeting on September 29, 2025, members voiced urgent concerns regarding patient safety and the limitations of current regulations affecting healthcare delivery. A significant focus was placed on the ongoing issues surrounding the formulary, which restricts the ability of naturopathic doctors to prescribe necessary medications in emergency situations. This limitation has raised alarms among board members, who emphasized that it poses a clear risk to public safety, especially in light of California's severe primary care shortage.

Board members highlighted the challenges faced by patients in accessing timely primary care, with reports of long wait times for appointments. One member shared their personal experience of scheduling an appointment that was a month and a half out, illustrating the pressing need for more accessible healthcare options. The discussion underscored the critical role that naturopathic doctors could play in alleviating some of these pressures if given the authority to prescribe a broader range of medications.

Additionally, the board addressed the need for changes to continuing education (CE) requirements, noting that current statutes do not allow for directed CE. This limitation was recognized as problematic, as it hinders the ability of practitioners to stay updated on essential skills and knowledge that could enhance patient care.

The meeting concluded with a commitment from board members to continue advocating for these changes, emphasizing that addressing the formulary and CE issues is vital for improving patient safety and healthcare access in California. As the board prepares for future discussions, the focus remains on ensuring that regulations evolve to meet the needs of both practitioners and the communities they serve.