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Supporters ask Wyoming committee to study naturopathic doctor licensure
Summary
Advocates told the joint committee that licensure of naturopathic doctors would expand primary and preventative care, particularly in rural areas; supporters requested interim study after a related bill was tabled in the House Labor Committee.
Dr. Thea Marks, a licensed naturopathic physician and representative of the Wyoming Association of Naturopathic Physicians, asked the joint Labor, Health and Social Services Committee to approve an interim study to establish licensure and regulatory requirements for naturopathic doctors (NDs) in Wyoming.
"The purpose of this interim study request is to explore the process of licensing naturopathic doctors in Wyoming," Marks said, citing training at accredited naturopathic medical schools and services such as midwifery, women's health, adjunctive oncology and minor procedures.
Representative McCann and a student speaker, Elizabeth Gustus, urged the committee to consider licensure as a way to improve access to primary care in rural communities and to attract NDs to practice in Wyoming. Gustus described accredited naturopathic training programs and said licensure would help graduates decide where to live and practice.
Supporters noted a recent House bill (HB 269) had been tabled with a recommendation for interim study after extended committee discussion. The committee did not take action on the floor; sponsors asked for an interim study to develop scope-of-practice language and regulatory safeguards.
