Raised Bill No. 177, introduced in the February Session, 2024, seeks to amend the current law regarding the practice of naturopathy. The bill proposes to expand the scope of practice for naturopathic physicians by allowing them to prescribe medication. The existing definition of naturopathy includes counseling, various mechanical and material sciences of healing, ordering diagnostic tests and procedures, ordering medical devices and durable medical equipment, and performing certain medical procedures such as removing ear wax and venipuncture for blood testing. The bill inserts a new provision that would enable naturopathic physicians to treat patients with prescription medication, subject to the conditions outlined in a new subsection (b).

The new subsection (b) mandates that the Department of Public Health, in consultation with the State Board of Naturopathic Examiners, establish educational and examination requirements or other qualifications for naturopathic physicians to prescribe, dispense, and administer prescription medication within their scope of practice. Additionally, it requires the creation of a naturopathic formulary of prescription medication that qualified naturopathic physicians may use. This formulary is to be updated at least every three years. The bill also clarifies the definition of "natural substances" as those that are not narcotic, do not require a prescription, and are administered orally. The act is set to become effective on October 1, 2024, and aims to authorize naturopathic physicians to prescribe medication as part of their practice.