STATEMENT OF PURPOSE
RS27025C2
The proposed legislation would improve access to primary care in the state of Idaho by allowing naturopathic
medical doctors, who have graduated from an accredited naturopathic medical school and have passed an
exam, to fully practice naturopathic medicine in the state of Idaho. Currently, pharmacists are not allowed
to fill prescriptions of non-licensed naturopathic medical doctors preventing them from fully practicing their
medical discipline for which they have been trained and educated. As a result, licensable naturopathic
medical doctors have offices out of state and Idahoans are traveling out of state to get the primary care they
desire.
The proposed legislation would add a Naturopathic Medical Board. This board will be an advisory board to
the Idaho Board of Medicine established in the same manner as the respiratory therapist's board, the athletic
trainer board, and the dieticians board. The proposed legislation would establish the powers and duties of
the board, which include licensing naturopathic medical doctors.
It is important to note that the proposed legislation would not limit or change the scope of practice of
naturopathic providers who are currently practicing in Idaho. It only expands the scope of practice for
those who have been trained and educated as naturopathic physicians and want to be licensed. In addition,
those who provide naturopathic services and refer to themselves a "Naturopathic Doctors" may continue to
do so.
FISCAL NOTE
There is no fiscal impact to the general fund, because the cost to administer the licenses and regulate
naturopathic physicians would be paid from licensure fees.
Contact:
Kris Ellis
IdahoChapter, American Association of Naturopathic Physicians
(208) 250-3132
Representative Terry Gestrin
(208) 322-1000
DISCLAIMER: This statement of purpose and fiscal note are a mere attachment to this bill and prepared by a proponent
of the bill. It is neither intended as an expression of legislative intent nor intended for any use outside of the legislative
process, including judicial review (Joint Rule 18).
Statement of Purpose / Fiscal Note H0244