Florida may reintroduce licensed naturopathic doctors after 67 years
A new bill in Florida could bring back licensed naturopathic doctors after more than six decades. SB 688, sponsored by Senator Ana Maria Rodriguez, has moved forward in the state Senate. The proposal aims to expand healthcare choices for residents by regulating alternative treatments.
Florida abolished the licensing of naturopathic doctors in 1957. If passed, the new bill would create the Board of Naturopathic Medicine under the Department of Health. This board would oversee licensing and set professional standards for practitioners.
Naturopathic medicine focuses on non-invasive and holistic approaches. Under SB 688, licensed doctors could offer treatments like herbal therapy, physiotherapy, and electrotherapy. Senator Rodriguez argues the bill would give Floridians more healthcare options. Critics, however, raise concerns about patient safety. They warn that licensing naturopathic doctors might weaken conventional medicine. The debate also highlights a lack of national training and certification standards for the field.
The bill's progress marks a potential shift in Florida's healthcare system. If approved, it would reintroduce regulated naturopathic care after 67 years. The outcome could influence how alternative medicine is practised and monitored in the state.
