- Introduced -

SB 1262 - This act allows certification or licensure for the practice of naturopathic medicine.

Terms related to naturopathic medicine are defined. The practice of naturopathic medicine without certification or licensure is prohibited under these sections (Section 324.650).

Application procedures are outlined for candidates for licensure as naturopathic medical doctors (Section 324.653).

The State Board of Naturopathic Medicine is established, consisting of six members, including one public member. The Board will retain subpoena power. Any person who reports to the Board in good faith will not be civilly liable (Section 324.656).

The duties of the Board are outlined, including setting fees, adopting rules, and employing personnel (Section 324.659).

Any person holding a license or certificate must display the document in plain view (Section 324.662).

Applicants must sit for an examination and must achieve a score of at least 75%. Components of the examination are outlined. The Board may accept an applicant's passage of a substantially similar exam. Physicians and chiropractors may waive the exam requirement if they have obtained an equivalent degree in naturopathic medicine (Section 324.665).

Naturopathic medical students may engage in clinical training programs. A certificate must be issued and students may only perform approved tasks (Section 324.668). Graduates of naturopathic medical schools may also do internships (Section 324.671).

Doctors of naturopathic medicine may dispense a substance or device to a patient under certain circumstances. Before doing so, a written statement must be provided notifying the patient of the option for the prescription to be filled by the naturopath or by a pharmacy (Section 324.674). Violators of this act will be guilty of a Class A misdemeanor (Section 324.677).

Continuing education is required as a condition for license renewal. Procedures for renewal are also outlined (Sections 324.680 and 324.683). The Board may charge a registration fee (Section 324.686).

The Board may refuse to issue or renew a license or certificate, or issue a license subject to limitations. The Board may file a complaint for certain reasons and administrative hearing provisions will apply. If a revocation occurs, the Board may prohibit reinstatement for two to seven years. During an investigation, the Board may review patient medical records as they relate to the applicant or licensee (Section 324.689).

The Board must publish a quarterly list of licensees and a disciplinary report (Section 324.692). If a licensee presents a clear and present danger to the public, the Board may suspend or restrict the certificate or license. The licensee must be notified of such by certified mail with a copy of all pertinent information. Administrative hearing provisions will apply (Section 324.695).

Any person who falsely issues a diploma or certificate of graduation or anyone who accepts such a document without completing the appropriate curriculum requirements will be guilty of a Class A misdemeanor (Section 324.698).

This act is similar to HB 416 (2001).

ERIN MOTLEY