Licensure
For more information on licensing visit the Idaho Board of Medicine website
What Board are NMDs licensed under in Idaho?
NMDs are licensed by the Idaho Board of Medicine. This sub-board format already exists for other professions: Respiratory Therapists, Athletic Trainers, Dieticians and Physician Assistants.
What is included in the scope of practice for NMDs in Idaho?
Naturopathic medical doctors may:
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use physical and laboratory examinations consistent with naturopathic medical education and training for diagnostic purposes.
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order and perform diagnostic and imaging tests consistent with naturopathic medical education and training. All diagnostic and imaging tests not consistent with naturopathic medical education and training must be referred to an appropriately licensed health care professional for treatment and interpretation.
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are authorized to dispense, administer, and prescribe prescription drugs and medical devices as authorized by the naturopathic medical formulary as set forth in rule.
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perform minor office procedures.
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perform those therapies for which they are trained and educated, consistent with the provisions of the law
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admit patients to a hospital at which they are credentialed and privileged to do so.
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The practice of naturopathic medicine does not include the practice of obstetrics.
Can NMDs prescribe pharmaceutical medications?
Yes, pharmaceutical privileges are included in this law. A formulary of exclusion is detailed in the Rules.
What is required to obtain a NMD license in Idaho?
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The applicant must be a graduate of an approved CNME, naturopathic medical program.
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The applicant must provide proof of having received a passing grade on the Naturopathic Physicians Licensing Examinations (NPLEX) administered by the approved National Board of Naturopathic Examiners (NABNE). Including the Elective Pharmacology Exam (EPE).
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***You are required to take the Elective Pharmacology Exam in order to receive your license in Idaho. Note this section of the application: DON’T LOSE YOUR NON-REFUNDABLE APPLICATION FEE.
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The board may require an applicant to be personally interviewed by the board, the naturopathic medical board, or by a designated committee of the board. Such an interview shall be limited to a review of the applicant’s qualifications and professional credentials.
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The application shall require a fingerprint-based criminal history check of the Idaho central criminal database and the federal bureau of investigation criminal history database. Each applicant must submit a full set of the applicant’s fingerprints on forms supplied by the board, which shall be forwarded to the Idaho state police and the federal bureau of investigation identification division for this purpose. The board shall not disseminate data acquired from a fingerprint-based criminal history check except as allowed by law.
When were the first licenses issued?
July 2020
With NMDs regulated by the Board of Medicine, how involved are NMDs be in the regulation of the profession?
The Naturopathic Medical Board (NMB) is comprised of three NMDs, one MD/DO and one public member. The NMB is charged with developing and making recommendations to the Board of Medicine regarding regulations, procedures for the issuances of licenses, a code of ethics, continuing educations requirements, and examination standards. While the Board of Medicine will have the ultimate say regarding disciplinary actions, the NMB is designed to advise the Board in these matters.
Are NMDs primary care providers with this law?
Yes, NMDs will be designated as primary care providers under this law.
Does insurance cover naturopathic care under this new law?
This law does not include provisions related to third payer reimbursement for naturopathic services. Licensure is the first step needed to eventually work towards insurance coverage of naturopathic care. Insurance companies may decide to credential NMDs as in-network providers, but are not required to do so. However, as licensed providers, NMDs will be able to supply patients with paperwork they can submit for reimbursement.
Is malpractice insurance required?
The current law does not include requirements for malpractice insurance, but it is highly encouraged that practicing NMDs carry malpractice insurance.
What titles can an NMD use in Idaho under this law?
The titles that denote licensing in Idaho include: “Naturopathic Physician”, “Naturopathic Medical Doctor” and Doctor of Naturopathic Medicine, “NMD”. Only individuals who are licensable under this law will be eligible to use those titles. The terms “ND” and “Naturopathic Doctor” are used by other states to denote licensing but these titles remain unregulated in Idaho and can be used by anyone with or without training.
What does licensure mean for job and professional development opportunities in Idaho for NMDs?
The IDAANP is working to develop professional relationships with many Idaho organizations, which will flourish after licensure and provide many opportunities for NMDs in the state.
Where can I find a copy of the licensing law and Rules?
Click on the following links: