Doctor of Naturopathic Medicine

Doctor of Naturopathic Medicine

To keep the body in good health is a duty, otherwise we shall not be able to keep our mind strong and clear. BUDDHA

Doctor of Naturopathic Medicine The Doctor of Naturopathic Medicine (ND) degree is an intensive four-year program that prepares candidates to become primary care physicians. It is a distinct system of health care; an art, science, philosophy and practice of medicine that focuses on prevention and treating the root cause of disease. The curriculum emphasizes an approach to health and healing that considers the whole person when treating disease, and prepares candidates for state board licensing examinations and clinical practice. As the oldest naturopathic medicine program in North America, NCNM educates students as primary care physicians with an expertise in natural medicine. The expansive scope of practice and designation of NDs as primary care physicians by the state of Oregon allows our students to be trained in a broad range of therapeutics from nutrition and botanical medicine to pharmacology and minor surgery.

Program Overview The first year of training focuses on the structure and function of the human body. After taking basic courses in anatomy, physiology, biochemistry, histology and immunology, students move into a deeper exploration of disease diagnosis and natural medicine therapeutic modalities. Coursework includes botanical medicine, hydrotherapy, therapeutic manipulation, clinical nutrition, homeopathy, minor surgery and pharmacology. Clinical training begins in the first or second year and continues throughout the program. About a quarter of our students are involved in projects at NCNM s Helfgott Research Institute, including studies that have been funded by the National Institutes of Health and other organizations. Residency Program NCNM s naturopathic residency program is rigorous and competitive, and provides invaluable clinical experience to assist students in completing the transition toward becoming practicing physicians. In addition to completing a Doctor of Naturopathic Medicine degree from an accredited institution, candidates must demonstrate professionalism, maturity, commitment to serve, excellent clinical abilities, and an aptitude for enhancing their clinical skills. Potential careers Private practice Integrative care with conventional providers Research Public policy work

The groundwork for all happiness is good health. LEIGH HUNT Naturopathic Medicine Principles: First, do no harm: Naturopathic physicians use the most natural, least invasive and least toxic therapies. The healing power of nature: The human body is in tune with a natural force that moves living things toward a healthy state. Identify and treat the cause: Symptoms are signals of underlying imbalances and ailments that must be addressed in order to achieve healthy function. Treat the whole person: Overall health is a reflection of physical, emotional and spiritual well-being. Each of these factors must be addressed in a healing regimen. Doctor as teacher: Naturopathic physicians empower patients to care for their own health as much as possible. Prevention: Naturopathic physicians focus on promoting health to avoid disease.

Program Outcomes 1. Medical Knowledge Conduct a complete and accurate history and physical examination, demonstrating the knowledge, skills, abilities and attitudes expected of a naturopathic professional. Apply critical thinking and the naturopathic principles in the context of a patient-centered model of care. 2. Patient Management Apply the principles and philosophy of naturopathic primary care medicine to facilitate and/or redirect inherent healing processes, treat disease, encourage prevention, and foster optimal physical, emotional and mental health in patients. 3. Communication and Collaboration Apply communication skills that result in effective education, communication exchange and partnership with patients, their loved ones, and other health professionals. 4. Practice-Based Learning and Improvement Appraise, assimilate and apply scientific evidence to improve patient care. 5. Ethics and Professionalism Demonstrate a commitment to carrying out professional responsibilities, adherence to ethical principles, and sensitivity to a diverse patient population. 6. Practice Management and Business Skills Establish and maintain a viable naturopathic career. 7. Systems-Based Practice Demonstrate an awareness of, and responsiveness to, the developing role of naturopathic medicine within the larger context and system of health care. Effectively call on system resources to provide care that is of optimal value.

Estimated Program Cost Current tuition, as of 2014/2015, for the ND program is $394 per credit. Tuition is subject to change. Please contact the Office of Admissions for current information. Estimated first-year tuition: 82.75 credits x $394/credit = $32,603* *subject to change Note that the first-year credit load is heaviest; credit load decreases in years two through four. Total Degree Credits Required Course Credits 286 Elective Course Credits 16 Total Credits 302 Admissions Requirements GPA: 3.0 or higher (strongly recommended) Course Prerequisites: Mathematics Algebra, calculus or math-based statistics General Chemistry with lab Science-major level Organic Chemistry I Science-major level Organic Chemistry II or Biochemistry Science-major level AND One course Two courses One course One course General Biology with lab Science-major level Must cover cellular biology Physics Must cover mechanics Kinesiology Must be approved OR Social Sciences One course must be human psychology (life span or developmental) Humanities One course must be English composition Two courses One course One course Two courses Two courses Personal Statement: Please provide a personal statement. (maximum 1,000 words, double spaced) Essay 1: How do you see yourself using the ND degree five years beyond graduation from NCNM? (maximum 1,000 words, double spaced) Essay 2: The field of naturopathic medicine has changed substantially over the last 10 years with the pharmaceutical formulary expansion and the classification of NDs as primary care physicians in many states. Please discuss your vision of how you will strive to integrate your work as a naturopathic physician into the greater healthcare system. (maximum 1,000 words, double spaced) Resume: Please include job experience, internships, extracurricular activities, and publications relevant to natural medicine.

Required Courses Structure and Function I III Anatomy I & II Naturopathic History and Philosophy I & II Naturopathic Medicine Retreat Microbiology, Public Health and Immunology Introduction to Medical Systems This year-long sequence is an in-depth exploration of the microscopic and gross structure and function of the human body. Students examine the anatomy, physiology and embryology of each organ system, including the cardiovascular, gastrointestinal, endocrine, integumentary, nervous, lymphatic, respiratory, urinary and reproductive systems. Biochemical structures and pathways of metabolism, including the roles of vitamins and minerals, are also be covered. This series covers the anatomy of the muscular, skeletal, vascular and nervous elements of the extremities, spinal column and skull. The lab component includes participation in palpation labs and cadaver dissection as an aid to learning the interrelationships of the parts of the human body. Students study the microscopic anatomy of all major body tissues with an emphasis on histopathology. This series introduces the philosophical basis of naturopathic medicine and the role of the naturopathic physician in today s world. Students examine the history of naturopathic medicine, historical figures that played key roles in the development of naturopathic medicine, and the formation of naturopathic philosophy. In this weekend experiential course, naturopathic philosophy comes to life as students discuss and experience nature-cure and related therapies in a natural setting. This course explores infectious diseases, microbial structure and function, and the normal flora and common pathogens of the human body. The etiology, epidemiology, prevention and control of communicable diseases from a public health perspective are also covered. Special emphasis is given to how practitioners effectively interact with public health agencies. The class also explores the basic functions of the immune system with emphasis on its role in the protection against microbial infections and tumors, immune deficiency states, autoimmunity and psychoneuroimmunology. The history and philosophy of the major medical systems of the world. Characteristics of the U.S. medical system will be explored, as well as the developing role of naturopathic medicine within the larger context of our healthcare system. Insurance practices, strategies for delivering quality care, and best practices in referral and management of patients are also covered.

Every human being is the author of his own health or disease. SWAMI SIVANANDA SARASWATI

Naturopathic physicians are trained as primary care providers with an expertise in prevention and natural medicine. Our unique approach to patient care combines the traditions of natural healing with the integration of conventional modalities, each supported by a balance of research, scientific validation and clinical expertise. MELANIE HENRIKSEN, ND, LAc, CNM DEAN, SCHOOL OF NATUROPATHIC MEDICINE

Required Courses Introduction to Therapeutic Modalities I & II Community Education Clinical Observation/ Preceptorship Introduction to Clinic This series introduces each major naturopathic therapeutic modality: clinical nutrition, hydrotherapy, physical medicine, homeopathy, botanical medicine and pharmacology. History and philosophy, terminology, mechanism of action, general therapeutic applications, indications, contraindications, safety and monitoring for each modality are covered. Students analyze evidence for the effectiveness of each modality. Through promoting naturopathic medicine to the greater community, students enhance their public speaking, communication, presentation, organizational, networking and outreach skills. Community education guidelines and required paperwork are reviewed prior to public event involvement. Examples of community education projects include developing educational materials, giving lectures, staffing a wellness table and teaching a class. Clinical observations and preceptorships provide students with observational learning experiences under the mentorship of licensed physicians in practice. Students observe NCNM faculty physicians on clinical rotations with student interns while witnessing routine clinic procedures, diagnoses and treatments, therapeutic modalities and referral management. During the first year, students are assigned to NCNM clinic shifts; in the second, third and fourth years, students mentor with licensed physicians outside NCNM. This course gives an overview of NCNM clinic procedures, and includes required HIPAA and OSHA trainings. Hydrotherapy Rotation Business Seminars I V Students provide hydrotherapy treatments to NCNM Clinic patients under the supervision of a licensed naturopathic physician. Students continue to develop their patient communication skills; assess patients for indications and contraindications to hydrotherapy treatments; refine their hydrotherapy treatment skills; monitor patients during treatment; and recommend hydrotherapy home treatments. This series covers the steps necessary to start and maintain a private naturopathic medical practice, including an in-depth review of clinic business operations and management, development, administration and marketing. Students will have the opportunity to explore other professional paths as naturopathic physicians, such as starting a career in academics, research, consulting, sales, or furthering their education.

Required Courses Jurisprudence Grand Rounds This course surveys medical healthcare law as it applies to naturopathic physicians. Topics include licensing and regulation, reporting requirements, informed consent, patient confidentiality, advanced directives, HIPAA, malpractice and provider service agreements. Topics covered may include requirements for HIPAA, OSHA and other regulating agencies, best practice charting principles, cultural sensitivity, clinical cases, and other areas that are important in a physician's practice. Students are exposed to different approaches to medical care than those taught in the core curriculum. Case Integration Mentor Secondary Rotation Primary Rotation Electives Under the guidance of an experienced clinician, students present and analyze cases, discuss and review the evidence behind therapeutic options, and support their peers in determining diagnosis, treatment and management protocols for their patients. Students serve as secondary student interns at NCNM clinics under the supervision of a licensed naturopathic physician. As a secondary, students are responsible for the initial patient interaction, including taking patient vital signs, reviewing medications, etc. In addition, the secondary student participates in patient care by assisting the primary intern, which may include interviewing patients, conducting physical exams, etc. The primary student intern rotation is the culmination of a students naturopathic medical education with NCNM. Under the supervision of a licensed naturopathic physician, a primary is responsible for interviewing patients, conducting physical exams, ordering and assessing diagnostic lab work, developing a diagnosis and treatment plan, and managing patients long term. Students are expected to synthesize knowledge and skills from all courses in the ND program, and demonstrate the ability to apply critical thinking skills, evidence-informed practice, and diagnostic skills to the treatment and management of patients in a primary care setting. Students are required to take a minimum of 14 elective credits focusing on advanced therapeutics or modalities. Early electives such as NW herbs or massage may be taken early in the program. Advanced electives such as advanced gynecology, pediatrics and gastroenterology are more appropriate once students have completed the majority of their didactic instruction.

Required System Block Courses Cardiovascular and Pulmonology Dermatology and Minor Surgery Gastroenterology and Proctology Head, Eyes, Ears, Nose and Throat Hematology and Oncology IV Therapy and Environmental Medicine Metabolic and Endocrine Musculoskeletal, Orthopedics, Exercise Physiology and Rehabilitation Rheumatology and Clinical Immunology Neurology Pediatrics, Geriatrics and Special Populations Psychology and Mental Health Reproductive Systems (Male, Female and Natural Childbirth) Urology and Nephrology Each organ system course begins with a brief overview of structure, function, anatomy, physiology and wellness. The bulk of the course is devoted to understanding pathology, disease diagnosis/assessment, and patient treatment and management of common conditions. Within the context of each organ system block, emphasis is placed on a whole-systems approach and the application of naturopathic philosophy to patient care. Supplementary topics such as cultural competency, ethics, evidence-informed practice, interprofessional practice, jurisprudence, and practitioner cultivation are integrated throughout each course. These courses each have a strong emphasis on case-based learning and practical clinical skills.

Four-Year Program Sample Schedule FIRST YEAR Structure and Function I III Anatomy I & II Naturopathic History and Philosophy I & II Naturopathic Medicine Retreat Microbiology, Public Health and Immunology Intro to Medical Systems Intro to Therapeutic Modalities I & II Clinical Observation/Preceptorship I & II Intro to Community Education Early Electives (e.g. Massage, NW Herbs, etc.) SECOND YEAR Musculoskeletal, Orthopedics, Exercise Physiology and Rehabilitation Neurology Intro to Clinic Cardiovascular and Pulmonary Hematology and Oncology Gastroenterology and Proctology Urology and Nephrology Metabolic and Endocrine Clinical Observation/Preceptorship Clinical Experience Hydrotherapy Rotation

THIRD YEAR Reproductive (Male, Female and Natural Childbirth) Rheumatology and Clinical Immunology Head, Eyes, Ears, Nose and Throat Dermatology and Minor Surgery Psychology and Mental Health Pediatrics, Geriatrics and Special Populations IV Therapy and Environmental Medicine Business Seminars Community Education Clinical Observation/Preceptorship Clinical Experience Secondary Shifts FOURTH YEAR Clinical Experience Primary Shifts Grand Rounds Case Integration Mentor Course Jurisprudence Business Seminars Clinical Observation/Preceptorship Electives: Special Topics, Advanced Topics and Advanced Therapeutic Courses FACULTY HIGHLIGHT Kimberly Windstar, ND Dr. Windstar s past experience as a special education teacher, along with 25 years of personal growth work and medical practice, has helped her develop a distinctive style of care. I strive to create a space of unconditional acceptance for my patients, she says. I understand that it requires trust and time to truly treat the whole person and find the deepest cause of a patient s health issues. Dr. Windstar uses a variety of treatments in her practice including lifestyle education, botanical medicine, diet and nutritional supplementation, homeopathy, hydrotherapy and more. A recognized authority in women s health, Dr. Windstar supervises student interns on clinical rotations at the NCNM Clinic and teaches courses in gynecology, palpation and clinical case presentation. Her love of teaching led her to create unique clinical mentorship opportunities for naturopathic students for nearly 15 years. As a result of Dr. Windstar s work, NCNM now offers 24 new mentorship opportunities and, beginning in 2005, a women s health residency, with training in colposcopy and advanced gynecology. Dr. Windstar received a Master of Education degree from California State College in 1982, and graduated from NCNM in 1991 with a Doctor of Naturopathic Medicine degree.

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