NC S349

Establishes licensure requirements and creates the North Carolina Naturopathic Doctors Licensing Board to regulate naturopathic doctors, effective January 1, 2014.

Licensed naturopathic doctors may dispense natural remedies, perform physical examinations, order laboratory tests, and provide hydrotherapy and health counseling, but cannot prescribe legend drugs, perform surgery, use anesthetics, or practice as other licensed health professionals.

Applicants must graduate from an approved naturopathic medicine program, pass a national competency exam, and provide letters from at least four physicians in different specialties agreeing to accept referrals and work with the applicant.

The seven-member Board consists of two naturopathic doctors appointed by Senate President Pro Tempore, two appointed by House Speaker, two physicians appointed by Governor (at least one in integrative medicine), and one public member appointed by Governor.

Establishes licensure fees ($200-$1,000 depending on service), requires 40 hours of continuing education every two years for renewal, and authorizes the Board to deny, suspend, or revoke licenses for violations, criminal convictions, or unprofessional conduct.