H692 Summary

• Establishes certification and education standards for naturopathic doctors in North Carolina through a new Article 43 in Chapter 90 of the General Statutes.

• Creates a seven-member North Carolina Naturopathic Doctors Certification Board with appointed members including naturopathic doctors, licensed physicians, and a public member to oversee certification, discipline, and enforcement.

• Requires applicants to graduate from an approved naturopathic medicine program, pass the Naturopathic Physicians Licensing Examination (NPLEX), and provide letters from physicians in at least four medical specialties willing to consult and accept referrals.

• Defines the scope of naturopathic practice to include natural medicines, diagnostic procedures, laboratory tests, and therapeutic modalities while prohibiting prescription drugs, surgery, and other advanced medical procedures.

• Establishes certification fees ($200-$1,000), renewal requirements (every 2 years with 40 hours of continuing education), and disciplinary authority including suspension or revocation for violations or criminal conduct.