H277 - Naturopathic Study. (SL 2018-24)

Overview: S.L. 2018-24 requires on or before September 15, 2018, the Secretary of the Department of Health and Human Services (DHHS), or designee, must convene a work group to study the delivery of naturopathic medicine in North Carolina. The work group must consist of: two naturopathic doctors selected by the NC Association of Naturopathic Physicians; one medical doctor with knowledge of naturopathic medicine selected by the NC Medical Society; the chairperson of the North Carolina Medical Board or designee; and the Secretary of DHHS or designee. The work group is required to develop recommendations which must include the following:

• Identification of an approved program of study for naturopathic medicine offered by an institution of higher education that leads to a degree as a Doctor of Naturopathic Medicine.
• A scope of practice for naturopathic doctors.
• Whether the practice of naturopathic medicine should constitute the practice of medicine or surgery as defined in Chapter 90 of the General Statutes.
• Recommendations on appropriate fees for application, examination, certification, renewals, and late renewals, which may be necessary to cover the costs of oversight.

The work group is required to report findings and recommendations to the Joint Legislative Oversight Committee on Health and Human Services on or before January 15, 2019. The recommendations must include appropriate fees for application, examination, certification, renewals, and late renewal, as appropriate to cover the associated costs for oversight.

The act became effective June 14, 2018.