Nova Scotia regulates naturopathic doctors but scope of work still unclear

Nova Scotia has recently started regulating naturopathic doctors, making it the first Atlantic Canadian province to do so and giving them a formal standing under health laws. This means patients now have protections like a complaint process. However, the government hasn't yet decided exactly what medical tasks these doctors can perform, such as prescribing medicines or making referrals. Health Minister Michelle Thompson says this work is ongoing, while the naturopathic doctors' association hopes for a broad scope of practice. This story matters because it affects public access to different types of healthcare and how naturopathic services are recognized. What to watch next is when and how Nova Scotia will finalize the specific services naturopathic doctors are allowed to provide.

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