Good news for naturopathic doctors and Albertans looking for them.

Our government has established the College of Naturopathic Doctors of Alberta – setting standards for professional practice.

Health Minister Fred Horne says this will give the college the power to self govern and the authority to establish requirements for entry into the profession and ongoing professional development.

The regulation will also allow the College to set standards for professional practice, investigate complaints and govern use of protected titles, including Naturopath and Naturopathic Doctor.

In addition to authorizing self-governance, the regulation also describes the restricted activities naturopathic doctors registered with the College are permitted to perform; including: injections, minor surgeries, and ear exams.

Naturopathic doctors focus on health promotion, illness prevention and treating disease using natural therapies and substances to help the body health.

Currently, there are 144 practicing naturopathic doctors in Alberta.