Representative
Street Address
City, PA
September 1, 2011
Dear Representative,
I am writing to ask your support of HB 1717, a bill that would provide licensure for naturopathic
physicians in Pennsylvania. HB 1717 was introduced by Representative Mark Mustio (Republican-Moon
Twp) on June 23, 2011 and sent to the House Professional Licensure Committee. I believe that
Naturopathic Medicine is an integral part of a comprehensive healthcare system. As a resident of
Pennsylvania, it is important to me that Naturopathic Medicine become licensed so that my family,
friends and myself have access to natural medicine provided by trained and qualified naturopathic
physicians. I strongly believe in the philosophy and practice of Naturopathic Medicine and believe that
people have a freedom of choice, especially when it comes to healthcare.
Passage of HB 1717 would ensure that educational guidelines are followed, promoting the highest
quality of naturopathic services for Pennsylvania residents, by licensing naturopathic doctors who have
completed a four-year, graduate level medical school program, passed board exams, and who meet
federally recognized standards of education. Naturopathic doctors act as a bridge between conventional
and CAM. Over a third of Americans utilize some kind of CAM therapy or supplementation. Licensed
naturopathic doctors collaborate with allopathic and osteopathic physicians to coordinate care and reduce
the incidence of drug-nutrient and drug-herb interactions.
Licensing naturopathic physicians is an effective, cost-efficient way to reduce the burden of
chronic disease in Pennsylvania, especially in light of the physician shortage that exists in this state.
There is an increasing body of scientific research that supports the use of nutritional therapies for various
physical conditions and the benefits of supplements and herbal products for wellness and health
promotion. The patients of Pennsylvania naturopathic doctors deserve access to the care these doctors
can provide.
My experience with naturopathic medicine is that it provides wonderful adjunct care.
Naturopathic doctors look at people as a whole and really listen to you. They take the time to educate you
about the therapies they recommend, lab tests that have been performed and what the results mean.
Naturopathic doctors also work well with other health professionals.
Please support HB 1717 by signing on as a sponsor so that Pennsylvania will continue to be
progressive in healthcare delivery while meeting the public demand for these services.
Thank you in advance for reading this letter and for your public service.
Respectfully yours,