Maine expands authority of naturopathic doctors

Key Points:

• Maine Governor Janet Mills signed new rules expanding naturopathic doctors' authority to prescribe medications and administer intravenous therapy, following strong legislative approval.
• The changes aim to improve patient access to comprehensive care in a state facing healthcare access challenges, according to Dr. Katy Morrison of the Maine Association of Naturopathic Doctors.
• Naturopathic doctors will now be able to prescribe certain medications, such as antibiotics and treatments for blood pressure and asthma, and provide IV nutrient or mineral therapies, though some drugs like antidepressants and chemotherapy remain restricted.
• Medical groups including the Maine Medical Association initially opposed the changes over safety concerns but some leaders, like Dr. Garrett Fontaine, have since expressed willingness to collaborate after hearing patient and naturopathic doctor testimonies.
• The expanded scope of practice, effective this summer, marks the first significant update since Maine began licensing naturopathic doctors in 1996, with about 40 practitioners currently in the state.