Naturopathic medicine has been a unique and integral part of the public health landscape in Oregon for over a century. This National Public Health Week the Oregon Association of Naturopathic Physicians (OANP) invites Oregonians to honor and celebrate the rich history and heritage of naturopathic medicine in our state.
Naturopathic medicine, with a history spanning over 125 years, began with the term "Naturopathy" coined in 1885 by Dr. John Scheel and later popularized by Dr. Benedict Lust. Since then, it has grown with the first naturopathic school founded by Dr. Benjamin Lust in New York City in 1902. The OANP, established in 1909, stands as the oldest association for naturopathic doctors in North America.
Oregon has been at the forefront of this movement, formally licensing naturopathic doctors since 1927. The state is home to the National University of Natural Medicine in Portland, a beacon of naturopathic education that has persisted even through the decline of natural medicine in the mid-20th century.
Today, as the public seeks more patient-centered and holistic approaches to health, naturopathic medicine is experiencing a resurgence. The National University of Natural Medicine has seen its enrollment quadruple, responding to a society that values an active role in personal health and healing.
The World Health Organization's Director General, Dr. Margaret Chan, has emphasized the harmonious integration of traditional, complementary, and Western medicine. Oregon is a leader in this integrated approach, aligning with the WHO Traditional Medicine Strategy for 2014-2023, which promotes universal health coverage inclusive of traditional and complementary medicine services.
The OANP is proud to support Oregonians in their health journeys by connecting them with licensed naturopathic doctors who are dedicated to a holistic, patient-centered approach to healthcare. As we celebrate National Public Health Week, let us recognize the unique contributions of naturopathic medicine to Oregon's healthcare system and the broader goal of integrated medicine.
The theme of 2024 National Public Health Week is "Protecting, Connecting and Thriving: We are all Public Health" For those interested in exploring naturopathic medicine, the OANP is here to assist in connecting people with a qualified naturopathic doctor. Learn more and search for one today at www.oanp.org/findanND. Together, we can work towards a healthier Oregon, protecting and nurturing what makes our state's healthcare exceptional, so we can continue to thrive.
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