Being enrolled in a naturopathic medical program is like swimming in a constant sea of change. Of course, there are the constants of endless classes, assignments, and exams. Yet, it is not a consistent environment. Quite the opposite! Classes and policies that have been around for years may be axed and replaced by something new, and students encounter a vast array of people that help shape us into the doctors we are, or will soon, become. It is in this atmosphere, where change is the only constant, that the naturopaths of tomorrow are being formed.

It is the intent of this column to explore naturopathic medical school through the eyes of a student – my eyes. In the weeks to come, this column will delve into current issues and events at the Canadian College of Naturopathic Medicine, as well as in the profession in general. I will provide a student’s outlook on the questions that seem most relevant to the profession, such as prescription rights, the introduction of electives into the school, and the balance between eclecticism and scientific approaches to medicine. I will also endeavour to bring attention to the most current and relevant research that is going on in the world of natural medicine. For example, this past month a large meta-analysis of the treatment of hepatitis B concluded that traditional Chinese medicines has a greater beneficial effect than interferon, and a slightly better effect than lamivudine¹.

There is much more to come in this column. Each entry will express the experience of this student as I move into the profession. This will be a place of exploration, curiosity, and controversy. I look forward to sharing my world with you and, in doing so, connecting with your own.

References:

1. Zhang L, Wang G, Hou W, Dulin A and Bonkovsky HL. Contemporary clinical research of traditional Chinese medicines for chronic hepatitis B in China: an analytic review. Heptatology 2000;51(2):690-8