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SB 246

AN ACT REQUIRING A STUDY OF THE VIABILITY OF ALLOWING NATUROPATHIC PHYSICIANS TO SERVE AS PRIMARY CARE PROVIDERS.

2025 Regular Session Introduced by Heather Somers

Connecticut orders study on whether to allow naturopathic physicians to serve as primary care providers, potentially expanding healthcare access but raising training and oversight questions.

REF. TO JOINT COMM. ON Public Health
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Bill Summary · SB 246

Legislative bill overview

SB 246 mandates a study examining whether naturopathic physicians could be authorized to function as primary care providers in Connecticut's healthcare system. The bill does not immediately grant naturopathic physicians this role, but rather requires an investigation into the feasibility and implications of doing so.

Why is this important

Primary care provider status carries significant weight in healthcare access and insurance coverage—patients need referrals from PCPs to see specialists, and insurers often require PCP coordination. Expanding who can serve in this role could potentially increase healthcare accessibility in underserved areas, but could also raise questions about medical training standards and patient safety if naturopathic practice lacks the same regulatory oversight as conventional medicine.

Potential points of contention

  • Regulatory and training differences: Naturopathic physicians have varying credentials across states, and their training typically differs substantially from MDs/DOs; concerns exist about whether this background adequately prepares them for primary care gatekeeping responsibilities
  • Insurance and liability implications: Allowing naturopathic practitioners as PCPs could affect insurance networks, reimbursement structures, and malpractice liability frameworks, with unclear cost impacts on the healthcare system
  • Evidence-based medicine standards: Conventional medical organizations may question whether naturopathic approaches meet evidence standards required for coordinating complex patient care and specialist referrals

Compiled from official sources — confirm details with the bill’s official record.

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