The ANPA strives for excellence, leadership and integrity in naturopathic health care. We promote and disseminate knowledge and understanding of Naturopathy to our members and the public at large. We have minimum entry standards for membership and enforce a strict code of ethics for our members. Visit the ANPA webiste for more information. The ANPA acknowledges the role and responsibility of setting standards of ethical behaviour expected of Naturopaths. The ANPA Code of Ethics provides a set of fundamental principles that should guide members in their professional conduct. Adherence to the Code is mandatory for all practitioners belonging to the ANPA. The philosophical approach of a practising naturopath is to seek to treat the underlying causes of disease holistically, acknowledging and embracing centuries of empirical knowledge and traditional principles. In so doing, evaluating treatments offered, knowledge of human disease and scientific research as well as ongoing continuing professional development.
- ANPA has played a role in the formation of the Australian Register of Naturopaths and Herbalists (ARONAH) www.aronah.org
- ANPA was involved in the development of the La Trobe report supporting the recommendation for registration of Naturopaths (see links page)
- ANPA together with the Federation of Natural and Traditional Therapists (FNTT) achieved the first national competency standards. ANPA expects and encourages its members to hold firm to established Naturopathic philosophies:
- First do no harm
- Practice the healing power of nature – Vis Medicatrix Naturae
- Identify and treat the cause – Tolle Causum
- Treat the whole person; the multi-factorial nature of health and disease
- Practice prevention – the best "cure"
- No discrimination against clients or professionals based on race, religion, age, sex, handicaps, national ancestry, sexual orientation or economic conditions.
- Agree to abide by all state and local laws
- Agree to not exceed the scope of practice, either in abilities or by law
- Strive to be objective in the treatments of clients and performance of duties, recognizing the rights of all persons, and human limitations
- Distinguish clearly, in public between statements and actions as an individual and as a representative of Naturopathy
- Encourage policy, procedures and personal practices that enables oneself and one’s colleagues to conduct themselves in accordance with the values, goals and objectives of the Naturopathic Code of Ethics
Naturopaths have a duty of care to their patients to improve and maintain health. This duty is extended to patients who entrust themselves to the care of a naturopath due to illness, or to those seeking advice for health maintenance, or to those whose aim is prevention of disease.
