Thank you to those who attended and contributed your perspectives and ideas to our town hall discussion last month.  We appreciate everyone's openness and willingness to participate. Your passion and dedication to delivering high-quality and accessible care to patients were clear.

Members shared concerns about reimbursement issues in insurance-based models, advocacy priorities, and the increasing financial and operational challenges facing naturopathic physicians in Oregon, as well as ways OANP can help mitigate those concerns and support practitioners in their daily practice. Below is a recap of the discussion.

Key discussion points included:

• Concerns regarding inadequate insurance reimbursement rates (especially compared with Nurse Practitioners), stagnant cost-of-living adjustments, frequent auditing, billing and coding, and rising administrative burdens creating financial instability were strongly expressed.
• OANP advocacy efforts related to insurance reimbursement parity, insurer negotiations, and legislative positioning were identified as necessary.
• Improving mentorship programs, residency-style training, and practical business education was identified as a priority.
• Maintaining and expanding access to naturopathic care for rural and underserved communities was strongly supported.

Solutions identified included:

• Coding and billing continuing education and workshops
• Exploration of a group health insurance plan for OANP members
• Development of improved mentorship and residency infrastructure
• Strengthening and continuing legislative advocacy efforts for pay parity

The discussion reflected a shared commitment to strengthening the sustainability of naturopathic practice while expanding access to care. Again, thank you to those who attended for taking the time out of your day to help us better understand the current struggles affecting your practice.

If you missed the town hall and have additional feedback or ideas to share, please do not hesitate to reach out to Jade Deitrick.

Continue the Conversation: Join Our Focus Group

We invite you to participate in an upcoming focus group as the next step following our recent Town Hall. This is an opportunity to provide deeper feedback on several key topics discussed during the meeting and help shape resources and support initiatives that can make a meaningful impact on your practice.

The focus group will explore resources OANP is currently developing, identify gaps in member support, and gather ideas for additional tools and services that could be implemented in the near term.

Discussion will center around three key areas:

1. Public Relations & Marketing Support: How can OANP better support members in building public awareness and understanding of naturopathic medicine? Topics may include patient education, community outreach, messaging strategies, and resources to help communicate the value of your clinic and services.

2. Technology & AI: What resources, tools, or educational opportunities would help you effectively incorporate technology and AI into your practice? We are interested in understanding what guidance, training, or curated resources would be most valuable to members.

3. Administrative & Operational Support: What resources would help streamline the day-to-day management of your clinic? Discussion topics may include workflows, staffing, billing, compliance, operations, and practice management support.

Again, thank you to those who attended for taking the time out of your day to help us better understand the current struggles affecting your practice, and the ways in which OANP can support your needs. Your insights and experiences are invaluable, and we hope you will join us in helping shape future member resources and priorities. If you would like to participate, please email Jade Deitrick at executive@oanp.org.

Congratulations to all three winners! We'll be reaching out soon with prize details. 

Thank you for being part of this community. Stay tuned for more updates, contests, and ways to get involved!

Join your fellow naturopathic physicians for a casual evening of conversation, music, and connection in downtown Portland to celebrate Naturopathic Medicine Week. OANP is excited to bring the ND community together again for an annual reunion to connect, catch up, and network. Details below.

 Portland Celebration
Date: Thursday, May 7, 2026
Time: 5:00 PM – 9:00 PM (join when you can)
Location: Kells Irish Restaurant & Pub, Downtown Portland
112 SW 2nd Ave, Portland, OR 97204

Hosted by Dr. Kellie Raydon, OANP Board Member and Social Events & Networking Committee Member

Special presentation by Dr. Mitch Stargrove: Drugless Physicians, Naturopaths, Chiropractors and Sanipractors – From Proprietary Schools to Institutional Education in Cascadia 

Live music by Hayley Valentine

Appetizers and beverages will be provided. 

Thank you to our wonderful event sponsors, Community Compounding Pharmacy and Vitanica.

Other Celebrations Across Oregon
The OANP Social Events & Networking Committee is also planning events for our statewide community:

 Central Oregon / Bend Gathering
Clinic: Proactive Choice 
Location: 601 NW Harmon Blvd., Bend, OR 97703
Date: Wednesday, May 6
Time: 4:00 – 6:00 PM
Hosted by Dr. Drew Collins

 Corvallis Area Gathering
Deep Roots Family Medicine
650 SW 3rd St., Corvallis, OR 97333
Wednesday, May 6
6:00 – 8:00 PM
Hosted by Dr. Samantha Evans Rayack

 Eugene / Lane County Potluck
Planned for late summer. Hosted by Dr. Kimberly Foster. (More details to come).

Thank you to all hosts for volunteering to bring our community together.

Prizes will celebrate creativity, inspiration, and storytelling, including FREE Annual Conference registration, complimentary annual membership renewal, and OANP swag. Categories may include: Best Clinic "Spaces" Photo, Best Throwback Photo, Most Inspiring Nature Shot, Member Choice Award and more.

Stay tuned — we’ll share full submission details next month! In the meantime, start digging through albums, scrolling your hard drive, or venturing into the cloud to find your favorite photos. Get ready to share your story with the ND community!

Imagine having a dedicated team of colleagues, driven by a shared vision for naturopathic medicine, working tirelessly to distill essential business insights into one convenient location…

That’s not just your imagination; that's precisely what our incredible OANP volunteers do! These like-minded professionals actively glean valuable information, tried-and-true tools, essential resources, and clever "tricks of the trade" from their own experiences and the broader professional naturopathic ecosystems. The result? A comprehensive set of resources meticulously curated for your convenience and immediate application, available to you 24/7!

Why is this so crucial for your practice?

Running a successful healthcare practice involves a myriad of responsibilities beyond patient care. From navigating complex regulations and managing staff, to optimizing operations and securing funding. The administrative load can be daunting! At OANP, we understand these challenges, and it's why we're delighted to present two invaluable assets designed to empower your success: the OANP Practice Management Toolkit and the Oregon Physician Resources.

Our Practice Management Toolkit acts as your strategic partner, offering practical solutions and guidance across various facets of practice administration. While the ever-evolving list of Oregon Physician Resources offers a wealth of opportunities for growth, development, and actionable intelligence regarding small business management and the healthcare provider spheres.

• SCORE - (https://portlandor.score.org/): Tap into the wisdom of experienced business professionals who offer free business mentoring. Whether you're just starting out or looking to scale, SCORE can provide invaluable guidance.
• Micro Enterprise Services of Oregon (MESO) - (https://www.mesopdx.org/): MESO is a fantastic resource for building a solid business foundation. They offer tailored business planning assistance, educational workshops, and crucial access to capital, helping you secure the funding needed to grow.
• Small Business Development Center - (https://oregonsbdc.org/): The SBDC network provides comprehensive support, from refining your business plan to offering expert advice on daily operations.
• Prosper Portland - (https://prosperportland.us/): Prosper Portland sponsors small business support programs and can be an excellent first stop for referrals on specific needs. They offer technical assistance and various financial programs that can significantly benefit your practice.

These are not just links; they represent pathways to tangible support, designed to help you streamline your operations, foster growth, and ultimately, dedicate more of your time and energy to what you do best – providing exceptional patient care.

We strongly encourage you to take the time to explore both the OANP Practice Management Toolkit and the Oregon Physician Resources. These assets are a testament to the power of our community and our collective commitment to elevating naturopathic medicine. Access them today and unlock the full potential of your practice and membership!

Sincerely,

Your Membership and Development Committee

Phone:  Ring-ring!

Former Member:  Ope, I better get that; it’s OANP calling!

At OANP, we believe in the power of connection and the immense value our naturopathic physicians bring to the healthcare space in Oregon and beyond. As we continue to grow and evolve, we're reaching out to those who have been a part of our community in the past.

In the coming weeks, members of OANP's Board of Directors and Membership & Professional Development Committee will be personally contacting former members. These aren't sales calls; they are opportunities for genuine conversation. We want to chat with you, hear your perspectives, and discuss the many ways an OANP membership can empower your practice and career.

We'll be highlighting the valuable benefits that a renewed membership offers, from advocacy and networking, to exclusive access to resources like our Practice Management Toolkit, and discounted rates on continuing education opportunities. This is a chance to rediscover how OANP can support you in today's dynamic healthcare landscape, as well as an opportunity to share with us feedback that will go to support our association’s evolution and continued legacy of longevity and relevant advocacy.

We look forward to reconnecting, listening, and sharing the developments taking place within your professional association! Or… You can put your phone on silent and just click here to become a member today!

Membership in OANP offers a powerful collective voice, advocating for your profession and ensuring your ability to practice to the fullest extent of your license. Stay informed on crucial legislative updates, regulatory changes, and insurance issues that directly impact your practice.

Beyond advocacy, OANP fosters a vibrant community of colleagues. Connect with peers through networking events, educational webinars, and online forums. Access valuable resources, including practice management tools, continuing education opportunities, and marketing support, all designed to enhance your professional growth and success.

By joining OANP, you're not just paying dues; you're investing in the strength and future of naturopathic medicine in Oregon, and directly in your own professional advancement. Be part of the collective that champions your profession. Become an OANP Member today and realize a multitude of benefits designed for your success.

May is the best time to become an OANP member! Members save over 30% ($165) off the regular conference registration price during our flash sale. Not only will you enjoy significant savings on our high-quality continuing education events, but you'll also gain access to a range of member benefits. These include:

• Legislative advocacy and business services to support and grow your practice

• Exclusive discounts on services, supplements, and malpractice insurance

• 10 hours of free CE through our bi-monthly virtual MedTalk Lectures

This year’s conference will be held on October 11-12 at the Crowne Plaza in Portland, focusing on Hormones in Health: Balance and Beyond. Attendees can earn 10 Pharmacy and 2 Ethics CE Hours—a valuable opportunity for professional development and growth.

Not a member yet? No problem! Non-members can still save $100 off the regular price during the flash sale. This is a one-day-only event, so be sure to mark your calendar for May 30th and take advantage of these great savings!

Whether you’re a member or a non-member, you won’t want to miss this chance to be part of a milestone event filled with engaging lectures and the opportunity to connect with your professional community.

We hope to see you there!

Reach out to development@oanp.org with any questions about membership!

OANP's volunteer Education Committee is planning an event that will not only provide outstanding educational offerings but will also give you fun and exciting opportunities to network and mingle with colleagues and vendors.

We invite you to mark your calendars for this event. Further details, including registration information, early bird pricing and the full conference agenda, will be shared in the coming months. We look forward to celebrating this milestone with you and advancing our shared commitment to excellence in naturopathic medicine. 

And that’s just the beginning! When you join OANP, you’re also joining a vibrant community of like-minded professionals who value the support of a professional state association to enhance their practice and career.

Check out all our member benefits and reach out to Jennifer Horton at development@oanp.org with any questions.

The theme for this year’s conference will dive deep into all things hormones—from the latest research and treatment strategies to practical applications in clinical practice. Whether you’re a long-time member or new to OANP, our conference is the perfect opportunity to connect, learn, and celebrate three decades of advancing naturopathic medicine.

Save the Date and stay tuned for more details—mark your calendar now for a memorable weekend of education, networking, and fun! Registration details coming soon. We hope to see you in the Fall!

The OANP community is proud to celebrate Dr. Rebecca Principe for her outstanding dedication and service over the past 12 years. Rebecca’s journey with OANP began as a student board member, where she quickly demonstrated her passion and commitment to the profession. She went on to serve as Board Treasurer for many years, providing exceptional financial stewardship and leadership during her tenure.

Rebecca will continue in her role as the Legislative Advocacy Committee Chair, furthering her legacy of advocacy and support for the naturopathic profession. Her contributions have been invaluable, and her impact on OANP and the wider community cannot be overstated.

Words cannot express how much Rebecca means to OANP and the countless individuals she has worked with and mentored along the way. We are deeply grateful for her unwavering dedication, tireless efforts, and the positive influence she has had on all of us.

Thank you, Rebecca, for your dedicated years of service on the board. Your leadership, insight, and kindness will truly be missed. Thank you for everything—we will forever be grateful for your contributions. You will always be a cherished part of the OANP family!

This year’s conference was highlighted by our awards ceremony, which included not only one incredible Living Legend, Dr. Satya Ambrose, but also two magnificent Rising Stars. Our first ever Rising Star Award was presented to both Dr. Valeria Manning and Dr. Terry Manning II. This dynamic trio of award recipients, along with special guests who spoke about their contributions and dedication to students, patients, and our medicine, brought a sense of heartfelt passion to the gathering. This special event serves as a powerful reminder of the healing potential that our profession holds. It feels good to create a space where everyone can both learn and celebrate together. 

The OANP team has been inspired by your positive feedback and is already looking ahead to next year! If you haven't had a chance to fill out our conference feedback survey, please share your feedback here!

Thank you once again to everyone who attended—your participation truly enhances our event, and we hope you found it informative and rewarding. Please reach out with any further questions. We look forward to seeing you all next year!

Sincerely, 

OANP Board, Committees, and Staff

TIGARD: Picnic Potluck + Play

Who: Local Naturopaths + colleagues/ families + OANP
What: Picnic Potluck + Play
Where: Cook Family Park Playground in Tigard Directions Link
When: Thursday, August 29, 6-8pm
Why: For local NDs to easily gather at a family-friendly event and optional potluck and have the opportunity to discuss the profession together, share practice tips and challenges, build connections and meet our volunteer hosts Drs. Valeria and Terry Manning.

How: RSVP here preferred to help us plan. Look for OANP signs and staff at the Playground

You want to sign up during Early Bird because it’s all about your peers…

1. “Join your peers to earn all your pharmacy and ethics CE for the year!”

2. “Be the first to know among your peers about the live updates from the Oregon Board of Naturopathic Medicine’s Executive Director, Mary-Beth Baptista, J.D.”

4. “Learn from your peers and ask presenters questions live.”

5. “Discuss cases you’ve had, tricks and tips you’ve learned and share resources you love with peers.”

6. “Learn about and sample new products, including ones developed by your peers, get steep discounts.”

Learn more and register today to get early bird pricing! 

It is time to consider submitting your application to be an OANP representative on the AANP House of Delegates. Below you will find links to the draft HoD Delegate Policy, the OANP HoD Committee Description, and the required application.  

Purpose: The House of Delgates (HoD) is the principle policy-making body of the American Association of Naturopathic Physicians (AANP). There are two types of House Committees: Standing (Position Paper Review, Agenda Development, Bylaw Review, and House Rules Review) and Ad Hoc Committees.

View HoD Delegate Policy

View HoD Committee Description

TO APPLY, please complete an application form.

The application is due by noon, Saturday, December 31, 2022, and decisions on this year’s representatives will be made by the Board of Directors at the OANP January Annual Retreat if not sooner.  One representative must be a board member and two representatives come from OANP voting membership.

Please be mindful that this is an AANP committee, not an OANP committee, and representatives are to speak for the entire OANP membership in all decision making.

If you have questions, contact Sheila Meserschmidt, Executive Director, at sheila@oanp.org.