For over a century, the NHAA has advocated on behalf of naturopathic and Western herbal medicine practitioners, who make valuable contributions to community and public healthcare and are important members of the Australian healthcare workforce. We continue to do so.
The NHAA expects naturopathic and Western herbal medicine practitioners to be aware of their professional responsibilities and role in public health, particularly regarding the current pandemic and issues arising from this. While we support the rights of individuals to maintain their personal views, it is vital that practitioners are aware of their responsibilities as health care workers.
NHAA members are bound by the NHAA Code of Conduct. In addition, although naturopathy and Western herbal medicine are not registered professions, practitioners are required to follow public health guidelines regarding clinical treatments and advice, professional communication and behaviour. These include local health department policies, procedures, and guidelines on COVID-19 management.
The National Code of Conduct for Healthcare Workers sets out the minimum practice and ethical standards to be observed by unregistered healthcare providers, including naturopaths and Western herbal medicine practitioners.
NHAA members are advised to be familiar with the NHAA Code of Conduct and other applicable laws before making any public statements concerning interventions that are outside their scope of practice and/or oppose public health guidelines.
We acknowledge the valuable work being done by our members, to support the health of Australians during this challenging time.