Naturopaths trying to resolve fight

BOISE (AP) - Two groups of Idaho naturopaths that have been warring for years over licensing are trying to patch up their differences.

The Senate Health and Welfare Committee Monday agreed to consider a new bill backed by both the Idaho Association of Naturopathic Physicians and the Idaho Chapter of the American Association of Naturopathic Physicians.

That's a big change, because these two groups have waged a bitter fight over training and education standards since the Idaho Legislature approved naturopathic licensing in 2005. That's left state licensing in complete disarray.

Even with this latest measure, however, the Idaho Medical Association remain concerned it won't ensure naturopathic physicians are adequately trained to perform minor operations or dispense drugs.

Roy Eiguren, a lobbyist for the Idaho Association of Naturopathic Physicians, plans to meet with the doctors group on a compromise to its objections.