Membership Information

   VAANP Membership and Dues Policies

The VAANP is a membership organization affiliated with the American Association of Naturopathic Physicians (AANP). As such, we are a professional organization of Virginia naturopathic doctors whose primary purposes are to promote the philosophy and art of naturopathic medicine, to pursue the recognition of naturopathic medicine by the Commonwealth of Virginia, and to develop and promote the standards of the naturopathic profession.

Application for VAANP membership requires a copy of diploma from a VAANP recognized college AND a copy of your license from an acceptable jurisdiction. If you are applying for a student membership, include a copy of the acceptance letter or official transcript as proof of enrollment at an accredited naturopathic medical school that is approved by the VAANP(CNME pre-accredited four-year naturopathic medical program).

   Membership Eligibility

Professional Members are naturopathic physicians who hold a doctorate degree in naturopathic medicine from a VAANP approved college granting such degrees. Professional Members must also be current residents of Virginia . The VAANP generally follows the AANP's standards of membership. Professional Members must also agree to abide by the VAANP bylaws and standards of practice. Current naturopathic colleges recognized by the VAANP include Bastyr University, National College of Naturopathic Medicine, Southwest College of Naturopathic Medicine, University of Bridgeport, and the Canadian College of Naturopathic Medicine. No correspondence programs in naturopathy are approved by the VAANP and cannot be used as a basis for membership. The VAANP recognizes the concept of era-appropriate education of naturopathic physicians prior to 1977.

   Dues Policies

The membership year is from January 1st through December 31st. The due date for annual renewal of dues is February 15th. Membership privileges are suspended if payment is not received within 45 days of the due date. If payment is not received within 90 days of the due date, membership will be terminated.

   Benefits of Membership

Professional Members have the right to vote on VAANP matters (including the election of the Board of Directors), and as such have an active role in the organization. Professional Members are also maintained on the VAANP address list, which is posted on the VAANP website to allow patients to find your contact information.

   Approval Process

Applicants who meet the membership criteria stated above, who have paid their dues, and who have been approved by a three-fourths vote of the Board of Directors, will be approved for membership in the VAANP. Upon approval, a letter of confirmation will be sent to new members, and new regular members will receive a membership certificate. Membership inquiries may be addressed to: