Elements and Performance Criteria

The major and minor forms of diagnosis may include:
Observation
Discussion
Taking temperature
Taking pulse and blood pressure
Palpation and auscultation
Percussion
External physical examination
Iridology techniques
Urine tests
Assessment of growth (height, weight, head circumference) and development
Overview of system - inquiring about the presence of previously diagnosed organic diseases and functional disorders
Any other method in which the practitioner has been trained to a competent standard
Procedure which is conducted according to legislative and regulatory requirements

Treatment practices may include:
Nutrition therapies including the use of specific micronutrient supplements and food therapy
Herbal medicine
Homoeopathy
Bodywork eg massage, reflexology, shiatsu
Counselling

Definition of naturopathy is:
Naturopathy is a distinct method of healing, underpinned by a philosophical perspective which recognises that all living forms possess a self-regulatory, inherent ability for self-healing. This inherent ability, or vital force, operates in an intelligent, orderly fashion. Naturopathic approaches to health care are aimed at supporting and enhancing the body's own ability to heal itself.

Central philosophies include:
Vis medicatrix naturae (the healing power of nature)
Tolle causam (identify and treat the cause)
Docere (doctor as teacher)
Treat the whole person
Prevention

Measures are implemented could refer to:
Supervision of practice
Financial documentation
Documentation of medicine prescription and supply
Case notes
Practitioner qualification
Performance reviews
Current certification for special services offered - where appropriate
Organisational standards and procedures

Effective communication and interpersonal skills may include:
Active listening skills
Ability to establish rapport and trust
Eye contact
Verbal communication skills
Written communication skills
Empathy and respect
Ability to clarify needs
Conflict resolution skills
Negotiation skills
Presentation
Honesty and integrity

Opportunities for formal and informal development of skills and knowledge may include:
Articles, public presentations, interviews and other communications
Attendance at lectures or other education activities
Participation in research projects
Attendance at association meetings
Subscription to professional journals
Clinic supervision
Provision of or attendance at training
Study, distance-based learning

Critical aspects of assessment:
Ability to work or model work which demonstrates an understanding of underpinning values and philosophies in the naturopathy framework
Knowledge of the philosophies, principles and tools of naturopathic practice
Knowledge of a range of alternative and complementary therapies
Demonstrated ability to correctly identify information needs
Demonstrated ability to seek out and implement new industry findings and practices
Demonstrated documentation skills
Demonstrated ability to explain relevant products and services
Demonstrated communication skills in a one-to-one and group setting
Demonstrated ability to explain clinic guidelines and legislation
Demonstrated ability to undertake performance reviews
Demonstrated ability to provide leadership, coaching and/or mentorship
Demonstrated management skills
Team development skills

Underpinning knowledge and skills:
Knowledge of philosophical tradition of science/western medicine
Knowledge of sociology of health and the health care system
Knowledge of ethical issues in natural medicine
Knowledge of OHS requirements in the workplace
Knowledge of the current political context of health care
Knowledge of the dynamic interchange between the physical, mental, social, environmental and spiritual landscape
Knowledge of the rationalistic, analytical approach to an understanding of disease
Knowledge of the vitalistic, empirical approach to health
Knowledge of the naturopathic integration of these approaches to health
Knowledge of the qualitative, quantitative, cultural and traditional lines of evidence used in naturopathy
Knowledge of the philosophy, principles and practices of other alternative and complementary therapies including homeopathy, herbal medicine, nutrition and bodywork
Knowledge of the principles of naturopathic practice: vis medicatrix naturae (the healing power of nature); tolle causam (identify and treat the cause); docere (doctor as teacher); treat the whole person; prevention
Knowledge of how naturopathy works with the conventional medical model
Knowledge of philosophy, principles and practices of the practice
Knowledge of ethical issues in management
Knowledge of OHS requirements in the workplace
Ability to identify ethical issues
Communication skills in one-to-one and group settings
Knowledge of management issues and responsibilities
Knowledge of industry standards
Knowledge of team development issues

Resource implications
Resource requirements may include:
Relevant texts or medical manuals
Relevant paper-based/video assessment instruments
Appropriate assessment environment
Skilled assessors

Method of assessment
Assessment may include:
Practical demonstration and simulations
Short tests and essays
Oral questioning and discussion
Case studies and scenarios

Context of assessment:
This unit is most appropriately assessed in the workplace or in a simulated workplace and under the normal range of work conditions. Assessment may contain both theoretical and practical components and examples covering a range of clinical situations.