The fact that naprapaths in Norway are now included among the licensed healthcare professions is a huge step forward for Norway and for all naprapaths. It is also a great recognition for the School of Naprapathy that the naprapathic education is of such high quality that it can serve as the basis for licensure not only in Sweden but also in Norway.
Licensure for naprapaths was introduced in Sweden by a parliamentary decision in 1994, and since 2006, "naprapath" has been a protected professional title. Finnish naprapaths also have a protected professional title, and since 2002, there has been a state-funded naprapathic education program at the University of Kotka, Finland.
The decision to grant licensure to naprapaths represents significant recognition for the profession and the form of care. Licensed naprapaths are therefore subject to the same laws as other healthcare professionals, which is a fundamental prerequisite for increased collaboration between naprapaths and other healthcare staff. This contributes to increased contact with other professional groups, which ultimately benefits the patient. Patients also receive a quality assurance signal regarding the individual naprapath's expertise and suitability for the profession.
Way to go, Norway, fantastic effort! Perhaps 2020 can end on a positive note after all!

Helène Schulte, Licensed Physician, PhD
Principal, School of Naprapathy