In 2007, the Freshwater Trust Portland Triathlon became the first triathlon in the country to host a naturopathic medical tent. The tent is staffed, directed, and organized by the National College of Natural Medicine (NCNM), the oldest of the accredited naturopathic medical schools in the United States.

In the state of Oregon, naturopathic doctors (NDs) are licensed as primary care physicians. A naturopathic degree is similar in scope, depth, and rigor to that of a medical doctor (MD), but encompasses a variety of other modalities such as botanical medicine, hydrotherapy, homeopathy, nutrition, and physical medicine. In addition to these unique modalities, naturopaths receive training in minor surgery, IV therapy, and emergency medicine.

The guiding principles of naturopathic medicine will be familiar to triathletes who practice the sport to bring about whole body wellness. A fit body, mind and soul achieved through athletic participation mirror the basic tenets of naturopathic medicine:

• First, do no harm
• Treat the whole person
• Treat the underlying cause
• The healing power of nature
• Doctor as teacher
• Prevention

 

The complete triathlon medical team also includes paramedic and ambulance support from American Medical Response (AMR). AMR, the largest private ambulance service provider in the nation, actively involves itself in local events to serve its communities on a personal basis.

This combination of skilled medical practitioners ensures that the triathlon will be capable of responding to any medical situations that arise on race day.