Apply for a license to practice medicine (alternative practitioner)
Permit from the public health department to practice medicine professionally without being licensed as a physician (alternative practitioner’s license).
How to proceed
- 1
Submit an application to the public health department
Including a resume, a certificate of good conduct, and a medical certificate.
- 2
Medical Examination by a Public Health Officer
Written and oral sections on basic medical knowledge.
- 3
Issuance of the permit
Authorized to practice medicine under a license as a naturopath.
Required documents
- Certificate of Good ConductMandatory
- Certificate of HealthMandatoryOften forgotten
Responsible authority
The authority of your main place of residence is responsible.Find authority →
Fees
Varies by case
Processing time
approx. 3 months
Official: max. approx. 3 months
Online application
In person or by post
Common mistakes
- • Application submitted without proof of minimum age and a secondary school diploma
- • Preparation for the medical examination is often underestimated
Common reasons for rejection
- • Failed the medical examiner's knowledge test
- • Lack of medical fitness or reliability
You can usually file an objection against a rejection.
The essentials before applying
Who is eligible?
Individuals who wish to practice as alternative practitioners and have passed the required knowledge assessment.
Income limit
The limit varies by household and region – see the table at the responsible authority or in the application assistant.
Processing time
Nationwide: approx. approx. 3 months
Success rate
approx. 60.0 % (estimate)
Most common mistakes
- •Application submitted without proof of minimum age and a secondary school diploma
- •Preparation for the medical examination is often underestimated
Common reasons for rejection
- •Failed the medical examiner's knowledge test
- •Lack of medical fitness or reliability
Alternatives
- Check related services in the application assistant
- Use social counselling before applying
If rejected
File a written objection within 30 days – with reasons why the decision is wrong and any missing evidence.