Calls for naturopaths to be regulated

Health advocates say government regulation of naturopathy is overdue, with the near death of a NSW baby in May.

Health advocates are calling for regulation of naturopaths following the near death of an eight-month-old baby in NSW.

The Public Health Association of Australia says the tragic case of a baby who almost starved to death in May was preventable and predictable because naturopaths are unregulated.

Despite numerous state government reports recommending regulation of naturopathy, it remained one of Australia's largest unregistered professions, the association said in a statement on Friday.