Online Lifestyle Magazine for Healthcare Workers by Pulse Uniform

Would you go to a Pastoral Doctor?

The credentials M.D. and R.N., and maybe N.P reminds you of Doctors  but what about PSC.D or D.PSc? What do they mean? Well according to the trend those letters refer to someone who practices pastoral medicine — or better known as “Bible-based” health care. These titles come from the Texas-based Pastoral Medical Association (PMA), which “licenses” practitioners and registers prospective patients as “members” who wish to receive care from these providers.

Bible

 

THE BIBLE BASED HEALTHCARE SYSTEM

It’s a relatively new title being used by some alternative health practitioners. The Texas-based Pastoral Medical Association gives out “pastoral provider licenses” in all 50 states and 30 countries. Some providers call themselves doctors of pastoral medicine. It would be wise to remember that these licenses are not medical degrees. Regulatory bodies are concerned that people are not being told the real story here.

WHO PRACTICES PASTORAL MEDICINE?

In recent years, the Texas Medical Board has sent about a dozen cease and desist orders to people using the pastoral medicine certification. Some hawk dubious supplements like colloidal silver, promise extreme weight loss, treat thyroid disorders and discourage vaccine use.

Many of these practitioners who showcase their pastoral medical degrees have great websites touting patient success stories to woo many others. According to the association’s website, to obtain a license, applicants must pass “rigid standards” that the group wouldn’t share. Members also have to pay processing and annual fees that can range from a few hundred dollars to a few thousand.

SO IS PASTORAL MEDICINE LEGIT?

We know that at times traditional medicine doesn’t have all the answers, and navigating what’s legit and true in the world of alternative medicine can be tough. The key is to really understand the qualifications of the person you are going to see. Just because someone puts initials of ‘DR’ in front of their name doesn’t mean they are medically qualified and can help you.



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