Massachusetts § 273 - Unauthorized practice of naturopathic medicine
Full text of Massachusetts Massachusetts General Laws § 273 — Unauthorized practice of naturopathic medicine, with citation guidance and answers to common questions.
§ 273. Unauthorized practice of naturopathic medicine
Section 273. (a) No person shall represent or assume the character or appearance of a licensed naturopathic doctor in the commonwealth unless that person is licensed under this chapter. A person who is not licensed under this chapter shall not use any of the following titles: naturopathic physician, naturopathic practitioner, natural doctor, naturopathic doctor, doctor of naturopathy, doctor of natural medicine, doctor of naturopathic medicine, NMD, doctor of nutritional medicine, N.D., naturopathic medicine, naturopath or any other term that indicates or implies that the person is licensed to practice any form of naturopathic health care.
(b) A licensed naturopathic doctor shall not use the term physician nor assume the character or appearance of a primary care provider.
(c) A person acting or purporting to act as a naturopathic doctor without first obtaining a license under this chapter shall be punished by a fine of not more than $5,000 or by imprisonment for not more than 1 year in a house of correction, or by both such fine and imprisonment. Upon conviction of a second or subsequent offense, the person shall be punished by a fine of not more than $10,000 or by imprisonment for not more than 2 years in a house of correction, or by both such fine and imprisonment.
(d) A person who receives money or an equivalent item of value as a fee, commission, compensation or profit by or as the consequence of a violation of sections 267 to 273, inclusive, shall, in addition to any other penalty, be liable for a fine of not less than the sum of the money so received and not more than 3 times the sum received, as determined by the board.
(e) There shall be no action brought by a person for recovery of compensation, nor actual recovery of compensation, for services rendered by that person as a licensed naturopathic practitioner unless that person held a current valid license under this chapter at the time the act or service was provided.
Source: official Massachusetts text · Last verified 2026-08-27
Frequently Asked Questions About Massachusetts § 273
What does Massachusetts General Laws § 273 cover?
Section 273 ("Unauthorized practice of naturopathic medicine") is part of the Massachusetts General Laws, the codified statutory law of Massachusetts. It sets out the legal rule or procedure described in the text above. Statutes are amended regularly, so always verify against the official source.
How do I cite Massachusetts § 273?
A common citation format is "Massachusetts General Laws § 273" (Massachusetts). Legal writing may require the code abbreviation, section number, and year or edition. Match the style required by your court, professor, or publisher.
Is this the official text of Massachusetts law?
No. This page is for research and education and may not include the most recent amendments. For official current law, check the Massachusetts official source linked on this page or consult a licensed Massachusetts attorney.
How does Massachusetts § 273 apply to my situation?
Statutes are interpreted in context, and application depends on your specific facts. Only a licensed attorney in Massachusetts can advise on how this section applies to you. Contact your state or local bar association for a referral.
Sources & Verification
Not legal advice. Verify against the official source and consult a licensed attorney in Massachusetts.