According to an article in the Brattleboro Reformer, Vermont state Senate has passed a bill that will allow some services provided by licensed naturopathic physicians to be covered by insurance plans.

Supporters of the bill suggest it will save insurance costs in the long run, lower overall health costs and prevent duplication of services.

Naturopathic physicians are trained in both conventional and alternative medicines, and must earn a four-year postgraduate doctorate to be licensed.

According to the article, the bill that passed the Senate only requires insurance companies to cover those services in a naturopathic office that conventional doctors perform as well.

The next step for the bill is to move to a House committee next week.