Focus on Alternative and Complementary Therapies
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Focus Alternat Complement Ther©2005 Pharmaceutical Press
Focus Altern Complement Ther 2004; 9: 26
Homoeopathy has been recognised as an area in need of further research. To date, research on the effectiveness of homoeopathy has led largely to inconclusive results, often attributed to methodological error. Little is known about individual homoeopathic practices and the level of consistency between them. This makes designing effective trials very difficult. There is also little known of the beliefs that homoeopaths hold regarding the underlying theory and research in their field. In this study, homoeopaths belonging to the Society of Homeopaths and the Faculty of Homeopaths from four different regions in the UK were surveyed on details of their mode of practice and beliefs. Differences in results from practitioners belonging to the two homoeopathic organisations were investigated. This study should provide some insight into issues of modern homoeopathic practice and acquire information useful in designing future studies and trials.
All homoeopathic practitioners listed by the Faculty of Homeopaths and the Society of Homeopaths from four geographical regions of the UK were surveyed on their views and practice (n = 400). Each practitioner received a questionnaire specifically designed for the study that covered conditions treated, the nature of the consultation, prescribing and views on homoeopathic theory, research and other CAM treatments. Ethical approval was sought but not required for the study.
Data collection and preliminary results for the study are currently ongoing but results and analysis will be available by the symposium date.
