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Research: GUTHLIN and colleagues,
Listed in Issue 112
Abstract
GUTHLIN and colleagues, Department of Evaluation Research in Complementary Medicine, Institute of Environmental Medicine and Hospital Epidemiology, Freiburg University Hospital, Hugstetter Str. 55, D-79106 Freiburg, Germany, guethlin@ukl.uni-freiburg.de, have measured the effects of acupuncture and homeopathy in general practice.
Background
Despite increasing demand for acupuncture and homeopathy in general practice, little is known about the effectiveness of these therapies. This study, funded by a major health insurer, aimed at documenting these effects.
Methodology
Over 5000 acupuncture patients and over 900 homeopathy patients were followed for up to 4 years. Quality of life data (SF-36) and patient satisfaction were assessed. The insurer provided data on days off work.
Results
The treatments showed benefits both in patient satisfaction and quality of life measure, with medium to large sized effects on the SF-36 scale.
Conclusion
The results may account for the increasing popularity of acupuncture and homeopathy, particularly amongst patients with chronic conditions who are not satisfied with conventional medical care.
References
Guthlin C, Lange O, Walach H. Measuring the effects of acupuncture and homeopathy in general practice: an uncontrolled prospective documentation approach. BMJ Public Health 4 (1): 6, Mar 4, 2004.
