Positive Health Online

Abstract

RELTON and co-workers, HSR, Sheffield School for Health and Related Research, University of Sheffield, Sheffield S1 4DA, UK,  c.relton@sheffield.ac.uk, have conducted a pilot study on patients treated by homeopaths.

Background

There is little information on the types of symptoms for which patients request homeopathic treatment from Society of Homeopaths (SoH) homeopaths in the UK. The aim of this study was to gain information about characteristics of patients requesting treatment from SoH professional (non-medically qualified) homeopaths - including symptoms and general well-being.

Methodology

A survey was conducted among homeopaths.

Results

37 homeopaths returned data on 482 patients covering 1419 consultations over a 2-year period. Patients were mostly female and predominantly aged 40-59.

Conclusion

As well as obtaining preliminary data about these patients, this study has also resulted in greater knowledge of audit and research methods in the profession. The results of this preliminary descriptive study will inform a future, larger prospective controlled observational study.

References

Relton C, Chatfield K, Partington H, Foulkes L. Patients treated by homeopaths registered with the Society of Homeopaths: a pilot study. Homeopathy: the Journal of the Faculty of Homeopathy 96 (2): 87-89, Apr 2007.