Abstract
Homoeopaths in South Africa are currently working only in private practice. Previous studies have shown that patient satisfaction of homoeopathic treatment is favourable, however, information about the types of clinical conditions encountered and the outcomes of treatment of patients consulting with homoeopathic practitioners in private practice in the Gauteng region of South Africa is sparse. The quantitative descriptive study surveyed patients at seven homoeopathic practices across Gauteng with the use of a patient-reported outcome questionnaire. There were 201 respondents to the questionnaire over a five-month research period. The data was collected and analysed by means of Chi-squared test independence, split-file analysis and cross-tabulation of specific data. Homoeopathy was found to be utilised by respondents of all ages, particularly those of workingage (19-55 years old). Large proportions of respondents were reported for Pretoria (n=47), Sebokeng (n=40) and Blairgowrie (n=34). The results of the study found homoeopaths encounter conditions from various organ systems with the highest percentages relating to gastrointestinal (15,4 %), respiratory (15,4 %), musculoskeletal (12,4 %) and endocrine systems (12,4 %). From the reported conditions, respondents reported a positive change in their condition(s) (81,1 %), as well as their ability to cope with their condition (82,6 %) and overall well-being (81,6 %). Only a small number of respondents reported making use of adjunctive treatment (20,4 %) while a large number of respondents reported only making use of the care provided by their homoeopath (79,6 %). The high percentage of reported improvements in the clinical conditions (greater than 81 %) by patients of homoeopathic practitioners may infer a similar degree of satisfaction with this form of health service across a diverse range of conditions. The study was limited to a small number of representative practices in Gauteng and would require expansion in future studies. Additional limitations include the lack of detailed, nuanced perceptions of and satisfaction with professional homoeopathic services as well as objective verification of outcomes of treatment.
M.Tech. (Homeopathy)