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Homeopath & patient-a dyad of harmony?

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  • Frank, R.

Abstract

Within the last 20Â yr, heterodox medicine has become increasingly popular in western societies. Critics and advocates argue that the physician-patient relationship is a key factor to this success. This study which is based on 20 semi-structured interviews with homeopathic physicians in Berlin questions the notion of a purely consensual interaction. While we can find a certain degree of partnership between homeopathic physicians and their patients, there is a significant amount of negotiation and disagreement as well: The arenas are the revelation of the prescribed homeopathic remedy, patients' expectations, the physicians' fees and differing views on the appropriate duration of consultation. Consequently, a rather complex picture of the physician-patient interaction emerges which challenges the notion of a purely harmony- and consumer-oriented consultation in heterodox medicine. It does not seem possible straightforwardly to apply any of the existing theoretical models to the physician-patient relationship.

Suggested Citation

  • Frank, R., 2002. "Homeopath & patient-a dyad of harmony?," Social Science & Medicine, Elsevier, vol. 55(8), pages 1285-1296, October.
    • Handle: RePEc:eee:socmed:v:55:y:2002:i:8:p:1285-1296
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    Cited by:

    1. Kelner, Merrijoy & Wellman, Beverly & Welsh, Sandy & Boon, Heather, 2006. "How far can complementary and alternative medicine go? The case of chiropractic and homeopathy," Social Science & Medicine, Elsevier, vol. 63(10), pages 2617-2627, November.

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