Homoeopathy in the public health system: Outcome data from the Homoeopathic Clinic of the Campo di Marte Hospital, Lucca, Italy (1998–2010)

AimThe aim of this study was to summarize 12 years of homoeopathic clinical practice in the Homoeopathic Clinic of Lucca Public Hospital (Italy) with particular attention to socio-demographic features of the patients, distribution of different diagnoses, follow-up and clinical outcome.MethodsData was reviewed from 2592 consecutive patients with a variety of clinical problems between 1998 and 2010. A smaller sample of 1129 patients returning for at least one follow up visit were analysed in order to evaluate changes in their clinical symptoms as assessed by Glasgow Homoeopathic Hospital Outcome Score.ResultsThe mean age of patients was 31 years, they were predominantly female and in many cases had already used conventional medicine for their diseases. The most common presentations were for symptoms concerning respiratory (29.4%), digestive tract (17%) and dermatological (14.7%) diseases. A total of 47% of patients reported major improvement or even resolution of their clinical picture (GHHOS +3+4); an extremely low percentage of treatment with no results (10%); and a negligible percentage of worsening (0.5%). The younger the age the more successful the therapy outcome (p < 0.001) and longer treatment appeared to give better results (p < 0.001).ConclusionsThe results support previous findings suggesting that homoeopathy may be associated with symptom improvement for a range of chronic and recurring diseases, although this claim needs to be supported by more thorough, randomized and controlled studies. The integration of homoeopathy in a public health system can ensure safety and the equity in access for the patient.