Abstract

Implementation of Homeopathy in the Public Health System of Switzerland

In Switzerland, homeopathy is practiced by both medical and non-medical homeopaths. Medical homeopaths are doctors who have completed a full conventional medical education as specialist doctor and who have an additional homeopathic qualification, which is certified by the Swiss Association of Homeopathic Physicians (SVHA) and recognized by the Swiss Institute for Medical Education (SIWF). Most of these doctors work in general practice, and some also work in public and private clinics. Consultations with medical homeopaths, as well as the homeopathic remedies they prescribe, are covered by Switzerland's mandatory national public health insurance. Non-medical homeopaths generally have no conventional medical training; basic medical training and homeopathic education are provided by several private schools, which normally takes several years to complete. In order to practice homeopathy as a non-medical homeopath, a professional examination must be passed and a certificate awarded by the Swiss government must be obtained. Consultations with non-medical homeopaths, as well as homeopathic remedies prescribed by them, may be covered by private health insurance companies.