ANTA Response to NHMRC Draft Information Paper on Homeopathy

ANTA strongly believes in evidence based natural medicine practice in Australia. As an organisation representing natural therapists including homeopaths we only admit members who have completed government accredited courses and ANTA provides all members with access to the latest global scientific reports and research databases to ensure evidence based practice is integrated with patient management.

It has been suggested by some that that the draft Information Paper on Homeopathy states Homeopathy does not work. This is not the case. What the report attempts to highlight is that there is currently insufficient evidence to show Homeopathy is effective. It is important to understand this distinction within the methodology of science and not jump to conclusions.

Through the review currently being undertaken by the Dept Health & Ageing into Private Health Insurance Rebates, ANTA has provided the NHMRC with numerous studies and research that demonstrate Homeopathy's  effectiveness.

The NHMRC has spent considerable time and funding preparing a draft Information Paper on Homeopathy rather than using available funds to undertake much needed research into Homeopathy. We believe it to be in the public's best interest for the NHMRC to instead direct funding and resources towards a more positive preventative healthcare model that embraces and not excludes, potentially viable and cost effective treatment options such as Homeopathy.

Every year the NHMRC provides funding for research into a variety of health areas and ANTA calls on the NHMRC to provide funding to support research into Homeopathy to benefit the health of all Australians through the creation of knowledge.

Related:

NHMRC releases complementary medicine resource and opens public consultation on draft Information Paper on homeopathy