Dear Doctors,

Professional Conduct Alert

The recent wave of press and media interest in homeopathy has resulted in
several people actively searching for homeopaths on the web, through
members’ web pages and also through those who run a blog, (an on-line
diary).

The intention appears to be to entrap homeopaths into making excessive
claims as to the benefits of homeopathy in treating or curing named
diseases. Typically the caller or emailer will ask for advice about a named
disease and what you would suggest.

e.g. ‘what advise would you give to a person who has just had a diagnosis of

cancer/TB/MS –‘?

The callers are then contacting the Society Professional Conduct Department
citing a breach in our Code of Ethics and Practice. Para 48 & 72.

Evidence they provide is often selective, so that the quotes misrepresent
what has been written or said.

The Society is obliged to investigate every complaint that is made.

Suggestions you may find helpful if you do get enquiries,
• You are entitled to voice an opinion but you need to state it as
such.
• Where possible point them to research.
• If you are writing a blog always put in a disclaimer at the top of
the posting along
the lines of

Disclaimer: Any views or advice in this weblog should not be taken as a
substitute for medical advice or treatment, especially if you know you have
a specific health complaint.

• Please remember to keep notes of telephone conversations

Even though the problem is currently applicable to Europe and US it can also
trouble us here in UAE.
So have some caution.

Regards,
Moderator.

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