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To achieve scientific acceptance, homeopathy must investigate several questions: 1.The activity of very highly diluted preparations. The consensus of the meeting was that there is clear evidence of this.2.The content of very highly diluted homeopathic preparations. More research is needed but evidence exists that a specific signal is present in homeopathic preparations.3.A theoretical framework in which the effects of homeopathic diluted preparations can be explained. The ‘Body Information Theory’ is such a theory.4.The clinical effectiveness of homeopathy. Because they avoid the placebo effect, animal studies are a priority.

The analysis of data collected by applying information technology in daily practice opens the possibility of validating homeopathic prescribing symptoms. The author has collected data on repertory rubrics, homeopathic medicines prescribed, and clinical outcomes, for 16 years. As an example of clinical verification the outcomes of patients prescribed Veratrum albumare correlated against rubrics. Verat-awas presented to 24 patients, 52 rubrics were used. The data were analysed using the classical method and the likelihood ratios method. There is good correlation in the results given by these methods. Among the most important symptoms of Verat-aare: ailments from mortification, vomiting and cough in Spring.

Background. Observational studies have recently contributed useful information to the debate about the utility of homeopathic treatment in everyday practice.

A pilot survey of 1025 patients receiving homeopathic treatment in six European countries is reported. An initial questionnaire included demographic information and questions from health-related Quality of Life (QoL) scales. A follow-up questionnaire collected data on changes in QoL. The demographic characteristics of respondents were similar to previous studies. 82.8% of respondents had previously tried conventional treatments. Satisfaction with consultations was high. The changes of QoL status are positive but weak. 2.7% of patients experienced side-effects which they attribute to homeopathic treatment. 7.8% of patients reported significant aggravation at the beginning of the homeopathic treatment, 25.4% slight aggravation of symptoms. A new survey should be performed with a better motivation of doctors and patients. Further description of treatment would be helpful.