NICM Position Statement | NHMRC Homeopathy review

Today the National Health and Research Council announced the findings of their review into Homeopathy.  The media release can be accessed online at http://bit.ly/1NHKuBA and the NHMRC statement on Homeopathy at http://bit.ly/1EVlsLp .

As anticipated, the announcement has received media attention, with stories being posted today online from media outlets such as AAP, news.com.au, ABC, and several more.
Our position is a very measured response and approach as Professor Bensoussan has already provided formal feedback to the NHMRC about the review.  Our approach and preference here is to reserve the major public debate should NHMRC release their Natural Therapies Review findings. NICM’s position statement is as follows:

Today’s Homeopathy review conducted by the National Health and Medical Research Council (NHMRC) is a step in the right direction. There is an ethical and scientific imperative to undertake research into the potential benefits and risks of complementary medicine as it is used and practised within the Australian context.
The National Institute of Complementary Medicine (NICM) advocate valid and comprehensive baseline data. As best practise, rigorous assessment should include a systematic review of randomised controlled trials, which was absent because of funding constraints.

It is important that the NHMRC continue to maintain national audits and reviews to provide Australians with the best and safest form of healthcare, and for this we commend the Australian Government.

The NICM strives to promote and facilitate scientific research into complementary medicine within Australia, and encourages the dissemination of independent information about complementary medicine so Australians and their healthcare providers can make more informed choices.

The NICM encourages individuals to take charge of their health by being proactive and informed:

  • Find out and consider what scientific studies have been done on the safety and effectiveness of the product or practice you are considering
  • Discuss the information with your healthcare professional before making a decision, keeping them fully informed on your decision and use of complementary medicine
  • Encourage an open dialogue between your healthcare professionals (conventional and complementary) about your healthcare

We will be working with Complementary Medicines Australia, who have issued a strong response this afternoon, and who are also lobbying in Canberra – attached is their statement. 150311 CMA Statement_Homeopathy (PDF)

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