Empowering patients – some thoughts on case taking
The homeopathic consultation is patient-centred. The consultation could largely be broken down into two parts: In the first part the patient shares their symptoms and the homeopath let the patient express themselves freely by providing a supportive environment; in the second part of the consultation, questions are asked to ensure that all the symptoms and complaints are explored. Unlike a consultation with a GP, homeopathic case taking will also include some unusual questions such as enquiring about the patients favourite taste, what they dislike to eat, what temperature they prefer, whether they are impacted by the weather or have any recurring dreams etc.
Behind this rather novel approach, homeopaths seek to understand the whole patient as an individual, making homeopathy a holistic approach. This allows a better understanding of the individual behind the disease and looks at the complete collection of symptoms displayed. No matter what the presenting complaint, the homeopath will take into account the mental, emotional and physical state.
Homeopathic remedies are then chosen, not on the basis of a single presenting symptom or a diagnosis, but on a much larger picture including the person’s constitution, past medical and life history, mental and emotional state, lifestyle and much more.
Homeopathic case taking is very much in line with humanistic psychology principles concerning the therapeutic relationship, which focuses on the empathy, authenticity, and unconditional acceptance from the practitioner. Understanding the patient’s symptoms as they are experienced, responding to what was expressed by the patient in a genuinely supportive way and being non-judgemental during the consultation allows patients to feel safe, heard and accepted – these are key practises in homeopathic case taking. This patient-centred approach can make the case taking itself a healing experience.
Case taking can often be an empowering experience for the patient, where they feel very actively involved in the process. In turn, this can help them to clarify the nature or the root cause of their problem, what changes they would like to make and what their desired outcome could be. These can form the basis of a contract between the patient and the practitioner, allowing the patient to be a fully engaged participant in their healing journey.
As I have been seeing patients in the St Clement’s Surgery in Winchester for two months now, I would like to acknowledge the welcome support and encouragement I am receiving from patients. Their feedback on their experience during case taking is important to me as this will shape my practice, and set the tone of the therapeutic relationship.
As our service sets up new ways of working from St Clements GP Surgery in Winchester, we are taking this opportunity refine our booking and payment methods. With the clinic presently working on a part-time basis, we now have a new phone line installed with an option of leaving voice messages. Please use our new number (033 33 401 021) for all queries. This will cost you the same as a local call. There are still things to sort out and I will keep you updated on these changes as we introduce them.