Put more emphasis on scientific research
Pranab Ghosh interviews Dr (Mrs) Anil K Malhotra, principal, NHMCH
What are the branches one can specialise in?
After completing BHMS one can specialise in the following subjects: a) Materia Medica, study of homoeopathic drugs; b) Organon of 
medicine, study of homoeopathic philosophy; c) Repertory, which is indexing of symptoms; d) Pharmacy; e) Practice of Medicine; f) Paediatrics; g) Psychology. In NHMCH, however, postgraduation is available in two subjects — Organon of Medicine and Practice of Medicine.
Where can a homoeopathic doctor find employment?
After getting a BHMS degree from a recognised institute, one has a number of options, like teaching, private practice, research, etc. One can also work as a medical officer at dispensaries of Delhi government, Municipal Corporation of Delhi and New Delhi Municipal Corporation; in the Central Government Health Scheme (CGHS); in Employees’ State Insurance Corporation (ESIC) and in National Rural Health Mission.
Are there adequate numbers of skilled professionals in the field?
Yes, there are, thanks to the good number of recognised homoeopathic colleges in the country. There is a need for more.
What are the challenges one faces in this profession?
The challenge is to establish that homoeopathy is absolutely scientific. The need of the hour is to build a database of scientific evidence in support of homoeopathy. Doctors practising homoeopathy should adopt a better method of record-keeping of successful clinical cases and publish those to make people learn more about the efficacy of homoeopathy. There should be more emphasis on scientific research. In NHMCH, research is being conducted on various diseases like bronchial asthma, psoriasis, gynaecological disorders, arthritis, lifestyle disorders, psychiatric problems, renal and gallstones, paediatric and geriatric disorders, etc.
Compared to other branches of medical treatment, what are the advantages of homoeopathy?
Homoeopathy provides safe and effective treatment for a variety of diseases. The cost of treatment is comparatively less.
Author: HT Horizons
Date: 11th Feb., 2010
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