Corpus Hahnemannicumproven and unproven in medicine

An independent reference on evidence-based medicine and the history of medical doctrines. Not a medical organisation, sells no products and does not replace a doctor's advice; in a life-threatening emergency call your local emergency number (in Russia 103 or 112).

Questions

Questions for a specialist

This site has no online consultations and no form for treatment questions: only a doctor who examines you can judge your health. But you can prepare for an appointment. Below are questions that help you understand what a recommendation is based on and calmly discuss anything that worries you.

Asking "what is this based on?" sounds like interest, not distrust. A good doctor is usually glad when a patient wants to understand.

— Editor's note

How this section works: the questions are grouped by situation. The answers show why each question is worth asking, but they do not replace a conversation with a professional.

On how reliable a method is

How well has this method been studied?

This question helps you see whether the recommendation rests on large studies and official guidance or, so far, on limited experience.

What can I expect, and how soon?

Realistic expectations help you avoid giving up on treatment too early and notice in time if something is going wrong.

What are the risks and limitations?

Any intervention that works can have unwanted effects, and it is better to know about them in advance.

What happens if I do nothing for now?

Sometimes watchful waiting is a sensible option, and sometimes delay is dangerous. The answer helps you weigh the decision.

On alternative practices

I am trying something extra — does that matter?

Yes. Your doctor needs to know about everything you are taking or trying, even if it seems harmless to you.

An unproven method helped a friend. Will it suit me?

Tell your doctor exactly what you have been advised. They can explain whether the method has any evidence and whether it might interfere with your main treatment.

Why don't you recommend homeopathy?

A doctor may point to official assessments: the NHMRC's 2015 review found no reliable evidence that it works, and in 2017 the Russian Academy of Sciences Commission against Pseudoscience called it a pseudoscience.

On second opinions

Is it all right to ask for a second opinion?

It is common practice, especially with a serious diagnosis or a difficult choice. You can tell your doctor so directly.

What should I bring to another specialist?

Discharge summaries, test results and a list of everything you are already receiving — that way the new doctor can get up to speed faster.

What if doctors' opinions differ?

Ask each of them to explain what their recommendation is based on. This helps you understand the disagreement and make a balanced decision.

  • Research

    How to read research: control groups, placebo, systematic reviews and levels of evidence.

  • Prevention

    How to spot an ad for a "miracle cure" and avoid losing time, money and health: a step-by-step check of the promises.

  • Glossary

    Terms from evidence-based medicine and medical history in plain words: from placebo to systematic review.

Sources

  • WHO — information for patients
  • NHMRC — Statement on Homeopathy (2015)
  • Russian Academy of Sciences Commission against Pseudoscience — memorandum on homeopathy (2017)

This page reflects the state of knowledge on the date it was prepared. Scientific assessments and official guidance are revised as new research appears, so make decisions about your health together with your doctor.