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Homeopathy 2003; 92(04): 213-216
DOI: 10.1016/j.homp.2003.08.015
Education and Debate
Copyright ©The Faculty of Homeopathy 2003

Is assessment of likelihood ratio of homeopathic symptoms possible? A pilot study

ALB Rutten
1   Commissie Methode en Validering VHAN (Dutch Association of Homeopathic Physicians), Aard 10, 4813 NN Breda, The Netherlands
,
C.F Stolper
1   Commissie Methode en Validering VHAN (Dutch Association of Homeopathic Physicians), Aard 10, 4813 NN Breda, The Netherlands
,
RFG Lugten
1   Commissie Methode en Validering VHAN (Dutch Association of Homeopathic Physicians), Aard 10, 4813 NN Breda, The Netherlands
,
RWJM Barthels
1   Commissie Methode en Validering VHAN (Dutch Association of Homeopathic Physicians), Aard 10, 4813 NN Breda, The Netherlands
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Further Information

Publication History

Received23 April 2003
revised18 July 2003

accepted11 August 2003

Publication Date:
22 December 2017 (online)

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Abstract

A pilot study was performed to investigate the possibilities and restrictions of likelihood ratio (LR) investigation using three symptoms. Qualitative vagueness and expectation bias is inherent in our method, but is, in part avoidable. It appears that experienced observers assess common homeopathic symptoms quite similarly. Clinical judgement is an essential part of our work and should be preserved during assessment of LR. The assessment does not influence clinical practice and can be maintained for a long period, provided the appropriate software is used. A limited range of symptoms seems most suitable for LR investigation.

Keywords

likelihood ratio - vagueness - repertory
 

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