Theses and dissertations (Health Sciences)
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Item Homoeopathic perceptions of gut dysbiosis as a clinically significant obstacle to cure(2024) Hendriks, Marizel; Ghuman, ShanazEchoing Hippocrates' notion that “All diseaes begin in the gut”, recent scientific research strengthens the connection between gut microbial health with overall well-being. This study delves into how South African homoeopathic practitioners address gut dysbiosis, a microbial imbalance within the gut linked to various chronic conditions. Homoeopaths interviewed for this study observed a rise in gut dysbiosis, attributing it to factors like lifestyle choices and medication use. Their treatment approach emphasizes individualized remedies and therapies tailored to each patient's unique physical, mental, and emotional symptoms. Treatment plans often incorporate dietary modifications, alongside the use of probiotics and prebiotics to support gut health. The study reveals gut dysbiosis as a significant obstacle to cure in homoeopathic treatment. The high cost of stool analysis tests restricts their use in assessing gut health, making it challenging for the interviewed homoeopaths to arrive at a diagnosis. Participants expressed a strong need for more comprehensive education on gut dysbiosis and bowel nosodes within the South African homoeopathic training curriculum. In conclusion, this study suggests that gut dysbiosis presents a clinically significant obstacle to cure in homoeopathic treatment for chronic conditions. A holistic approach combining homoeopathic remedies with dietary and lifestyle changes appears to be effective. Further research is warranted to enhance homoeopathic education on gut health and its impact on chronic diseases.Item A retrospective chart review on the homoeopathic management of concomitant ailments occurring in HIV positive patients, at a homoeopathic community health centre(2024) Khan, Aisha; Maharaj, MadhueshwareeStatistically, South Africa has the largest human immunodeficiency virus (HIV) epidemic worldwide and in 2018 reportedly had the highest number of HIV positive (HIV+) cases at 7.7 million. According to the Human Sciences Research Council (HSRC) (2018), HIV prevalence is highest in KwaZulu-Natal (KZN) and subprovincially in eThekwini municipality of KZN (Shisana et al. 2014). The South African health care system is overwhelmed with its HIV treatment programme and faces the challenges of being under resourced and health care workers being overworked. Mainstream antiretrovirals (ARV) used in the management of HIV have clinically significant drug interactions with mainstream medical drugs used to treat concomitant disease, which then require monitoring and adjustment of doses due to reduced therapeutic outcome or adverse effects or contraindicating relevant drugs which increase in toxicity (SAMF 2020 and Schaleppi et al. 2020). Further consideration is the growing problem of antibiotic resistance amongst PLWH due to over prescription, whether clinically indicated or for prophylactic purpose for commonly seen HIV concomitant ailments. Upon review of the literature, it was evident that there has been no published study undertaken to establish the trends in the homoeopathic management of HIV concomitant pathology at a community health centre in KZN. The aim of this study was to determine trends which could highlight the benefit of complementary homoeopathic treatment of HIV concomitant ailments within the South African health care context. In doing so, homoeopathy may then be considered on a larger scale as a contribution to the possible improvement of patient well-being, in terms of reduction of medical costs, and alleviation on strained health care human resources. Thus, this study undertook a retrospective chart review for the period 2015 to 2016 of newly treated HIV+ patients at Ukuba Nesibindi Homoeopathic Community Health Centre (UNHCHC). UNHCHC is a Durban University of Technology (DUT) satellite homoeopathic community health centre (HCHC) offering free homoeopathic healthcare service. It is located in Warwick junction within the eThekwini municipality. The Centre shares premises with LifeLine which provides free HIV counselling, testing as well as HIV counselling skills training, thus placing UNHCHC in a prime position to treat referrals therefrom. This was therefore a suitable site for data collection for this study. Aim of the study The aim of this study was to determine the homoeopathic management of concomitant ailments occurring in new patients that are HIV+, at a homoeopathic community health centre within the period 2015 to 2016. The aim was guided by the following objectives: • ascertain the demographics, • the concomitant clinical conditions or ailments occurring in these HIV+ cases, • the homoeopathic prescriptions for these ailments, • and the guiding symptoms that supported the homoeopathic management. The results of the study were analysed to establish whether any trends emerged by virtue of how commonly occurring the ailments and prescriptions were noted. Methodology The methodology employed for this study was a retrospective chart review which entailed the gathering and subsequent organisation of pre-documented data, i.e., review of existing data. A total of 113 case files of HIV+ patients who had newly attended UNHCHC in the period between 2015 and 2016 were first identified, reviewed, and data collated using a standard rubric (Appendix E). Data on the demographics, concomitant conditions, homoeopathic posology, and case symptoms, was recorded to extract guiding symptoms for the homoeopathic prescription. The data obtained was organised and summarised through spreadsheet tabulation and descriptive statistics were presented through graphs using Microsoft Excelâ (MS Excel). Further thematic analysis was conducted to infer, discuss and compare patterns and trends in the description and treatment of HIV concomitant pathologies. The homoeopathic management employed based on the guiding symptoms was discussed by comparing the arising symptoms with existing homoeopathic materia medica. The study thus explored, analysed and described HIV concomitant pathology patterns, homoeopathic prescription trends, and comparative materia medica prescription verification, to ascertain the trends of homoeopathic management of the diverse HIV concomitant ailments seen at a community health centre facility such as UNHCHC. Results and conclusion In this retrospective chart review the sample size was 113 HIV positive cases with 81% of the sample group being female, 19% male, 97% black African, and the largest age group was 30-34 years of age (21%). Slightly more participants were employed (44%) than unemployed (41%. The majority of participants were single (72%). Of the 113 HIV positive cases reviewed, 124 concomitant conditions emerged in the dataset. The distribution of these conditions as per systemic categorisation was the respiratory system (22%), followed by, dermatological (20%) and gastrointestinal (16%). Overall, the most common ailments were influenza (15%), dermatitis (8%), headache (7%), urinary tract infection (UTI) (6%), leucorrhoea (4%) and herpes zoster (4%). Analysis of the posology of homoeopathic medicine prescription revealed that overall Bryonia alba (11%) and Natrum muriaticum (7%), were most frequently prescribed for various concomitant ailments. The most frequently prescribed potency was 200CH. Bryonia alba was prescribed most frequently for the influenza cases (29%), while Sulphur was frequently prescribed for dermatitis (45%). Cantharis versicatoria was frequently prescribed for UTI (57%). Echinaforceâ was the most commonly prescribed adjunctive herbal medicine (22%). Thus, the aim and the objectives of this study were achieved.Item A qualitative study on the treatment practices of complementary and alternative medicine practitioners in the treatment and management of Gastro Oesophageal reflux disease(2024) Naidoo, Ashadré; Couchman, Ingrid Marcelline Stephanie; Ducray, J. F.Background Gastro Oesophageal Reflux Disease is a digestive disorder that occurs when stomach acid frequently flows up into the oesophagus and irritates the oesophageal cell lining and damages the lower oesophageal sphincter. This condition is commonly known as Acid Reflux or Regurgitation, encompassing a range of different disorders such as dyspepsia and pyrosis and in some cases may cause difficulty swallowing. There may be a sour or bitter taste at the back of the mouth due to reflux of acid. Gastro Oesophageal Reflux Disease is difficult to treat successfully. Prolonged Gastro Oesophageal Reflux Disease leads to injury and inflammation of the oesophageal lining resulting in a condition known as Barrett’s Oesophagus, with complications such as oesophageal cancer, ulceration and stricture of the oesophagus. Gastro Oesophageal Reflux Disease is commonly seen in pregnant women and individuals with hiatal hernias that suffer from dyspepsia and pyrosis, it is also commonly seen as a side effect of medication and, more commonly, stress and anxiety related effects. Gastro Oesophageal Reflux Disease and other gastrointestinal disorders are caused due to stress related inflammation which occurs in patients with stressful lifestyles. Aim of study This study aimed to identify the possible therapeutic practices and management of Gastro Oesophageal Reflux Disease from diagnosis to treatment plans by various Complementary and Alternative Medicine protocols within the context of their philosophical backgrounds. Furthermore, this research study would document valuable information of six different Complementary and Alternative Medicine modalities. These modalities are Traditional Chinese Medicine, Ayurveda, UnaniTibb, Homoeopathy and Reflexology. Methodology The research methodology has utilized a qualitative design incorporating semistructured interviews of twelve Complementary and Alternate Medicine practitioners in the eThekwini area on their treatment of Gastro Oesophageal Reflux Disease. Interviews were done with each Complementary and Alternative Medicine practitioner at a place that was convenient to each practitioner. The interviews were recorded on a Dictaphone and a mobile audio recorder. Each interview was 30 minutes long and was guided by research questions. A stratified purposive sampling was implemented in order to select practitioners according to their modality in the provinces of South Africa exclusively. A pilot study was conducted to ensure trustworthiness and Ethics approval was sort from the Durban University of Technology Institutional Research Ethics Committee (IREC) Analysis of data utilized qualitative design methods that would produce themes and concepts from the information collected. Results The findings of this study showed that Gastro-oesophageal Reflux Disease can be interpreted by many Complementary and Alternative Medicine modalities according to different philosophies such as Miasms, Temperaments, Systemic Meridians and Doshas. Each Complementary and Alternative Medicine philosophy is governed by a set of factors that requires homeostasis to produce optimal health. Despite the various philosophical theories, all modalities were underpinned by the same principle that Gastro Oesophageal Reflux Disease is caused by a constitutional imbalance. This is characterized, in modern times, by inflammation, acidic build up, emotional and mental health and physical conditions, being understood as contributing factors of Gastro Oesophageal Reflux Disease, thus the theme of individualization was the key understanding in the treatment and management protocols. Each Complementary and Alternative Medicine modality prescribed well indicated herbal medicine in conjunction with lifestyle modification best suited for each patient individually. Management included therapies such as acupuncture, yoga, cupping and calming exercises. Furthermore, each modality “borrowed” medicines or therapies from other modalities in order to enhance the efficacy of the treatment and management of Gastro Oesophageal Reflux Disease. Conclusion It was concluded that Gastro Oesophageal Reflux Disease needs a multidimensional approach of treatment and management. Lifestyle changes, medication (herbs and remedies), stress management and dietary changes are needed to correct and manage Gastro Oesophageal Reflux Disease along with reducing or preventing the risk of complications that can manifest. Overall, the treatment and management through Complementary and Alternative Medicine modalities can improve the quality of life of patients with Gastro Oesophageal Reflux Disease. 7Item Prevalence, traditional medicine use and co-morbidities among type 2 diabetes mellitus in outpatients - a cross sectional hospital-based survey in KwaZulu-Natal(2022-09-29) Chetty, Lauren; Reddy, Poovendhree; Govender, NaliniThroughout the world, diabetes mellitus (DM) affects people of all ages, irrespective of gender and ethnicity, and impacts both rural and urban areas, as well as developing and developed countries. The prevalence of DM in sub-Saharan Africa is a significant public health burden which is attributed to inadequate health care funding, limited medicinal access and the disproportionate provision of resources between private and public health care. Approximately 451 million adults worldwide have diabetes, with predictions of 693 million cases by 2045. Moreover, Type II diabetes mellitus (T2DM) accounts for approximately 90% of diabetics, making it the most common type. Premature morbidity and mortality are associated with it, leading to micro- and macrovascular complications. There is a growing trend for patients to use traditional medicine (TM) commonly known as complementary and alternative medicine in most countries, in an attempt to eliminate or minimize the consequences of their illnesses and improve their general health. Therefore, this study aimed to determine the prevalence and, extent of traditional medicine use and co-morbidities among T2DM in a regional hospital in KwaZulu-Natal. This was a quantitative and cross-sectional study made up of 2 phases. Phase 1 was based on a retrospective chart review of all outpatients who were treated for T2DM between August 2018- January 2019. Demographic data and existing comorbidities were obtained from the hospital registers. Phase 2 involved the prospective recruitment of participants using a structured questionnaire, to determine their use of home remedies/ traditional medicine for T2DM and their co-morbidities thereof. Data from phase 1 revealed significantly more female patients (3072) compared to male patients (1050) (p<0.001). Majority of the outpatients (77.42%) presenting with T2DM over the 6-month period were between the ages of 45 years and 74 years. There was a significant correlation between Indian female patients who presented with T2DM compared with African female patients (p<0.05). The more frequent comorbidities experienced by patients were hypertension (3212) and cardiovascular problems (460) with a prevalence of 77.9% and 11.16%, respectively. The likelihood of presenting with comorbidities increased significantly with age. Logistic regression test found that female patients with T2DM were at significantly higher risk of presenting with hypertension (odds ratio [OR] = 1.44, 95% CI:1.20;1.71), arthritis (OR = 2.20, 95% CI:1.51;3.20) and anaemia (OR = 2.42, 95% CI:1.40;4.19), whilst their risk for cardiovascular problems was significantly lower compared to male patients (OR = 0.67, 95% CI: 0.54;0.83). The results obtained in phase 2 indicated that out of a total of 340 participants (n=244) included, 72% of them were female. T2DM was most prevalent in those aged 45 to 59 (47.94%). Out of 340 participants, only 92 (27%) used TM most often, with Indians (58.24%) being the most frequent users. Nearly 78 % of patients (n = 101) were using TM in conjunction with hospital medication. Families and friends were the most common sources of TM knowledge. Lemon and honey, Aloe vera, bitter gourd or karela, green tea, cinnamon, curry leaves and tulsi leaves were reported as the most commonly used TM. Traditional medicine use was predicted by various factors, including gender, race, age, education, residence, and presence of DM, however, no significant predictors for TM usage was noted among the variables tested. Traditional medicine use among African participants was 0.56 times (OR=0.56, 95% CI=0.34, 0.93), lower than that of Indian participants. Demographic factors, such as gender, ethnicity, and age, influenced the prevalence of T2DM and comorbidities. To allocate medical resources effectively and according to the true burden of disease from complications caused by T2DM, flexible and adaptive approaches are needed for prevention and management of T2DM cases. Furthermore, the study highlighted a low prevalence rate of TM usage (27.06%) in T2DM patients. Traditional medicine was predominately used among females and ethnicity was found to be a significant predictor of TM usage. The data from this study can be used to develop a tracking system, which will inform the health care systems with current information and may reduce the exponential rise of the number of patients suffering from DM. Future research is needed to determine if herbal therapies are effective therapeutic options in managing T2DM due to their safety and multiple targeting effects. Traditional medicine/ home remedies may be more effective in the development of anti-diabetic drugs if systematic data regarding their structure, activity, and mode of action is collected.Item A repertorial analysis of the homoeopathic remedies indicated in pica in pregnancy(2022-09-29) Kaneza, Nadia; Maharaj, MIntroduction Pica refers to the consumption of non-food items or items with no nutritional value. This phenomenon is often seen among children, individuals with developmental disabilities and pregnant women. Pica has been extensively studied in children, but is understudied in pregnant women. This study focused on pica occurring during pregnancy, seeking to determine homoeopathic remedies that can be used in treating pica occurring during pregnancy. Aim of the study The aim of this study was to determine by repertorial analysis and explore the homoeopathic remedies indicated for treating pica during pregnancy. Methodology The study design of this study was two-fold: a qualitative investigation on pica experiences during pregnancy was carried out through interviews with 12 women who have experienced pica in their pregnancy. These women were sampled using the purposive sampling method. The analysis of this qualitative aspect followed Tesch’s eight step qualitative data analysis method. The experiences described by the participants were then subjected to a repertorial analysis using a homoeopathic repertory book called “Synthesis” of Dr. Frederick Schroyens. Remedies emerging from this repertorisation were then reviewed by use of materia medicas. Results Findings showed that for the majority of the participants, cravings for non-food items started in their first trimester and worsened in their third trimester as labour got closer. The results also revealed that geophagia was the most common form of pica practiced during pregnancy, followed by pagophagia. It was also revealed that iron deficiency or anaemia of some sort, as well as the smell, taste, texture and appearance of the craved substances, were highly linked to pica habits during pregnancy. The study also revealed that pica during pregnancy occurred with other pregnancy symptoms such as nausea, vomiting, headache, backache, etc, and that apart from non-food items, participants also craved food items, mostly sweet, sour and spicy food. Findings also showed that constipation (especially for those consuming geophagic items) and a sense of satisfaction, were the most common physical and emotional effects associated with pica practice during pregnancy. Still on the emotional plane, findings were that the most common emotional response that participants had with regards to the experience of pica during pregnancy was guilt and worry over their health and of their unborn children. The study also revealed that the majority of participants responded with anger to their loved ones who advised them against their pica habits. Finally, the repertorisation of the above experiences as described by the participants and the review of the emerging remedies revealed that Nux vomica and Alumina were the most suited remedies for pica occurring in pregnancy, followed by Sepia officinalis, Natrum muriaticum and Pulsatilla pratensis. Conium maculatum and Silicea terra were also shown to be good differential remedies for pica during pregnancy. Conclusion Of the homoeopathic remedies already in use for treating pica, some remedies such as Alumina, Nux vomica and Silicea terra, may also be used to treat pica specifically occurring in pregnancy. The study showed that there is a need to educate pregnant women about pica practice and raise awareness among pregnant women and their families regarding the harmful consequences that pica practice might have on both mother and baby.Item Investigating the perceptions and experiences of parents and guardians regarding paediatric Homoeopathic care received from Homoeopaths in the eThekwini Municipality(2022-09-29) Strauss, Tylah; Hall, Cornelia Maria; Erwin, KiraBackground: Homoeopathy is a Complementary and Alternative Medicine (CAM) therapy that is based on the law of similars – “Let Likes be Cured by Likes" – whereby substances that are capable of causing diseases in healthy people can be used in an infinitesimal dose as remedies to treat the similar disorder in someone who is ill. Globally homoeopathy is receiving greater recognition nowadays, particularly for its use in children. This is a result of parents seeking out treatments which they believe to be more tailored and "natural". However, this same trend is not mirrored in a South African setting. Despite there being a greater recognition of homoeopathy, the research on homoeopathy in South Africa (especially paediatric homoeopathy) is scarce and overseas trends cannot be extrapolated to a South African population. Therefore, this study aimed to fill a gap in the literature by exploring and describing the perceptions and experiences of parents and legal guardians regarding paediatric homoeopathy care received from homoeopaths in the eThekwini Municipality. Objectives: The aim of the study was to investigate the perceptions and experiences of parents and legal guardians regarding paediatric homoeopathic care received from homoeopaths in the eThekwini Municipality. Methods: A qualitative study was conducted using semi-structured interviews. This study was conducted on 12 parents regarding paediatric homoeopathy care received from one of the homoeopaths in the eThekwini Municipality. The interviews began with a 'grand tour' question followed by other approved questions to gauge these perceptions and experiences. The interviews were conducted in English and later transcribed verbatim. The transcripts were analysed using Tesch's 8-step approach to qualitative research, whereby specific recurring themes are extracted from the data. Results: A total of 12 participants were interviewed. Four major themes emerged from the data: perceptions of homoeopathy, experiences of homoeopathy, challenges to homoeopathy and their possible solutions, homoeopathy versus allopathy, and an unplanned emergent theme of motherhood. The participants had varying levels of knowledge of homoeopathy depending on their level of connection (i.e. those with a close friend/relative who was in the profession had a better understanding). There were uniform perceptions of homoeopathy being "natural", "gentle", allusions to the law of similars and principle of the minimum dose, individualistic treatment and the stimulation of the vital force in order to allow the body to heal itself. Homoeopathic medication had perceptions of having no side-effects, having the ability to treat a wide array of conditions, and difficult dosages to adhere to. The overall experiences of homoeopathy were exceedingly positive. The participants commented on the thoroughness of the consult, the need for the practitioner to delve deep to find out the cause for the disease, the availability of the practitioner and the empathy and care felt. Awareness and education to the public, public access of OTC homoeopathic remedies, multi-disciplinary approach to paediatric management and integration into public healthcare proved to be the most beneficial solutions. When comparing homoeopathy to allopathy, we see that the homoeopathic holistic approach (whereby all symptoms are considered and there is an attempt to treat on more than just the physical plane) is preferred, there is a great mistrust with the pharmaceutical industry and participants wanted to be active participants in selecting which form of healthcare they chose. Mothers proved to be a valuable source in gaining awareness and mouth-to-mouth referral; their role in paediatric healthcare is paramount. Conclusion: Overall there were positive perceptions and experiences of homoeopathy, however, greater effort needs to be placed on education of the public, building relationships with other professionals and integration into public health care. Future studies should assess a wider catchment area, include quantitative research to get statistical evidence of efficacy, conduct in-person interviews to assure the quality of the data and include the role of mothers in future paediatric healthcare. Recommendations for the homoeopathic community include making information accessible to patients, increasing awareness of homoeopathy to the public and building inter-professional relationships and integrating into public healthcare.Item An assessment of the marketing strategies used by Homeopathic Practitioners in the eThekwini Municipality(2022-09-29) Gumbi, Sandile Oswald; Hall, Cornelia Maria; Kamwendo, Andrew RonaldHomeopathy has been practised in South Africa for over 100 years, but thevast majority of South Africans have never heard of it. Only a small number of SouthAfricans use homeopathy, and it is largely unknown to many South Africans becauseit is only available through private health care, with only 20%of the populationestimated to belong to private healthcare schemes. There has been no study to examine the utilisation of marketing strategiestopromote homeopathy. A recent study at the University of Johannesburgreflectedthat students were not aware of homeopathy and the reason behindthiswasbecause of the lack of promotion and marketing of homeopathy. This researchinvestigates the marketing strategies used by practicing homeopaths intheeThekwini municipality area. The study aimed to determine the marketingstrategiesused and to evaluate successful application of these marketing strategies for patient acquisition. Furthermore, the study investigated the homeopathic practitioners’ attitudes towards the marketing strategies used to market homeopathic services. Data was gathered using semi-structured in-depth interviews with 12 participantsover a period of 45 minutes. The sampling used in this qualitative studywaspurposive and snowball sampling. The study followed a constructivismparadigm. After the study was completed, the researcher used qualitative thematicdataanalysis, which enabled the researcher to reach certain findings. The study results revealed four themes word-of-mouth, aversion to theuseof marketing, additional services are the key method of differentiation in themarket, and electronic word-of-mouth. The study made several important recommendations for marketing homeopathicpractices, the main one being that training and meetings on marketing shouldbeprovided by the Allied Health Professions Council of South Africa (AHPCSA) topractitioners in order to assist them in understanding what is and is not allowedinmarketing. In conclusion, there was a need to assess the marketing strategies that areusedbyhomeopaths for acquiring new customers, as studies have indicated that theinabilityto obtain new patients is due to poor awareness of homeopathy, which canleadtothe failure in growth of their practices. This research has revealed that thereisalackof understanding of what marketing is and its application in the healthcarespacebyboth the practitionersItem Religious review of homoeopathic medicines in the eThekwini district(2022-05-13) Lin, Jessica Hsin-Tzu; Couchman, Ingrid; Hall, Cornelia MariaIntroduction The purpose of this study was to draw up a list of problematic homoeopathic medications and remedies that conflict with religious restrictions. This research will be considering religions that are most prevalent in South Africa according to the general household survey of 2015 (Census 2015). These were: Christianity, Islam, Judaism, Hinduism, traditional African religions and “other” religions, such as Buddhism. The scope of this research will only focus on Christianity, Hinduism, Islam, Judaism and Buddhism. This comparative research was conducted through book reviews, and the results obtained from these books were verified with each religious leader. Aim of the study The study aims to determine which homoeopathic remedies or medications could potentially have religious restrictions. The study also intends to investigate the reasons behind these limitations. Methodology This research was conducted in the form of a book review with a qualitative aspect. The book review will show the subtle and implicit religious restrictions and how these restrictions can impede practitioners’ prescriptions. In some instances, these constraints may be lifted, which is also part of what this research aims to investigate. It was important to determine the extent of these restrictions, whether they were self-imposed, enforced by the religion, or imposed by someone else, and what practitioners should be aware of. The researcher identified and approached two religious leaders from each religious group (ten participants in total) in the eThekwini region. Each religious leader was asked about which parts of religious scripture contained the specific restrictions relating to homoeopathic prescription; these limitations were then verified through the texts mentioned. The researcher also confirmed the limitations regarding food, medicine (including CAM and energy healing) and alcohol with each religious leader.Item An exploration of patient perception of the aesthetic presentation and physical characteristics of homeopathic medicine(2022-05-13) Nengovhela, Muphulusi; Alwar, Vanishree; Maharaj, MadhueshwareeBackground The British Homeopathic Association (2020) claims that homeopathy is a natural form of medicine used by over 200 million people across the globe to treat both acute and chronic conditions. It is based on a principle known as like cures like, which simply means that a substance that can produce symptoms of disease when administered in a healthy individual, can be given in a minimal dose to treat the same symptoms in the diseased individual (Burns and Burns 2002). Homeopathy was discovered in the 1800s by the German physician Dr. Samuel Hahnemann. Hahnemann homeopathically prepared remedies in different physical forms (liquid, solid, and semi-solid form) and dispensed and stored them in a neutral brown glass bottle (Kayne 2006). In the present day, various forms of homeopathic medicines are dispensed to patients in different types of aesthetic presentations and in different colours. However, there is a lack of studies aimed to explore patients' perception of the aesthetic presentation and physical characteristics of homeopathic medicine. Aim of the study This study aimed to explore the patient perception of the aesthetic presentation and physical characteristics of homeopathic medicine. Methodology A qualitative, explorative, and descriptive design was employed. A convenience sampling method was used. Twelve semi-structured interviews were conducted at the DUT main homeopathic community health centre (HCHC) and one selected homeopathic private practice. Data collection took place until a point of saturation was reached, but three additional participants were recruited after this point to confirm data saturation.Data were analysed using thematic analysis guided by Tesch’s eight steps of data analysis (Tesch 1990 cited in Creswell 2009). Results Patients' perceptions regarding the aesthetic presentation and the physical characteristics of homeopathic medicine were grouped into four major themes and several subthemes. The four major themes were: package appearance, package preference, physical characteristics and medium type preference. These themes emerged from homeopathic patients' responses. Participants discussed the appearance of the packages and expressed perception with regard to the sizes, shapes, colours and the lids of the packages. Dissatisfaction regarding the paper packages, the breakability of glass packages and the impact of plastic packages on land pollution were discussed by the majority of the participants. Amber bottles and glass vials were the most preferred packaging for medication by participants. Regarding the physical characteristics of the homeopathic medicine, participants outlined the challenges they encounter while swallowing pills. Homeopathic medications were perceived as tasting sweet, too sweet and bitter. Participants were unhappy with the powder medications as it was perceived by them that powder forms do not exert any therapeutic effect and it was also expressed that they were unfamiliar with granule forms of medications. Conclusion This study explores patients' perception of the aesthetic presentation and the physical characteristics of homeopathic medicine. Feedback regarding the types of medicine and packaging was discussed. Dissatisfaction with some of the packaging and physical characteristics of homeopathic medicines was expressed by the participants, but participants also provided constructive feedback on the areas needing improvement. The main recommendation is that the paper packages used for packaging powders should be replaced with plastic packaging.Item A survey of patient satisfaction of the DUT Homoeopathic Community Health Centre (DUT HCHC)(2022-05-13) Adandé, Adhiéman Sihle; Couchman, Ingrid; Brijnath, ShraddhaBackground Patient satisfaction is a vital area of research concerning the quality of healthcare. Satisfied patients are more likely to benefit from their healthcare, keep their appointments and comply with medical regimes such as proper medication upon given instructions from their healthcare practitioner (Hills and Kitchen, 2007: 243). Herr (2008) conducted a similar study on patient satisfaction at the Homoeopathic Community Health Centre (HCHC) at Durban University of Technology (DUT). Although there has been renovation at the community health since then, more than five years have passed without any evaluation. Patient satisfaction is a patient-focused indicator of healthcare services. Therefore, evaluating patient satisfaction is a good criterion for analysing the quality and relationship between patients and healthcare practitioners. Therefore, patient dissatisfaction is a significant factor for changing healthcare services or complaints against a healthcare practitioner (Miri, Nejad and Soltani, 2016: 89). Thus, continuous improvement in healthcare quality is a daily goal for all healthcare services, such as clinics and professionals who work in healthcare. To thrive in a competitive marketplace, it is essential for healthcare organisations and their practitioners to recognise that viewing patients as customers and improving customer satisfaction has direct implications on healthcare quality (Harding and Taylor 2010: 928; Stavins 2006:29). This study evaluated patient’s feedback to create a patient satisfaction survey for use at the HCHC at DUT continually. Aim The aim of this study was to conduct a patient’s satisfaction of the service provided at the DUT HCHC, with the purpose to identify shortfalls/gaps such as to improve every aspect of patient satisfaction, which positively contributes to the overall treatment and service being provided at the DUT HCHC. Methodology The sample group of the first 70 patients that consulted at the DUT HCHC between July 2020 and March 2021, that voluntarily participated in this study were included in the study by means of convenience sampling. The use of a self-administered questionnaire to establish patient satisfaction was applied. No names were required and all data has been kept strictly confidential. This information will subsequently be used to improve the quality of the service provided at this facility and increase the degree of patient satisfaction experienced. Results In this study there was generally a high degree of satisfaction with the healthcare and services provided. Areas of particularly high satisfaction were, Patient’s arrival at the community health centre where they were both promptly and politely greeted, as well as the overall interaction between the student Homoeopath, Administrative staff as well as the Clinician on duty and the patient. Areas that demonstrated lower degree of satisfaction were advertising by media and signage, signage, toilet accessibility for disabled patients and parking. Conclusion The feedback from the patient satisfaction survey will subsequently serve to improve the quality of the service provided at the DUT HCHC and increase the degree of patient satisfaction experience.