Homeopathy the most widely used complementary medicine in Austria

A new market study confirms that more than half of Austrians have experience of complementary and alternative medicine treatments and that this number has increased over the past 12 months.

72% of Austrians definitely or mostly see complementary and alternative medicine (CAM) as part of healthcare provision, up from 69% in 2022. 55% have already had experience with these treatments, and 18% once or more in the past 12 months. Women (60%) are more likely than men (50%) to have used these treatments. 43% of parents have their children treated with complementary medicine. About one third say their interest in these treatments has increased over the past twelve months.

The most established and frequently used alternative medical treatment is homeopathy (57% of CAM users), followed by acupuncture, Bach flower remedies and osteopathy. Complementary medicine is used for both physical and mental complaints, with the highest use being for neck or back pain and stress. The main conditions that parents seek to treat in their children are allergies and stress.

70% of those who use CAM report a high or good outcome.

68% of users of complementary medicine treatments see them as a complement to conventional medicine. The majority (58%) received recommendations from friends or family, although nearly half (47%) were recommended the treatments by their doctor or healthcare professional.

Insurers are aware that complementary and alternative medicine is playing an increasingly important role in the choice of private medical insurance.

This increased interest reflects a positive trend in terms of health awareness in Austria, and one that is found across Europe: 40% of Austrians now pay more attention to their health than 12 months ago. This is particularly true of men, 42% of whom report increased health awareness, compared to 37% of women. In addition, one in three have optimised their dietary behaviour and one sixth now do more sport than a year ago.

The study shows the results of a representative online survey of 1,000 people in Austria between the ages of 16 and 70,  by the Gallup Institute on behalf of Wiener Städtische Versicherung insurance company.