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Homeopathy can be practiced either by medical doctors or by licensed non-medical practitioners (Heilpraktiker - HP). An HP can practice homeopathy or, for that matter, acupuncture or any of a wide range of therapies as long as these do not involve use of prescription drugs. To obtain the HP license, one has to pass a state exam proving that one has enough medical knowledge so as not to endanger the general public - which includes knowing what one's limitations are. For example, an HP is not allowed to treat a variety of infectious diseases such as venereal diseases, malaria, even chicken pox. An HP may not officially call themselves a homeopath, although they may indicate on their practice sign or calling cards that they practice homeopathy. There is no standard training program in classical homeopathy for HP's, but there are a number of excellent schools/training programs which one can visit.
Doctors in Germany, similar to Austria, can call themselves homeopaths if they have gone through a three-year training program in classical homeopathy.
Whether MD or HP, the patients have to either pay privately or have private insurance, as most standard insurance companies do not cover "alternative" therapies. Acceptance is gaining ground concerning homeopathy. Polypharmacy is also accepted and practiced.
