Wouldn't such a move require informing the parent? Besides, the article describes how the doctor went out of their way to praise the virtues of the medicine provided. If helping with a condition has the side-effect of spreading dangerous memes (yes, homeopathy can be dangerous if appropriate treatment is foregone in its favour) from the mouth of a respected expert, then that is one hell of a side-effect that the parent should be at least made aware of.
True, but the confidence of the patient is instrumental in placebo effectiveness. If the doctor has a long-term relationship with the patient, then they can have it both ways. They can play up the efficacy of the "medicine" then educate the patient on subsequent visits.
