How do I know if an osteopath is registered?

All osteopaths must be registered with the General Osteopathic Council. You can use their online Register to check if your health professional is currently registered.

 

Can anyone call themself an osteopath?

The title 'osteopath' is protected by law, and only those included on the UK Statutory Register are entitled to practise as osteopaths. Unregistered practice is a criminal offence in the UK.

 

Can I find out how long an osteopath has been practising?

The date an osteopath was first registered with the General Osteopathic Council can be seen in the 'Practitioner Details' on their Register.

 

What training do osteopaths have?

Undergraduate students follow a four or five-year degree course combining academic and clinical work. Qualification generally takes the form of a bachelor’s degree in osteopathy – a BSc(Hons), BOst or BOstMed – or a masters degree in osteopathy (MOst). Many osteopaths continue their studies after graduating.  

Osteopaths are required to update their training throughout their working lives. They must complete at least 30 hours of Continuing Professional Development per year

 

Who sets the standards of training and practice for osteopaths?

The standards of osteopathic training and practice are maintained and developed by the General Osteopathic Council, the profession’s statutory regulator established under the Osteopaths Act 1993.

 

What should I do if I have concerns about the osteopath or the treatment I have received?

All osteopaths are expected to have a complaints procedure in place in their practice to address patient concerns.

 

If you have concerns about the competence or the professional conduct of your osteopath, and you have been unable to resolve the issue satisfactorily with the osteopath, or their employer, the General Osteopathic Council will advise on the next steps to take under a formal complaints procedure.