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Oakway. Keepers Lane. Hyde Heath. Amersham. Buckinghamshire. HP6 5RJ Telephone: 01494 783962  Email form Map
Chiltern Osteopathic Practice : Frequently asked questions
On this page we aim to provide answers or pinpoint you to parts of the website where frequently asked questions on osteopathy are addressed.
 What is the difference between an osteopath and a chiropractor ?
 What can I expect on my first visit to an osteopath ?
How much does treatment cost at The Chiltern Osteopathic Practice ?
 Can my GP refer me to an osteopath ?
Do I need a GP referral to see an osteopath ?
 Is osteopathy available on the NHS ?
What training and qualifications do osteopaths have ?
What should I do if I have concerns about an osteopath and/or the treatment I have received ?
What is the difference between an osteopath and a chiropractor ?
Chiropractic treatment is based primarily on manipulation of the spine whereas osteopathic treatment employs a wider range of techniques overall such as stretching, massage, pressure and mobilisation. Furthermore, osteopaths take an holistic approach to their patients and treat the underlying cause, not just the symptoms. Since the cause, and not just the symptoms are being treated, fewer visits to an osteopath are generally needed.
Can my GP refer me to an osteopath?
In accordance with guidance from the General Medical Council, GP’s are permitted to refer patients to osteopaths as statutory regulated professionals. The British Medical Association also provides guidance to GP’s on referral.
Do I need a GP referral to see an osteopath ?
Most osteopathic practice patients tend to ‘self refer’ for treatment. Although referral by a GP is not necessary, patients are encouraged to keep both their GP and osteopath fully informed, so that medical records are kept up to date and complete. Importantly also the patient will receive the best possible care from both healthcare practitioners.
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Is osteopathy available on the NHS ?
Currently access to osteopathy on the NHS is limited, but support continues to grow as commissioning authorities recognise the benefits of providing osteopathy to patients.
What training and qualifications do osteopaths have ?
Undergraduate students follow a four of 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).
 To practise all osteopaths need to have been registered with, and are regulated by the General Osteopathic Council. Under the terms of their registration they must also commit to undertaking continuing professional development and training throughout their working lives. It is mandatory for a practitioner to complete at least 30 hours of continuing professional development per year. For further details see the following link:
 Osteopathy - standards of training and practice
What should I do if I have concerns about an osteopath or treatment I have received ?
All osteopaths have malpractice insurance and statutory regulation ensures that patients have the same safeguards as when they consult a doctor or dentist.
The Chiltern Osteopathic Practice are committed to their ethos in providing excellence in osteopathic care for each patient. Should you have any concerns about the competence of any osteopath at Chiltern Osteopathic Practice - do discuss it directly with the osteopath or advise reception straight away. Should you feel that you are unable to resolve any issue by discussing this with us, the General Osteopathic Council will advise on next steps to take under a formal complaints procedure.
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