Training & Regulation

Osteopaths have a thorough training in anatomy, patho-physiology, biomechanics, interpretation of clinical tests and imaging, and relevant areas of psychology and sociology. Qualified osteopaths will have an academic qualification indicated by DO, BSc or MLCOM.

Current osteopathic training comprises a 4 to 5 year BSc Honours degree programme in the UK, with extensive clinical training from the outset.

Osteopathy is an established system of diagnosis and manual treatment, which is recognised by the British Medical Association as a discrete clinical discipline in its’ own right.

In 1993 the profession was given statutory recognition by Act of Parliament and as a result the voluntary register (MRO’s) of 60 years has been disbanded. This set a precedent in being the first complementary health discipline to achieve this. The  statutory register and governing body for osteopaths is The General Osteopathic Council (GOsC) and membership is mandatory to use the title ‘osteopath’ (since the 7th May 2000).

It is a criminal offence in the UK, liable for prosecution, to describe oneself as an osteopath unless registered with the The General Osteopathic Council.

Only practitioners meeting the highest standards of safety and competence are eligible for registration. Proof of good health, good character and professional indemnity insurance cover is also a requirement.

Osteopaths are also committed to life long learning through a system of mandatory Continuing Professional Development.

It is advisable, therefore to ensure that the osteopath is registered, before consulting. This is also essential if claiming health insurance, but check the small print to see if you are covered for osteopathic treatment. Some insurance companies require referral from a GP.

Local Wirral Health Services page (incl. GP's) on Holistic-Centre.org's website