How do I find out if an osteopath is registered

How long does an osteopath have to train before qualifying?

‘ Practitioner Details ’ within the register itself. This will help you to gauge the clinical experience of the osteopath – post qualification.

How long does an osteopath have to train before qualifying?



To become an osteopath, most undergraduate students complete a five-year course which involves both academic and clinical work. The resulting qualification is usually a bachelor ’ s degree in osteopathy such as a BSc (Hons), Bost or BostMed. Some students complete a masters ’ degree in osteopathy.

The General Osteopathic Council developed and set the rules regarding the professional development and training of osteopaths. All osteopaths must update their knowledge and training during the course of their careers, including at least 30 hours ’ of Continuing Professional Development every year.

Many osteopaths go far beyond this and equip themselves with a broad range of specialist training to enhance the services they offer.

The standards required of an osteopath practising in the UK are detailed in the General Osteopathic Council ’ s Osteopathic Practice Standards.

These principles have been developed in conjunction with a wide range agencies and organisations including patient representative groups, osteopathic educational bodies, students, individual patients and the British Osteopathic Association.

Revalidation

Revalidation is a new system which has been introduced by the General Osteopathic Council which requires qualified osteopaths to demonstrate, at regular intervals, that they remain up-to-date and fit to practice. All healthcare regulators are required by the Government to introduce improved professional monitoring processes.



Currently, an osteopath is required to renew their registration every year to meet ongoing professional development requirements. The new system will increase confidence among patients and provide reassurance that the registered osteopath they are using meets the standards of their profession.