The General Osteopathic Council (GOsC) regulates osteopathy in the UK. All osteopaths must be registered with the GOsC in order to practise in the UK. The GOsC:
- keep the Register of all those permitted to practise osteopathy in the UK, which is available online or by contacting the GOsC at info@osteopathy.org.uk
- work with the public and osteopathic profession to promote patient safety by registering qualified professionals
- set, maintain and develop standards of osteopathic practice and conduct.
- help patients with any concerns or complaints
- remove from the Register any osteopaths who are unfit to practise.
- assure the quality of osteopathic education and ensure that osteopaths undertake continuing professional development (CPD)
Maintaining standards
The GOsC’s Standard of Proficiency sets out the standards that practising osteopaths must meet. These include knowledge of the safe and competent practice of osteopathy, professional ethics and after-care evaluation. Part of the Fitness to Practice guidance is a strict Code of Practice, which is updated regularly to reflect changes in healthcare standards and regulation.
Registration
All Osteopaths must meet certain requirements in order to be registered with the GOsC and are required to renew their licence to practise every year. As part of this process the GOsC checks that they have current professional indemnity insurance, remain in good health and of good character, and have met the mandatory requirements of continuing professional development.
Assuring the quality of education
Osteopathy courses must be accredited as Recognised Qualification courses by the GOsC, and are validated by UK universities. The Osteopathy Benchmark Statement outlines the exacting standards required for osteopathic training.
Supporting patients
If a patient is concerned about the competence or the professional conduct of an osteopath, and has been unable to resolve the issue satisfactorily with the osteopath, we will advise on the next steps to take under a formal complaints procedure.
Download the GOsC leaflet outlining standards of osteopathic care
Please visit the GOsC website to find out more