Frequently asked questions ...
Q. Do you treat people under private health schemes?
Yes, I do. I am recognised by most private health care insurers including: BUPA, AXA/PPP, HSA, Hospital Saturday Funds, Norwich Union, and many more.
If you are in a private health insurance scheme, contact them first to see if osteopathic treatment is covered - not all of them cover it, but most of them do. Official St Nicolas Park Osteopath Practice receipts are given for all monies received.
Some employers pay for their employees to have osteopathic treatment so it may be worth checking this out with your current employer.
Q. Do I have to be referred to you by my GP?
No. Although many doctors do see the benefits of osteopathy you don't need a referral from them before you can see me - you can self-refer.
Q. Is osteopathy safe?
Osteopaths have to follow a minimum of four years, full-time degree, training. A great emphasis of that training is on the safety of the patient, so yes, it is considered to be a 'safe' form of treatment.
Q. Is osteopathy regulated?
Yes. Osteopathy was one of the first complementary therapies to be governed by statutory regulation by parliament. Osteopaths have similar status to doctors, nurses and dentists.
The General Osteopathic Council is similar to the General Medical Council for doctors. It regulates training for osteopaths and maintains a register of qualified osteopaths. It is responsible for the conduct and professionalism of trained osteopaths. One of its main roles is to protect the public.
I am a registered member of both the General Osteopathic Council and the Nursing and Midwifery Council.
Q. How much does it cost?
An initial consultation / treatment costs £55.00 and subsequent treatments cost £45.00.
Q. I work all day, do you do evening or weekends?
I work 8.00am to 6.00pm, Monday to Friday and 8.00am until 1.00pm on a Saturday. Later evening appointments and Sunday appointments can sometimes be made by prior arrangement - please contact me if you need an appointment outside of normal practice hours.
