The implications of the Osteopaths Act

Abstract: This paper considers the provisions of the Osteopaths Act, and the powers of the new General Osteopathic Council, in particular with regard to fitness to practice. The implications of the Act are assessed for patients, for other health care professions, and for osteopaths themselves. The Act will be particularly important in assuring patients of the probity of anyone practising under the title of osteopath, which will be effectively closed. The scope for osteopaths to work within the new purchaser/provider system is discussed. Finally the long-term effects are discussed on an 'alternative profession' of Legislation to bring it within the etablishment, and whether it thereby becomes orthodox.

Zurück | Weiter