Can I see an osteopath on the NHS?

Osteopathy is a type of complementary therapy. Like all complementary therapies, osteopathy is not available on the NHS in all parts of the country. Even in places where osteopathy is available, there may be limited availability.

It will be up to your local clinical commissioning group (CCG) to decide whether to allocate NHS funding for osteopathic treatment. You can speak to your GP or CCG to find out whether osteopathy is available in your area.

Find your local CCG.

Currently, most people pay to receive osteopathic treatment on a private basis. Fees can range from £35-50 for a 30-minute session. Your first session may cost more, as you will need to be assessed. If you contact a clinic or therapist for private treatment, make sure they are fully qualified and registered with the General Osteopathic Council (GOsC). It is a legal requirement for osteopaths to register with the GOsC.

If osteopathy is available on the NHS in your area, your GP may be able to refer you to an osteopath at a local osteopathic clinic if they feel that the treatment will benefit you. Sometimes, an osteopath may also provide treatment at your local hospital or GP surgery. Because of the limited availability of osteopathy on the NHS, there is likely to be a long waiting list for treatment.

You can search the GOsC register to find an osteopath in your local area. The GOsC website also has a list of training schools where students train in clinics supervised by qualified osteopaths. If you can't see an osteopath on the NHS, you may be able to get treatment at these clinics at reduced rates.

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