New Patients

If visiting an osteopath is a new experience for you, this information aims to answer the questions which patients most frequently ask. There is additional information in 'the waiting room in the form of our practice leaflet as well as general pamphlets on Osteopathy. Practice update sheets are pinned on the waiting room notice board and in each consulting room. If these sources of information do not answer your queries please ask any member of staff

Where do I park? There is a car park at the front of the practice and one-hour free parking in Fonnereau Road just outside.

What should I wear? After your Osteopath has taken a full case history of your problem it is necessary for you to be examined. Most often it is necessary to ask you to undress to your underwear.

Can I have an urgent appointment? If we know you are in urgent need we will do our utmost to see you as soon as we can. Phone and tell the reception staff your situation.

What are the Osteopath's qualifications? All Osteopaths have either a diploma or degree in osteopathy and are members of The General Osteopathic Council and Register of Osteopaths. As a practice we review each other's work and are committed to continuing our professional education. This practice has met the International Quality Standard ISO 9002 and is the first Osteopathic practice to have achieved this. We are externally inspected at six monthly intervals.

How long is an appointment? There is no fixed amount for an appointment although they are generally in the region of 20 minutes. Conditions vary considerably in the amount of time they require and we are committed to achieving the best for every patient. Please remember that what is achieved inside the consulting room is only a proportion of the Osteopath's work. It is necessary for us to keep relevant notes, communicate with GPs, review hospital X-rays and Scans, write reports, liaise with our staff and upgrade our skills.

How long will it take me to get better? Your rate of recovery will depend on several factors including your age, general health, sensitivity to treatment, activities in your life, as well as the type of problem you have. We will explain the situation in your particular case at tbe time of your first consultation.

Can I phone between treatments? If you have new problems or concerns between treatments we would rather you phone us than be anxious or in pain in silence. If your osteopath is busy your call will be returned as soon as possible.

Will my Insurance Company Pay? We enjoy specialist status with BUPA and PPP. Most insurance companies now refund all or part of patients fees, some have special referral conditions or require that you tell them at the onset. We recommend that you check tbe details with your insurer sooner rather than later. We ask you settle your fees with us and reclaim from your insurer. It is helpful if you tell us that you are intending to claim on your insurance at the outset of your treatment.

What are the Fees? A current fee list for all services is posted on the reception desk as well as in all the consulting rooms. Fees are payable at the time of your visit by cash, cheque or credit card. Please note that we do not run an accounting service.

How do I reclaim fees from my Insurer? Our specialist status with insurance companies dictates that we charge patients a fee, which they then recover, from the insurer. We will facilitate this by helping you complete necessary forms and by issuing receipts. Insurers are generally prompt in settling claims on a 'treatment by treatment' or 'batch basis'. Using our credit card facility can help you avoid "cash flow' difficulties.

Is it necessary to see the GP first? Many patients are referred by their doctor, but it is not necessary to visit him/her first. If there is any reason for us to contact your doctor we will ask you first.

Can I comment on tbe Quality of service? We welcome your comments about your best and worst experiences here. Whenever possible we try and act on your feedback.

Comments leaflets are available in the waiting room and all consulting rooms and a box for them is provided in the entrance hall. Please post your completed form in the Comments Box on your way out. Any member of staff will welcome your feedback.

If you wish, you may speak to one of the partners about any ‘burning’ issues. Do not hesitate to contact us by your preferred means