Research reports on the types of concerns raised about osteopaths

The latest research report published by the National Council of Osteopathic Research (NCOR) offers an independent annual review of concerns reported about osteopaths and osteopathic services, collating data from patients, insurers, and regulatory bodies such as the General Osteopathic Council (GOsC).

Covering the period from January to December 2023, this report underscores the ongoing commitment of the osteopathic community to monitor and enhance both clinical practices and professional standards.

In 2023, a total of 121 concerns were raised, marking the second-lowest annual figure since data collection began in 2013, and showing a slight reduction from the previous year’s total of 126 concerns. This decrease in reported issues is significant, as it reflects improvements in practice following the introduction of updated continuing professional development (CPD) initiatives and stricter adherence to established clinical protocols.

The report categorizes the concerns into three distinct areas: clinical issues, management challenges, and relational concerns, each shedding light on different facets of osteopathic practice that warrant attention.

Within the clinical domain, the data indicates an above-average number of complaints related to the lack or inadequacy of treatment plans, heightened reports of new or increased pain, and concerns over the use of forceful treatment techniques.

These findings suggest that while clinical outcomes generally remain positive, there is room for improvement in ensuring that treatment plans are comprehensive and that therapies are delivered with caution and precision to avoid adverse effects. 

In terms of management, there were slightly above-average concerns regarding the control of communicable diseases, value for money, and compliance with health and safety regulations.

Such concerns prompt a review of existing administrative procedures and reinforce the need for updated guidelines, as evidenced by the recent revision of infection control protocols provided by GOsC.

The relational aspect of the report reveals fewer concerns overall; however, the number of cases involving sexual impropriety is noteworthy, with 15 incidents recorded in 2023. Although this figure is slightly lower than the nine-year average, it remains an area of serious concern since it represents a breach of trust between patients and healthcare professionals.

In response, GOsC is proposing mandatory CPD focused on establishing and maintaining professional boundaries, thereby integrating enhanced communication and consent practices into ongoing professional development requirements.

Additionally, the report highlights a trend whereby osteopaths with more than ten years in practice are disproportionately represented among those with concerns raised against them, mirroring trends in other healthcare sectors and emphasizing that experience does not exempt practitioners from continuous improvement.

GOsC Chief Executive and Registrar, Matthew Redford, said:

‘We welcome this latest annual NCOR concerns and complaints report. We continue to find it highly valuable in helping us to ensure we are focusing on supporting osteopaths to practise in accordance with the Osteopathic Practice Standards and that we are providing the right communications and resources to cover the areas of concern outlined in the report.

We know that since the introduction of our new CPD scheme in 2018, concerns have reduced significantly and we hope that a continued focus on key concerns will help osteopaths to continue to provide high quality care for patients.

We encourage osteopaths to read this report and take a look at the resources we provide to support osteopaths in the key areas highlighted.’

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