GP Referral to an Osteopath
Osteopaths work closely with GP’s and you can either see the osteopath first, and then if necessary visit your doctor; or your GP may choose to refer you to an osteopath.
Do GP’s and Doctors Really Refer to Osteopaths?
They sure do! Here in Croydon much of our business is from referring GPs who send us clients. Doctors really are falling in love with osteopathy because it is such an effective treatment for many muscular and bony conditions. Osteopaths are trained to a very high standard, and are really getting a great deal of credibility in the UK.
Do Consultants Refer to Osteopaths?
Here at Croydon Physiotherapy and Osteopathy Clinic, we receive referrals from all of Croydon’s top specialists and consultants. They often send us the really complex surgical repairs as well, because they know the rehabilitation may require a certain niche repair protocol.
Visiting an Osteopath Does Not Require a GP Referral
Although GP’s may refer you to an osteopath, this is not necessary if you want to go and see one. If you feel that you have a problem that osteopathy may be able to help you with – in particular, problems related to your musculoskeletal system, you are welcome to contact your osteopath directly.
Communication between GP’s and Osteopaths
There is also good communication between GP’s and osteopaths and should you require that we write a letter to your GP then we will willingly do so. Your GP may also write a letter to or communicate with your osteopath if they refer you or if you mention that you are going to see an osteopath and request it. If you request a referral through your private medical insurance, they will often request the GP write a referral letter (although we are happy with a short note).
The Advantages of Seeing an Osteopath First
Seeing your osteopath does not require a referral from a GP and, in fact, it is often better to see your osteopath first and then, if necessary, be referred to a GP. Osteopaths are classified in the UK as “Primary Care Practitioners” meaning that you can see your osteopath before seeing your GP, and they will have the expertise to advise you on pathologies ranging from colds, to infections, to muscular pain. Most people chose to see an osteopath because they want a natural alternative to pain, and seeing a GP is usually just a means of being prescribed medication. Although these may be beneficial in many cases, they also have side effects that may be avoided using more natural alternatives.
Osteopaths are qualified to both diagnose and treat many disorders and so we will be able to determine what your actual problem is and whether we can treat it ourselves but we also acknowledge the strengths of the other medical professions and if necessary will willingly refer you to the correct person to see for your particular disorder.
Osteopaths and GP’s have good relations and understand the specific strengths and weaknesses of one another’s professions and will willingly refer both ways should this be necessary.
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