Question 1

Fees

Accepted Answer

New patient appointment 60mins (includes treatment)

With John £85 (£75 concession fee for students, the unemployed and retired)
With Gervais/Cerys £70 (£65 concession fee)
Follow-up appointments 40mins 

With John £70 (£60 concession fee)
With Gervais/Cerys £60 (£55 concession fee)

Question 2

Your consultation

Accepted Answer

The purpose of the consultation is to gather the information required to establish a working diagnosis. This is the first definition of the problem, and it allows the formulation of a plan for treatment and advice both in the short and long term.

This is also an opportunity to clarify that the patient is indeed suitable for osteopathic treatment by ruling out any medical cause for their condition. A comprehensive case history is taken that not only covers the presenting condition, but the previous medical history in some considerable detail.

A thorough physical examination is then conducted for which you may be asked to undress to your underwear to allow a clear view of your posture, to examine mobility, and conduct a range of tests, all of which help to clarify the condition and its underlying causes. You are never required to undress beyond the underwear, and you are asked to to make it clear if undressing makes you uncomfortable for any reason. Being able to view the area concerned does help greatly, but the wish is to never make you feel anxious in any way. You may feel more comfortable bringing shorts to wear during your visits.

Once a diagnosis is established then this is clearly explained, together with detail of the treatment plan, the techniques that may be employed, and an initial estimate of how many treatments may be required. You will receive treatment and advice during this visit with the aim of bringing you as much relief as possible.

Question 3

Your treatments

Accepted Answer

Following some questioning about the changes to your condition a brief re-examination is made. The allows the progression of treatment to be assessed objectively and ensures that it is adapted accordingly. During these visits both hands-on treatment is provided as well as advice regarding exercises or lifestyle modifications that will assist in your recovery. Any questions you may have can be addressed along the way.

Question 4

Treatment frequency

Accepted Answer

This depends on the problem and its severity. In some cases, particularly when the pain is acute, then it’s more effective to see the patient again within a few days. Generally treatments are spaced roughly one week apart, although as the condition begins to improve they may be spaced more widely. Some patients feel that they benefit from visits on a regular basis despite the absence of any pain. In such cases they may choose to attend every few weeks or months for a check-up, and can simply book themselves in.

Question 5

How should I dress for treatment?

Accepted Answer

In order to conduct a thorough examination and effective treatment it can be helpful to view the patient in their underwear and/or a pair of shorts or leggings. Loose trousers are available if you'd like them. Whilst laying down you will be covered with a towel or blanket so that you do not feel exposed. Please be assured that we will always endeavour to respect your modesty and adapt to your concerns and needs.

Question 6

Will treatment be uncomfortable?

Accepted Answer

Some of the techniques employed by osteopaths may occasionally provoke a mild discomfort during their application, but communication between the patient and osteopath means that this should never be to a degree that would be unpleasant. Occasionally after visits patients may experience a treatment reaction with a some exaggeration of their symptoms for a brief period, normally no longer than 24 hours. This is most often not the case. Patients are encouraged to contact their osteopath if this causes concern.

Question 7

Will my medical insurance cover the cost of treament?

Accepted Answer

John is recognised by BUPA (Ref 30023310), PRU & HSA (see note below regarding AXA/PPP & Aviva). If you seek treatment with John you will need to be provided with an authorisation code before receiving treatment. This option is not available through Cerys and Gervais.

As registered osteopaths we can provide you with a receipt if you self-pay that will be accepted by most insurers that cover osteopathy from a registered osteopath as part of your policy.

Please check with your insurer before booking to ensure that you will be covered, and whether you will be required to pay some of the cost yourself in the form of an excess payment.

Note Regarding AXA/PPP & Aviva: Unfortunately as both AXA/PPP & Aviva have imposed a cap of £35 on the amount they will pay for osteopathic visits, with no option for the patient to top-up the difference, we sadly had no option but to discontinue accepting patients wishing to claim through them.

Question 8

How do I pay?

Accepted Answer

Payment is made directly to your practitioner by card or cash at the end of each visit.

Question 9

Do I need to consult my GP before visiting an osteopath?

Accepted Answer

Generally not. Most patients self refer without first consulting their GP. If you have severe health problems and a complex medical history then you may wish to consult your GP to ensure that osteopathic treatment is appropriate.

Question 10

What happens if I cannot attend an appointment?

Accepted Answer

There is a policy that the full fee is charged if the patient fails to attend or give less than 24 hours notice of cancellation. When allocated time is wasted it prevents other patients from receiving attention, some of whom may be in considerable pain. Clearly there are some genuine reasons, beyond forgetfulness and poor timing, why attendance may not be possible, and we would ask that you please communicate this if it is the case. It is not our policy to request the fee under certain circumstances.

Fees / FAQ