Title: A study to evaluate knowledge of what osteopathy is, the scope of what it can treat and the effect this has on referral rates amongst NHS consultants in rheumatology, neurology, orthopaedics, palliative care and general practitioners in England.

Louise Goodey                                                                                            Supervisor: Phyllis Woodfine 

Abstract:
PURPOSE: To evaluate knowledge of what osteopathy is, the scope of what it can treat, referral rates and factors affecting referral amongst NHS consultants in rheumatology, neurology, orthopaedics, palliative care and general practitioners in England.

METHODS: A cross sectional survey design was used. 400 self-reporting questionnaires were sent out, with an overall response rate of 17%. The study population comprised of 68 adults, 49 men and 19 women aged between 26 to 60+ years. Of these 14 were GP’s, 13 neurologists, 21 rheumatologists, 10 orthopaedics and 10 palliative care doctors. The data was analysed using Microsoft Excel and statistical analysis were carried out using Graphpad Instat.

RESULTS: Results showed that whilst there was some confusion between osteopathy and physiotherapy, the highest number of doctors 62% believed osteopathy to be a complementary therapy compared to the 44% who believed it to be alternative. The orthopaedic doctors demonstrated the highest level of understanding overall. 60% of doctors believed osteopathy could treat musculoskeletal disorders (MSD) with 36% referring to osteopathy. Of those doctors that had a higher level of understanding of osteopathy 75% believed MSD’s could be treated compared to 63% who had a lower understanding. Referral for MSD’s was 35% higher for the group with higher understanding.