The “ideal” regional group … some thoughts from Northern Cumbria Osteopaths

Northern Cumbria Osteopaths: how we operate Infrastructure: Group is run by a ‘one man band’ Membership: No official membership. About 80% of local osteopaths have attended at some point. Contacting osteopaths when they are new to the area Activities: Osteopath-led workshops: role plays, technique sessions, questionnaire-based discussions. Courses: Orthotics, Dry Needling. Socialising: drinking & eating curry! Leads onto to shadowing, treating each other, computer support, etc. Meeting frequency: Meeting for whole afternoon ev. 2-3 months Financing: No annual membership fees. Share costs when organise a course or paid speaker Communications: s & phone conversations

Northern Cumbria Osteopaths: how we could operate Infrastructure: What would be most effective … a committee? Membership: Significantly bigger. Formal membership. Open to students and other healthcare professionals Activities: Agreed schedule of events/activities across the year. Business initiatives & identification of members’ strengths: marketing advice, research collaboration, NHS commissioning. Referral of patients among membership, provide cover for colleagues on leave/ill. Peer networks for sharing and seeking advice on clinical problems/issues. Meeting frequency: More often? Virtual meetings? Financing: Charge an annual fee and create a fund to finance other activities Communications: set up website, online forums. Networking with other groups & professions