Introducing the new Osteopathic Practice Standards Velia Soames, Head of Regulation

Osteopathic Practice Standards Published in July 2011 Comprises both: Standard of Proficiency Code of Practice for osteopaths Existing documents in force until 31 August 2012

Osteopathic Practice Standards What’s new? Code and Standards brought together Arranged into four key themes Separation of standards and guidance Specific changes to Standard of Proficiency set out at page 28 of OPS

Osteopathic Practice Standards Four key themes Communication and patient partnership Knowledge, skills and performance Safety and quality in practice Professionalism

Standards and guidance Requirements Provides the framework within which you should operate Guidance How you can meet the standards Provides a flexible and individual approach

Standards and guidance This ... From the current Code of Practice COMMUNICATING WITH PATIENTS 21. You should use your professional judgement to assess what information will most help your patients understand their condition and the treatment options available. The use of non-technical language, diagrams and models will assist. 22. You should encourage your patients to ask questions if anything is not clear to them or if they require further information. You should encourage patients to take an active part in any decisions that need to be made. RELATIONSHIPS WITH COLLEAGUES 73. In modern healthcare, professionals often practise in association with others. Patients rightly expect to receive advice or treatment from the practitioner most suited to their needs. You should work in co-operation with other osteopaths and healthcare professionals to secure the best care for each individual patient.

Standards and guidance Becomes this ... CODE OF PRACTICE STANDARDS GUIDANCE A5 Work in partnership with patients to find the best treatment for them. You should encourage patients to ask questions about their treatment and to take an active part in the treatment plan and any decisions that need to be made. The most appropriate treatment for patients will sometimes involve: 2.1. referring them to another osteopath or other healthcare professional. 2.2. providing advice on self-care. 2.3. Not treating them at all. Note also: A1, C1, C2, C5,D8

Standards and guidance Standards Guidance ‘Must’ ‘May’ Expected to comply Have a choice – use your professional discretion ‘Should’ Used to indicate how standard can be met, or where relevant duty won’t apply in all circumstances or situations

Support for osteopaths Articles: The Osteopath Fitness to Practise e-bulletin o zone website Interactive quiz

Support for osteopaths E-learning Supplementary guidance Regional conferences

Communicating risk Difficult area – highlighted by the Code of Practice 2005 Important for patients More information now available NCOR Adverse Events projects

Communicating benefits and risks Focus for today: Benefits and risks – what we now know from research Effective ways to communicate benefits and risks to your patients

1 September 2012 standards@osteopathy.org.uk