Osteopathy Awareness Week: May 3-9, 2009
The Australian Osteopathic Association (AOA) will hold its annual Osteopathy Awareness Week during 3-9 May, 2009. This year’s theme focuses on raising awareness of osteopathy (ABS reported as the fasted health profession in Australia) and the services osteopaths offer.
This year’s campaign will be covered over 23 radio stations nationally, magazine advertorial and events planned by osteopaths in their local areas across Australia.
Most people, regardless of age or gender, will suffer from back or neck pain, headaches, sport injuries, stiffness or pain at some time. Osteopaths can help to identify the cause of the pain or injury and develop a safe and effective course of action to manage pain – so people can make the most of their active lives.
“As allied health care professionals, osteopaths are well placed to treat people in the community; reduce burdens on waiting times to access public health and most importantly help people to stay active or reduce pain that is affecting their quality of life” explained Antony Nicholas, AOA Executive Director
Osteopathy is not an alternative health option – osteopaths are university trained, government registered, allied health professionals.
Osteopaths collectively treat over 30 000 people a week, generate over $200 million in the economy, plus osteopathy has been practiced for over 100 years in Australia.
Nicholas further explained “Health care choices are important, so checking that practitioners are registered is vital; AOA member osteopaths are committed to ongoing professional development and education to stay up-to-date”.
Osteopathy can be utilised as a primary form of health care, in addition to the care provided by a General Practitioner and other health professionals. People do not require a referral.
Osteopathy is acknowledged by health funds, Department of Veterans Affairs, Workcover schemes and Medicare Plus which attracts a rebate with a GP referral for chronic pain.
There are over 1400 Osteopaths practicing in Australia. You can find the one nearest to you by visiting http://www.osteopathic.com.au or calling the AOA on 1800 467 836.
