- Holistic approaches to medicine were developed in the early 1890s by a U.S. medical doctor, Andrew Taylor. His philosophy at the time was that 19th century medicines were not doing patients any good, but rather causing more harm. Because of the incompetence that he saw in medical practitioners during the Civil War, Taylor began to explore the ability of the body to heal itself and focused on preventive medicine. In his studies, he identified the interrelation of the muscles, bones, organs and nerves. Taylor also established the American School of Osteopathy in Missouri.
- The Osteopaths Act was formulated in 1993 to regulate osteopaths in the United Kingdom. Only practitioners who met required standards were allowed to practice osteopathy. Parliament enacted the law that created the body that is known as the General Osteopathic Council.
- The act detailed specific processes such as the registration of osteopaths. It also specifies that the osteopath should pay a specific fee, which was ratified by the General Osteopathic Council. The practitioner should be of good moral character, in good health--both physically and mentally--and have a recognized qualification, meaning that the individual should be educated and has studied for the profession.
- The education committee and council are united for accountability purposes and also to ensure that the standards set for this practice are properly met. Since the committee is in charge of promoting the education and training of aspiring and existing osteopaths, the council consults the committee regarding education, training and examinations to measure competence.
- In order to assist patients and promote safety, the act allows patients to talk with the General Osteopathic Council regarding concerns and complaints about certain osteopath practitioners. The council recommends that patients first consult with their osteopaths regarding concerns and complaints before seeking the council to enforce immediate action.
