Continuing Professional Development
The Osteopaths Guide believes it important to inform the public arena of the reason why an osteopath undertakes Continuing Professional Development (CPD). One definition is, “the systematic updating and enhancement of skills, knowledge and competence which takes place throughout working life. Put simply, a life-long learning approach to planning, managing and getting the most from your own development.” (CPD foundation)
CPD is Continuing because learning never ceases, regardless of age or seniority; It is Professional because it is focused on personal competence in a professional role; It is concerned with Development because its goal is to improve personal performance and enhance career progression and is much wider than just formal training courses.
CPD can involve learning through lectures, seminars, courses, practical sessions, individual study or other activities undertaken by an osteopath, that could reasonably be expected to advance his/her professional development and/or contribute to the development of osteopathy. The development should be owned and managed by the individual learner and should be continuous in the sense that professionals should always be actively seeking improved performance. CPD is a personal matter and the learner knows best what he/she needs to learn. Learning objectives should be clear and wherever possible be organised around the patients' needs as well as individuals’ goals. Regular investment of time in learning should be seen as an essential part of professional life, not an optional extra.
Patient Benefits
Continuing Professional Development is important for the patient as it improves the quality of the osteopathic care provided, arising from the development of the practitioner’s knowledge and skills. It also increases confidence in the professional abilities of the osteopath, leading to improved patient/practitioner relationships. More information can be sourced from the General Osteopathic Council, which also monitor the amount and quality of CPD an osteopath undertakes.
To find an osteopath, follow the link below:
Continuing Professional Development
CPD is Continuing because learning never ceases, regardless of age or seniority; It is Professional because it is focused on personal competence in a professional role; It is concerned with Development because its goal is to improve personal performance and enhance career progression and is much wider than just formal training courses.
CPD can involve learning through lectures, seminars, courses, practical sessions, individual study or other activities undertaken by an osteopath, that could reasonably be expected to advance his/her professional development and/or contribute to the development of osteopathy. The development should be owned and managed by the individual learner and should be continuous in the sense that professionals should always be actively seeking improved performance. CPD is a personal matter and the learner knows best what he/she needs to learn. Learning objectives should be clear and wherever possible be organised around the patients' needs as well as individuals’ goals. Regular investment of time in learning should be seen as an essential part of professional life, not an optional extra.
Patient Benefits
Continuing Professional Development is important for the patient as it improves the quality of the osteopathic care provided, arising from the development of the practitioner’s knowledge and skills. It also increases confidence in the professional abilities of the osteopath, leading to improved patient/practitioner relationships. More information can be sourced from the General Osteopathic Council, which also monitor the amount and quality of CPD an osteopath undertakes.
To find an osteopath, follow the link below:
Continuing Professional Development
