FAQs

Patients

How to find a competent osteopath in my area?

In our osteopath search, enter your postal code, city, or name to find osteopaths in your area. You can also use our pediatric osteopath search.

Do all osteopaths treat childen?

Treating children is part of osteopathic training. However, there are certified pediatric osteopaths who have completed additional training specifically for this work. All osteopaths recognized by the OEGO as pediatric osteopaths have completed several years of qualified additional training. The OEGO explicitely recommends that all patients consult pediatric osteopaths for osteopathic treatment of a child.

What is the cost of an osteopathic treatment?

The price for a treatment varies depending on the type and duration of treatment. Ask for details with your chosen osteopath. A guideline is between €70 and €130.

How much do state insurance companies refund?

Statutory health insurance companies do not cover the costs of osteopathic treatments, as osteopathy is not yet recognized as a medical treatment method in Austria. Private supplementary insurance companies may cover the costs (partially or in full), depending on the policy.

Membership

I'm in my first year of training at an osteopathic school. Can I become a member yet?

Yes, it is possible to become an associate member.

Is maternity leave taken into account in the membership fee?

Yes, until the 2nd birthday of your child you pay only half the fee (birth certificate required)

What affect does my retirement have?

Retired members pay half the fee. Proof is required.

I've completed my basic training, but I'm still writing my diploma/master's thesis. Do I count as a student?

No, whenever you have finished your four yeras of basic training, however, you are a full member.

Training

Is any osteopathy training or study officially recognized in Austria?

There is currently no legal regulation for osteopathy in Austria (i.e., it is neither recognized nor prohibited by law). However, osteopaths trained at certain schools (e.g., WSO, IAO) can practice as physiotherapists or physicians based on the legal basis of their basic training. Some private health insurance companies already cover osteopathic treatments, and sometimes even regional health insurance funds.
The Austrian Society of Osteopathy (OEGO), which represents all osteopaths in Austria, has established certain standards for osteopathy training. Across Europe, the European Federation of Osteopathy, of which OEGO is a member, is working toward a uniform training standard and legal recognition of osteopathy.