Typical Career Progression
Osteopaths nearly always commence working in another osteopath’s clinic. Often payment is based on negotiation around a percentage of taking and the number of patients you see. Clearly if you open your own business income is derived from your profits.
| |
Position |
Remuneration |
Experience |
Education |
| Start Position |
Associate Osteopath |
$40 - $60,000 |
New Graduate |
Masters |
| 1st Promotion |
Associate Osteopath |
$50 - $80,000 Varies on practice |
Good client base and experienced practitioner |
Masters |
| 2nd Promotion |
Senior Associate |
$70 - $100,000 |
Experienced osteopath with secure client base |
Masters |
| 3rd Promotion |
Business owner (working on own) |
$70 - $100,000 |
Experienced osteopath with secure client base |
Masters |
| 4th Promotion |
Principal Osteopath (owner) |
$80 - $150,000 |
Own and run practice with other osteopaths |
Masters |
*The above table is to be used as a guide only
Typical accountabilities and responsibilities
As with all health workers you are primarily responsible for the health and wellbeing of the patients you treat, or to refer them appropriately is needed. This includes the proper recording of notes or referral to other health practitioners. Further if you run your own business you will be responsible of the range of issues associated with that.
Career Path Options & Employment
Most new graduates will spend a few years working in a practice owned by an experienced osteopath. Here you will develop you skills; build a client base and a better understanding about how practices operate. Many more experienced osteopaths may then open their own practice or go into partnership with other osteopaths to build a business. After practicing generally for several years to build up your experience you also have the opportunity to specialise in specific treatment techniques.
After undertaking further study there is always the option to take up teaching at one of the universities offering osteopathy. You will then take on the responsibility of teaching others the relevant coursework to become registered osteopaths themselves. Another option again is to head into the field of research, endeavouring to deepen knowledge about osteopathic techniques.
About the Author
Australian Osteopathic Association
Antony Nicholas,Executive Director, AOA
The Australian Osteopathic Association (AOA) is the national professional body representing Osteopaths in Australia. Our core work is liaising with both state and federal government, all other statutory bodies regarding professional, educational, legislative and regulatory issues as well as private enterprise. Osteopaths are registered allied health practitioners, and one of the ten registered health professions in every state and territory of Australia.
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