The WellSpring Consumer Guide

When you are looking for a practitioner in any area of health or wellbeing trust and rapport are the two most important considerations.

Competence is a difficult thing to assess - it tends to be a matter of trial and error.
Word of mouth is still a powerful tool. Nothing replaces personal experience and recommendation.

One of the fundamental beliefs we hold is that you are responsible for your own well being. It is up to you to be sure about the practitioners you choose.Most of the time there is no substitute for common sense and trusting your instincts.

Check Credentials and training.

You should be reassured that the practitioner can recognize undiagnosed, serious conditions and refer you to seek medical help if the suspected problem is beyond his or her expertise.

If the practice is physically invasive you should be especially vigilant. This applies to disciplines such as chiropractic, osteopathy and acupuncture. It may be worth asking your doctor for a recommendation.

Some General Practitioners may also be qualified to perform other disciplines such as acupuncture. or homeopathy. This does not mean they are more qualified than other specialist Practitioners

If you are consulting a practitioner in a discrete discipline such as: Chiropractic, Osteopathy, Herbal Medicine, Naturopathy that use either physical manipulation or invasive techniques (swallowing medicines or use needles etc) ask to see qualifications and ask about training.

• How long have they been in practice?
  
• Does the practitioner advise your usual healthcare practitioner of the treatment given?
  
• Are they members of professional organizations - is there a public register?
  
• Does their organization have a code of practice?
  
• Are there disciplinary procedures and sanctions?
  
• Can the practitioner give you the address and phone number of their professional organization.

• Can you claim against your medical insurance or receive accident compensation?
  
• What will be the extent/duration of the treatment?
  
• Does the practitioner have professional indemnity?

As a general rule you should avoid any practitioner you feel uncomfortable with.
Trust and empathy are important, regardless of the treatment you will receive - but especially if the treatment involves removing clothing or involves touching. Avoid Practitioners who make excessive claims about treatment or who guarantee a cure. No form of treatment - conventional or complimentary is perfect. Miracles should never be expected, or promised.

• Was the practitioner professional?
  
• Did the practitioner answer my questions clearly and thoroughly
  
• Were you given information to work through at your leisure?
  
• What was the practitioner's attitude toward conventional medicine you may be receiving. (Be cautious about any practitioner who suggests changing your medicine without consulting with your doctor, or the healthcare professional who has recommended it or prescribed it).