Table 3 The ten prevalent expectations that were unmet overall (fourteen unmet for new patients) ranked by % with unmet positive expectations

I was made aware that there is a complaints procedure should I need to use it

There was communication between my osteopath and GP about my problem

I was informed of the risks and side effects of the treatment

There was access for people with disability

The osteopath was able to refer me elsewhere when my symptoms did not improve

I was asked about the effects of previous treatment

The osteopath assured me that my details were kept confidential

I was given the opportunity to receive advice from the osteopath over the telephone

Before my first appointment I was given information about what would happen during treatment.

I was given advice on how to prevent the problem happening again

The osteopath did not treat other patients at the same time as me

I was given activities and exercises to do at home

I did see evidence of the osteopaths’ qualifications

I was given information about the benefits of treatment