Seeking the right kind of medical care is a crucial decision for your health and well-being. If you’re searching for a “Doctor Of Osteopathic Medicine Near Me,” you might be wondering exactly what a D.O. is and how their training compares to that of a traditional medical doctor (M.D.). It’s important to understand the qualifications and approaches of different medical professionals to make informed choices about your healthcare. Let’s clarify what a Doctor of Osteopathic Medicine does and how they can serve your health needs.
What Exactly is a D.O.?
A Doctor of Osteopathic Medicine (D.O.) is a fully licensed physician who has completed extensive medical training and is qualified to diagnose, treat, and prevent illness and injury. Just like a Doctor of Medicine (M.D.), a D.O. must graduate from an accredited medical school, complete a residency program, and pass rigorous licensing exams to practice medicine. The key distinction lies in the type of medical school they attend. D.O.s graduate from osteopathic medical schools in the United States, while M.D.s graduate from traditional allopathic medical schools. Both types of physicians are rigorously trained in all areas of medicine.
D.O. vs. M.D.: Understanding the Training Differences
While both D.O.s and M.D.s undergo similar core medical training, there is a unique aspect to osteopathic medical education. Doctors of Osteopathic Medicine receive comprehensive training in osteopathic philosophy and osteopathic manipulative treatment (OMT). OMT is a hands-on approach to healthcare that involves using the hands to diagnose, treat, and prevent illness or injury. This may include techniques such as therapeutic massage, joint mobilization, and other manual therapies to address musculoskeletal imbalances and improve the body’s overall function.
This additional training in osteopathic medicine provides D.O.s with a holistic perspective on patient care. They are trained to consider the interconnectedness of the body’s systems and how the musculoskeletal system can influence overall health. While not all D.O.s utilize OMT in their practice, it remains a core element of their training and a valuable tool in their medical approach.
Comparable Training, Shared Licensing
It’s crucial to reiterate that after medical school, both D.O.s and M.D.s pursue postgraduate residency training in their chosen specialties. This residency period is where they gain specialized skills and in-depth knowledge in areas such as surgery, internal medicine, pediatrics, or any other medical field. Furthermore, both D.O.s and M.D.s are required to pass the same licensing examinations to become board-certified and practice medicine. This ensures that both types of physicians meet the same high standards of medical competency and are equally qualified to provide patient care, prescribe medications, and perform medical procedures.
Why Consider a Doctor of Osteopathic Medicine?
When searching for a “doctor of osteopathic medicine near me,” you are seeking a physician who is fully qualified to meet your healthcare needs with a potentially broader approach to care. D.O.s are trained to consider the whole person – body, mind, and spirit – and how lifestyle and environmental factors impact health. If you are interested in a physician who may utilize hands-on techniques as part of your treatment plan, or if you value a holistic approach to medicine, then a D.O. could be an excellent choice for you. They practice in all fields of medicine, from primary care to highly specialized surgical fields.
Finding a D.O. Near You
Locating a “doctor of osteopathic medicine near me” is easier than ever. Many online directories and search tools allow you to specifically search for D.O.s in your area. The American Osteopathic Association (AOA) also provides resources to help you find a D.O. Remember, choosing the right doctor is a personal decision. Understanding the qualifications and approach of a Doctor of Osteopathic Medicine can empower you to make the best choice for your healthcare needs and find a qualified physician in your local community.
References:
- What is a D.O.? American Osteopathic Association https://osteopathic.org/what-is-osteopathic-medicine/what-is-a-do/. Accessed Oct. 27, 2022.
- Roberts A, et al. Osteopathic manipulative medicine: A brief review of the hands-on treatment approaches and their therapeutic uses. Medicines. 2022; doi:10.3390/medicines9050033.
- Chin J, et al. Assessing the knowledge of the osteopathic profession in New York City’s Easter European communities. Cureus. 2022; doi:10.7759/cureus.21664.
