Doctors of Osteopathic Medicine, known as DOs, are fully licensed physicians who practice in every medical specialty. Graduating from osteopathic medical schools in the United States, DOs offer a unique approach to patient care. You might be wondering, “Do doctors with a DO degree have the same training as MDs?” The answer is largely yes, with a key distinction in their philosophy and training.
D.O. vs. M.D.: Core Similarities in Training and Licensing
The training pathway for both DOs and MDs (Doctors of Medicine) is rigorous and comprehensive. After completing medical school, both DOs and MDs are required to complete residency programs in their chosen specialties, which can range from family medicine to surgery. Crucially, both types of physicians must also pass the same standardized licensing examinations to be able to practice medicine, prescribe medication, and treat patients across the full spectrum of medical conditions. This shared licensing ensures that both DOs and MDs meet the same high standards of medical competency and patient care.
Key Difference: Osteopathic Manual Medicine (OMM)
While the foundational medical education is very similar, a core differentiator for DOs lies in their training in Osteopathic Manual Medicine (OMM). OMM is a hands-on approach to diagnosis and treatment that emphasizes the interconnectedness of the body’s systems. DOs are trained to use their hands to diagnose illness and injury, and to encourage the body’s natural healing capabilities. This might involve techniques like massage, stretching, and gentle pressure to treat musculoskeletal imbalances, relieve pain, and improve overall body function. While not all DOs utilize OMM in their practice, it represents a distinctive tool in their medical approach, focusing on treating the patient as a whole person, not just the symptoms.
Conclusion
In summary, DO doctors are indeed fully qualified physicians with training comparable to MDs. They undergo similar medical education, residency, and licensing processes. The primary distinction lies in the osteopathic philosophy and the potential use of Osteopathic Manual Medicine as a part of their treatment approach. Choosing between a DO and MD ultimately comes down to patient preference, as both are committed to providing excellent medical care.
