A Doctor of Osteopathic Medicine (DO) is a fully licensed physician who practices in the United States. Like medical doctors (MDs), DOs complete years of rigorous medical training and are qualified to diagnose illnesses, prescribe medication, and perform surgery. You might be wondering, “What Is The Doctor” if they are a D.O. and not an M.D.? The core difference lies in their approach to patient care and a unique set of skills they bring to the table.
Both DOs and MDs attend medical school, but DOs attend osteopathic medical schools. These schools provide comprehensive training in all areas of medicine, similar to traditional medical schools. After medical school, both DOs and MDs must complete residency programs to specialize in a specific area of medicine, such as family medicine, surgery, or cardiology. They also must pass the same national licensing exams to become practicing physicians. This ensures that both types of doctors meet the same high standards of medical competence.
The distinctive aspect of osteopathic medicine is its holistic philosophy and emphasis on the musculoskeletal system. DOs are trained in Osteopathic Manipulative Treatment (OMT), a set of hands-on techniques used to diagnose, treat, and prevent illness or injury. OMT allows DOs to use their hands to gently move and adjust a patient’s muscles and joints. This manual medicine approach can be used to relieve pain, improve range of motion, and support the body’s natural ability to heal. While not all DOs utilize OMT in their practice, it remains a core component of osteopathic medical education and represents a unique tool in their approach to patient care.
In conclusion, a DO is a qualified and licensed doctor who has completed extensive medical training comparable to that of an MD. The main difference is that DOs receive additional training in osteopathic principles and manual medicine. When choosing a doctor, consider your individual health needs and preferences. Whether you choose a DO or an MD, you are choosing a highly trained professional dedicated to providing quality healthcare.
