Choosing a medical doctor can be a significant decision, and you might encounter doctors with either an MD (Doctor of Medicine) or DO (Doctor of Osteopathic Medicine) degree. While both are fully licensed physicians, understanding the nuances between them can help you make informed choices about your healthcare or career path in medicine. This article will explore the similarities and differences between MDs and DOs, providing clarity on their education, training, and approach to patient care.
Similarities in Training and Practice
Both MDs and DOs complete rigorous medical training and are licensed to practice medicine in all 50 states. They both undergo years of education, including:
- Undergraduate Education: A bachelor’s degree is required for both MD and DO programs.
- Medical School: Both MD and DO candidates attend four years of medical school.
- Residency: After medical school, both must complete a residency program, which can last from three to seven years depending on their chosen specialty.
- Licensing Exams: Crucially, both MDs and DOs must pass a licensing exam to practice medicine. The specific exam can vary by state.
It’s important to note that the quality of care provided by MDs and DOs is comparable. A study analyzing over 300,000 Medicare patients found virtually identical outcomes in terms of length of hospital stay, readmission rates, mortality rates, and healthcare costs, whether patients were treated by an MD or a DO.
Key Differences: Osteopathic Medicine and Holistic Approach
While the fundamental medical education is similar, DO programs incorporate additional training in osteopathic medicine. Osteopathic medicine emphasizes a “whole-person” approach to healthcare, recognizing the interconnectedness of the body’s systems. This philosophy is rooted in the idea that the musculoskeletal system plays a vital role in overall health.
Osteopathic Manipulative Medicine (OMM): A core component of DO training is Osteopathic Manipulative Medicine (OMM), also sometimes referred to as Osteopathic Manipulative Treatment (OMT). DO students receive approximately 200 hours of training in OMM techniques. These hands-on techniques are used to diagnose, treat, and prevent illness or injury by manipulating muscles, bones, and nerves. OMM can be used to address a range of conditions, particularly musculoskeletal issues like back pain, neck pain, and muscle strains.
Holistic vs. Targeted Approaches: This osteopathic philosophy often translates into a slightly different approach to patient care. DOs are trained to consider the patient’s lifestyle, environment, and overall well-being when diagnosing and treating medical conditions. They tend to emphasize preventative medicine and may focus on lifestyle modifications as part of a treatment plan.
MDs, while equally capable of providing holistic care, are traditionally trained in an allopathic approach. This approach generally focuses on identifying symptoms, diagnosing specific diseases, and using targeted treatments such as medication or surgery to address those diseases. However, it is worth noting that many MDs also adopt holistic principles in their practice.
Prevalence and Educational Background
MDs are more numerous in the United States. Approximately 9 out of 10 doctors who graduated from U.S. medical schools hold an MD degree. Studies indicate that around 19% of doctor’s visits are to DOs, compared to 81% to MDs.
While both MD and DO medical schools are competitive, students entering colleges of osteopathic medicine may statistically present with slightly lower average GPAs and MCAT scores compared to those entering allopathic medical schools. However, this difference in admission statistics does not reflect the quality or capability of DO graduates. Interest in osteopathic medicine is growing, with a significant increase in enrollment in DO programs in recent years.
Conclusion: Choosing the Right Medical Doctor
Ultimately, both MDs and DOs are highly qualified and rigorously trained medical professionals. The choice between an MD and DO often comes down to personal preference and the patient’s values. If you are seeking a doctor who emphasizes a holistic approach and incorporates osteopathic manipulative treatment, a DO might be a good fit. If you prefer a more traditional, targeted approach, an MD could be suitable. Regardless of the degree, the most important factor is finding a doctor who is knowledgeable, compassionate, and a good communicator, ensuring you receive the best possible medical care.
