It’s common to see the letters “MD” after a doctor’s name, which stands for Doctor of Medicine. But you might have also encountered “DO.” What exactly does “DO” mean after a doctor’s name? The letters “DO” signify a Doctor of Osteopathic Medicine, or osteopathic physician. This article will explore what a DO is, the philosophy behind osteopathic medicine, and how DOs compare to MDs.
Understanding the “DO” Designation: Doctors of Osteopathic Medicine
Doctors of Osteopathic Medicine, or DOs, are fully licensed physicians who practice in all areas of medicine. Just like their MD (Doctor of Medicine) counterparts, DOs provide a full spectrum of medical care. The American Osteopathic Association (AOA) describes osteopathic medicine as a comprehensive healthcare system grounded in a philosophy that integrates patient needs with the contemporary practice of medicine.
The core of osteopathic medicine lies in a “whole-person” approach. DOs are trained to consider the interconnectedness of the body’s systems, taking into account the physical, mental, and emotional aspects of a patient’s health. Their goal extends beyond simply treating symptoms; they strive to help patients achieve holistic well-being, encompassing mind and body.
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This patient-centered, holistic approach originated with Dr. Andrew Taylor Still in the 19th century. Dr. Still was critical of the medical practices of his time, believing they often caused more harm than good. Witnessing the ineffectiveness of medical treatments during the Civil War, he shifted his focus to the body’s innate ability to heal. He emphasized preventive medicine and identified the crucial role of the musculoskeletal system in overall health. Dr. Still recognized the intricate relationship between muscles, nerves, bones, and organs, understanding that they all work together. In 1892, he established the American School of Osteopathy in Kirksville, Missouri, laying the foundation for osteopathic medical education.
Osteopathic Manipulative Treatment (OMT): A Hands-On Approach
A distinctive aspect of osteopathic medicine is Osteopathic Manipulative Treatment, or OMT. DOs are trained in OMT, a hands-on technique where they use their hands to diagnose, treat, and prevent illness or injury. Through OMT, DOs can manually examine the musculoskeletal system, including the back, joints, tendons, ligaments, and muscles. They assess for pain, restrictions in motion, and any signs of dysfunction that could indicate injury or impaired function.
While OMT often involves focusing on the back, it’s important to understand that DOs are not chiropractors. OMT is a medical treatment tailored to the individual patient, addressing the specific ways injuries occur and how these injuries manifest as symptoms throughout the body. It is a specific set of techniques within the broader scope of medical practice that DOs utilize.
DOs and MDs: Understanding the Equivalencies
In the United States, both MDs and DOs are recognized as fully licensed medical doctors. They are granted licenses by state and specialty boards, enabling them to practice medicine, perform surgery, and prescribe medications. The educational paths for both DOs and MDs are also very similar. Applicants typically hold a four-year undergraduate degree with a strong foundation in science. Both MD and DO programs involve four years of rigorous basic medical education.
Choosing between a DO and an MD is a matter of personal preference, as both are highly qualified and capable physicians for your healthcare needs.
In practice, DOs and MDs share numerous similarities:
- Specialization: Both DOs and MDs can pursue specialized areas of medicine, such as cardiology, surgery, pediatrics, or oncology.
- Residency Training: Both complete residency programs, which typically involve 3 to 6 years of intensive, specialized training after medical school.
- Licensing Exams: Both are required to pass comparable state licensing examinations to practice medicine.
- Legal Recognition: Legally, DOs and MDs hold equal standing as fully licensed physicians.
- Practice Settings: Both practice in accredited hospitals and medical centers nationwide, working alongside each other in various medical settings.
- Medical Procedures: Both are authorized to order medical tests, diagnose conditions, and perform medical procedures.
- Continuing Medical Education (CME): Both are mandated to engage in continuing medical education to maintain their credentials and licenses, ensuring they stay updated with the latest medical advancements.
Currently, there are approximately 135,000 osteopathic physicians practicing in the United States. Notably, osteopathic medical schools place a strong emphasis on primary care training. As a result, over half of all DOs specialize in primary care fields like pediatrics, obstetrics/gynecology, and internal medicine, playing a crucial role in community health.
Finding a Doctor of Osteopathic Medicine
If you are interested in finding a DO, there are several resources available. You can search online through the American Osteopathic Association’s doctor search tool at Find a DO (https://findado.osteopathic.org/).
You can also inquire with local osteopathic hospitals and state osteopathic medical associations for referrals. Furthermore, it’s increasingly common to find DOs and MDs practicing together within the same medical groups and healthcare systems, reflecting the integration of both types of physicians in modern healthcare.
In conclusion, the “DO” after a doctor’s name signifies a Doctor of Osteopathic Medicine, a fully qualified and licensed physician who brings a unique, holistic perspective to patient care. Understanding what “DO” means helps clarify the landscape of medical professionals and empowers patients to make informed choices about their healthcare providers.
