Osteopathic doctors, also known as Doctors of Osteopathic Medicine (D.O.s), are fully licensed physicians who practice in every medical specialty. Like their M.D. (Doctor of Medicine) counterparts, Osteo Doctors complete four years of medical school. However, osteopathic medical schools offer additional training in osteopathic manipulative treatment (OMT).
The core distinction lies in their holistic approach to patient care. While both D.O.s and M.D.s receive comprehensive medical education, osteo doctors are trained to consider the interconnectedness of the body’s systems. This includes learning OMT, a set of hands-on techniques used to diagnose, treat, and prevent illness or injury by manipulating muscles and joints. It’s important to note that not all osteo doctors utilize OMT in their practice, but it remains a foundational aspect of their training.
Following medical school, osteo doctors pursue residencies in their chosen specialties, just as M.D.s do. These residencies provide in-depth training and experience in areas such as surgery, pediatrics, or internal medicine. Furthermore, to ensure competency and patient safety, osteo doctors must pass the same national licensing exams as M.D.s to become board certified and practice medicine.
In conclusion, osteo doctors are highly qualified medical professionals equipped to provide a full spectrum of medical care. Their unique training in osteopathic principles and manual medicine offers an additional dimension to their diagnostic and treatment approaches, making them a valuable choice for patients seeking comprehensive and holistic healthcare.
