Choosing a doctor can be a significant health decision. In the United States, you’ll primarily encounter two types of physicians: Doctors of Osteopathic Medicine (DOs) and Doctors of Medicine (MDs). While both are fully licensed physicians who practice medicine, there are some core differences in their training and approach to patient care. Understanding these differences can empower you to make informed choices about your healthcare journey.
Similarities in Training and Practice: MDs and DOs
Both MDs and DOs complete rigorous medical school training, typically four years, after earning a bachelor’s degree. Their education covers the fundamental medical sciences including anatomy, physiology, pharmacology, and pathology. They both undergo clinical rotations in various medical specialties like surgery, internal medicine, pediatrics, and obstetrics/gynecology.
Furthermore, both MDs and DOs must pass national licensing exams to practice medicine. MDs typically take the United States Medical Licensing Examination (USMLE), while DOs take the Comprehensive Osteopathic Medical Licensing Examination of the United States (COMLEX-USA). Both exams are recognized for licensure across the United States. Upon completion of medical school and passing their licensing exams, both MDs and DOs complete residency training, which can last from three to seven years depending on their chosen specialty. Residency is where they gain specialized, hands-on experience in their chosen field, from family medicine to neurosurgery.
Importantly, numerous studies confirm that the quality of care provided by MDs and DOs is comparable. For instance, a study analyzing Medicare patient outcomes found virtually identical results in length of hospital stays, readmission rates, mortality rates, and healthcare costs whether patients were treated by an MD or a DO. This highlights that both types of physicians are highly qualified to provide excellent medical care.
Key Differences: Exploring the Variations Between DO and MD
While the similarities are substantial, some key distinctions set DOs and MDs apart, primarily in their philosophy of care and training emphasis.
Number of Physicians and Admission Standards
MDs are more prevalent in the United States. Approximately 9 out of 10 physicians in the US with a medical school background hold an MD degree. Studies indicate that DOs account for roughly 19% of patient visits, while MDs account for 81%.
While both allopathic (MD-granting) and osteopathic medical schools are competitive, applicants to osteopathic medical schools generally have slightly lower average GPAs and MCAT scores compared to those admitted to MD programs. This difference in admission statistics does not necessarily reflect the caliber of DO students. Osteopathic medical schools are fewer in number, representing about a quarter of total US medical student enrollment. However, interest in osteopathic medicine is growing significantly, with a 68% increase in DO program enrollment between 2011-2012 and 2021-2022.
The Osteopathic Approach: Holistic and Hands-On
A fundamental difference lies in the osteopathic philosophy, which emphasizes a “whole-person” or holistic approach to medicine. DOs are trained to consider the interconnectedness of body systems – how the musculoskeletal system, nerves, and organs work together to influence health.
A defining element of DO training is Osteopathic Manipulative Medicine (OMM), also known as Osteopathic Manipulative Treatment (OMT). DO students receive approximately 200 hours of dedicated training in OMM techniques. OMM is a hands-on approach used to diagnose, treat, and prevent illness or injury by manipulating muscles, joints, and tissues. OMM can be used to address a wide range of conditions, including back pain, neck pain, headaches, and other musculoskeletal problems.
Contrasting Approaches to Medicine: Targeted vs. Holistic
MDs are typically trained to focus on specific symptoms to arrive at a diagnosis. Their treatment approach often targets the specific disease or condition. While some MDs may incorporate holistic principles, the traditional MD approach tends to be more targeted and symptom-focused.
DOs, with their osteopathic training, inherently integrate a holistic perspective. They consider the patient’s lifestyle, environment, and body as a unified system when diagnosing and treating illness. This often leads DOs to emphasize preventative medicine and lifestyle modifications as part of a comprehensive treatment plan. They may be more likely to recommend lifestyle changes alongside medication or surgery compared to MDs, owing to their training in OMM and holistic principles.
Conclusion: Choosing the Right Doctor for You
Both Doctors of Osteopathic Medicine and Doctors of Medicine are highly qualified and rigorously trained physicians capable of providing excellent medical care. The choice between a DO and an MD ultimately comes down to personal preference. If you are looking for a physician who emphasizes a holistic approach and may utilize hands-on techniques like OMM, a DO might be a good fit. If you prefer a more conventional, symptom-focused approach, an MD could be suitable. Regardless of the degree, the most important aspect is finding a doctor with whom you feel comfortable and who meets your individual healthcare needs.
