Doctors play a crucial role in healthcare, and it’s common to encounter different titles. One such title is Doctor of Osteopathic Medicine, or D.O. Many people wonder about the training and qualifications of a D.O. compared to a Doctor of Medicine (M.D.). This article clarifies what a D.O. is and how their training compares to that of an M.D., focusing on the expertise of a Doctor Osteopathy.
What is a Doctor of Osteopathy?
A Doctor of Osteopathic Medicine (D.O.) is a fully licensed physician who practices in all areas of medicine. Just like M.D.s, D.O.s complete years of medical school, residency training, and must pass rigorous licensing exams. The primary distinction lies in their educational background; a doctor osteopathy graduates from a U.S. osteopathic medical school, while an M.D. graduates from a traditional medical school.
D.O. vs. M.D. Training and Approach
Both D.O.s and M.D.s receive comprehensive medical training, learning the foundations of medical science, diagnosis, treatment, and patient care. After completing medical school, both pursue residency training in specialized fields such as surgery, pediatrics, or internal medicine. Furthermore, both types of doctors are required to pass the same licensing examinations to become practicing physicians. This ensures that both D.O.s and M.D.s meet the same standards for medical competency.
However, a core aspect that distinguishes a doctor osteopathy is their training in osteopathic manipulative treatment (OMT). OMT is a hands-on approach involving manual techniques to diagnose, treat, and prevent illness or injury. This may include massage, stretching, and applying gentle pressure to move joints and tissues. While not all D.O.s utilize OMT in their practice, it is a foundational element of osteopathic medical education, providing them with a unique perspective on the body’s interconnected systems and musculoskeletal health.
Conclusion: Are D.O.s Real Doctors?
Absolutely. A doctor osteopathy is a fully qualified and licensed physician with comprehensive medical training comparable to that of an M.D. They are equipped to provide the full spectrum of medical care, from prescribing medication to performing surgery. The additional training in osteopathic principles and manual medicine offers D.O.s a distinct approach to patient care, emphasizing a holistic perspective and the body’s ability to heal. Choosing between a D.O. and M.D. ultimately comes down to individual patient preference and finding a doctor who best meets their healthcare needs.
References:
- What is a D.O.? American Osteopathic Association https://osteopathic.org/what-is-osteopathic-medicine/what-is-a-do/. Accessed Oct. 27, 2022.
- Roberts A, et al. Osteopathic manipulative medicine: A brief review of the hands-on treatment approaches and their therapeutic uses. Medicines. 2022; doi:10.3390/medicines9050033.
- Chin J, et al. Assessing the knowledge of the osteopathic profession in New York City’s Easter European communities. Cureus. 2022; doi:10.7759/cureus.21664.
