A Doctor of Osteopathic Medicine (D.O.) is a fully licensed physician in the United States, just like a Doctor of Medicine (M.D.). D.O.s graduate from osteopathic medical schools and are trained to provide comprehensive medical care across all specialties. Often, the question arises: “What Does A Doctor Of Osteopathy Do” and how does their training compare to that of an M.D.? The answer lies in understanding the core principles and unique approach of osteopathic medicine.
Both D.O.s and M.D.s undergo rigorous medical education, including four years of medical school followed by residency training in a chosen specialty such as surgery, pediatrics, or internal medicine. They must also pass the same standardized licensing exams to be able to practice medicine, prescribe medication, and perform surgery. This ensures that both types of doctors meet the same high standards of medical competency and are qualified to provide excellent healthcare. Therefore, when considering “what does a doctor of osteopathy do”, it’s crucial to recognize their foundational medical training is on par with their M.D. counterparts.
The primary distinction lies in the philosophy and additional training of D.O.s in osteopathic medicine. Doctors of Osteopathy are trained to take a “whole person” approach to medicine, considering the interconnectedness of body systems and the influence of lifestyle and environmental factors on health. A key aspect of osteopathic training is learning Osteopathic Manipulative Treatment (OMT), also known as manual medicine. OMT involves hands-on techniques to diagnose, treat, and prevent illness or injury by manipulating muscles, joints, and tissues. This is a core element in understanding “what does a doctor of osteopathy do” differently. While not all D.O.s use OMT regularly in their practice, it provides them with an additional set of diagnostic and therapeutic tools, particularly useful in areas like musculoskeletal pain and rehabilitation.
In conclusion, a Doctor of Osteopathy is a fully qualified physician with comprehensive medical training equivalent to that of an M.D. They are licensed to diagnose and treat medical conditions, prescribe medications, and perform surgery. The unique aspect of D.O. training is their education in osteopathic philosophy and manual medicine, offering a holistic approach to patient care. When considering “what does a doctor of osteopathy do”, remember they are fully trained physicians who bring a unique perspective and skill set to patient care, emphasizing the body’s innate ability to heal and the importance of the musculoskeletal system in overall health. If you are seeking a physician, a D.O. can provide the same high-quality medical care as an M.D., with the potential added benefit of osteopathic manipulative treatment.
