Doctors, also known as physicians, are vital healthcare professionals dedicated to maintaining and restoring health. But What Does Doctors Do on a daily basis? Their roles are diverse and critical, encompassing a wide range of responsibilities aimed at patient well-being.
At the core, doctors diagnose illnesses and injuries. This involves taking patient histories, conducting physical examinations, and ordering and interpreting diagnostic tests. Based on their findings, doctors develop and implement treatment plans. These plans can include prescribing medication, performing surgery, recommending lifestyle changes, or administering therapies. Doctors also play a key role in preventative care, advising patients on healthy habits and strategies to avoid future health issues. Patient care extends beyond treatment to include ongoing support, communication, and education, ensuring patients understand their conditions and treatment options.
It’s important to note the different paths to becoming a doctor. In the United States, you might encounter both Doctors of Osteopathic Medicine (D.O.s) and Doctors of Medicine (M.D.s). Both D.O.s and M.D.s are fully licensed physicians who complete rigorous medical school and residency programs. While their training is largely similar, D.O.s receive additional training in osteopathic manipulative medicine (OMM), a hands-on approach to diagnosis and treatment through musculoskeletal manipulation. Regardless of their degree, all doctors must pass the same licensing exams and uphold the same standards of patient care.
In conclusion, what doctors do is multifaceted and essential to our health system. From diagnosing and treating illnesses to promoting wellness and providing compassionate care, doctors are central figures in helping individuals live healthier lives.
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.
