If you’re wondering “What Type Of Doctor Is A Do?”, you’re not alone. It’s a common question for those navigating the healthcare system. The short answer is: a DO, or Doctor of Osteopathic Medicine, is indeed a fully licensed physician in the United States, authorized to diagnose illnesses, prescribe medication, and perform surgery. They are just as qualified as their M.D. (Doctor of Medicine) counterparts to provide comprehensive medical care.
Defining a Doctor of Osteopathic Medicine (DO)
The designation D.O. stands for Doctor of Osteopathic Medicine. These physicians graduate from osteopathic medical schools, which are accredited institutions that provide rigorous and comprehensive medical education. Similar to M.D. granting institutions, osteopathic medical schools offer a four-year curriculum encompassing basic sciences, clinical training, and specialized medical disciplines. Therefore, a D.O. is not a limited type of practitioner but a complete physician with broad medical knowledge and skills.
DO vs. MD: Similarities and Training
Often, the question “what kind of doctor is a do” arises when comparing them to M.D.s. Both DOs and MDs complete extensive medical education, including undergraduate studies, four years of medical school, and then postgraduate residency training in a chosen specialty such as family medicine, surgery, pediatrics, or cardiology. Residency can last from three to seven years, depending on the specialty. Furthermore, both DOs and MDs must pass comparable licensing examinations to practice medicine. This ensures that all licensed physicians, regardless of whether they are a DO or MD, meet nationally recognized standards of medical competence.
The Osteopathic Approach: Integrating Manual Medicine
While the core medical training is largely parallel, a key differentiator lies in the osteopathic philosophy and the incorporation of osteopathic manipulative treatment (OMT). Osteopathic medicine emphasizes a “whole-person” approach to healthcare, considering the interconnectedness of body systems and the influence of lifestyle and environmental factors on health. As part of this philosophy, many Doctors of Osteopathic Medicine utilize manual medicine techniques, also known as osteopathic manipulative treatment.
Manual medicine involves hands-on techniques, including therapeutic massage, joint mobilization, and tissue stretching, to diagnose, treat, and prevent illness or injury. DOs who utilize manual medicine believe that by addressing musculoskeletal imbalances, they can improve the body’s overall function and facilitate healing. However, it’s important to note that not all DOs utilize manual medicine in their practice; many focus solely on conventional medical treatments, similar to MDs.
Conclusion: DOs as Fully Qualified Physicians
In conclusion, to clearly answer “what type of doctor is a DO?”, it’s essential to understand they are fully qualified and licensed physicians who have completed rigorous medical training and are equipped to provide a full spectrum of medical care. While some DOs integrate manual medicine into their practice, all DOs are trained in and capable of utilizing all conventional medical treatments, making them an excellent choice for primary care and specialized medical needs. Patients can be confident in the expertise and comprehensive care offered by Doctors of Osteopathic Medicine.
