American Academy of Osteopathy

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  Logo of the American Academy of Osteopathy

American Academy of Osteopathy

The American Academy of Osteopathy (AAO) is a professional organization dedicated to the advancement of osteopathic medicine, particularly focusing on osteopathic manipulative medicine (OMM). The AAO serves as a resource for osteopathic physicians, providing education, research, and advocacy to promote the unique principles and practices of osteopathy.

History

The American Academy of Osteopathy was founded in 1937 to support the practice and teaching of osteopathic manipulative treatment (OMT). The organization was established to ensure that the principles of osteopathy, as developed by Andrew Taylor Still, were preserved and advanced within the medical community. Over the years, the AAO has grown to include thousands of members who are committed to the practice and teaching of OMM.

Mission and Goals

The mission of the AAO is to teach, advocate, and research the science, art, and philosophy of osteopathic medicine, with a particular emphasis on OMM. The organization's goals include:

• Promoting the understanding and application of osteopathic principles and practices.
• Providing high-quality educational programs for osteopathic physicians and students.
• Supporting research in osteopathic medicine and OMM.
• Advocating for the integration of osteopathic principles in healthcare systems.

Educational Programs

The AAO offers a variety of educational programs designed to enhance the skills and knowledge of osteopathic physicians. These programs include:

• Annual Convocation: A major event that brings together osteopathic physicians and students for lectures, workshops, and hands-on training in OMM.
• Continuing Medical Education (CME): Courses and workshops that provide ongoing education in osteopathic principles and techniques.
• Fellowship in Osteopathic Manipulative Medicine (FAAO): A prestigious fellowship program that recognizes advanced expertise in OMM.

Research

The AAO is committed to advancing research in osteopathic medicine. The organization supports studies that explore the efficacy and mechanisms of OMM, as well as research that investigates the broader applications of osteopathic principles in healthcare. The AAO collaborates with academic institutions and research organizations to promote evidence-based practice in osteopathy.

Advocacy

The AAO advocates for the recognition and integration of osteopathic medicine within the broader healthcare system. The organization works with policymakers, healthcare organizations, and other stakeholders to promote the value of osteopathic principles and practices. The AAO also supports efforts to ensure that osteopathic physicians are recognized and valued within the medical community.

Membership

Membership in the AAO is open to osteopathic physicians, students, and other healthcare professionals who are interested in osteopathic medicine. Members benefit from access to educational resources, networking opportunities, and the ability to participate in the organization's advocacy efforts.

Related Pages

• Osteopathy
• Osteopathic manipulative medicine
• Andrew Taylor Still
• American Osteopathic Association