Orlando College of Osteopathic Medicine

Orlando College of Osteopathic Medicine is a medical school located in Orlando, Florida, United States. It specializes in educating osteopathic physicians, known as DOs (Doctor of Osteopathic Medicine). Osteopathic medicine is a branch of the medical profession in the United States that emphasizes a whole-person approach to healthcare, focusing not just on the treatment of symptoms but on understanding the patient's lifestyle and environment. DOs are licensed to practice the full scope of medicine and surgery in all 50 states and are recognized for their emphasis on primary care, preventive health, and the musculoskeletal system.

History

The Orlando College of Osteopathic Medicine was established to address the growing need for physicians in Florida and across the United States, particularly those trained in osteopathic principles and practices. The college aims to produce competent and compassionate osteopathic physicians who are prepared to meet the challenges of the evolving healthcare landscape.

Programs

The college offers a four-year Doctor of Osteopathic Medicine (DO) program, which is designed to provide students with a comprehensive education in medical sciences and clinical skills. The curriculum is divided into two phases: the pre-clinical phase, which covers basic sciences and foundational medical knowledge, and the clinical phase, which offers hands-on experience in various medical specialties through rotations in hospitals and clinics.

In addition to the DO program, Orlando College of Osteopathic Medicine may offer other graduate programs related to health sciences, such as Master's degrees in public health or biomedical sciences, although specific offerings can vary.

Admissions

Admission to the Orlando College of Osteopathic Medicine is competitive, with applicants evaluated on a variety of criteria, including undergraduate GPA, Medical College Admission Test (MCAT) scores, letters of recommendation, and personal interviews. The college seeks candidates who demonstrate a commitment to the osteopathic profession, community service, and leadership potential.

Facilities

The campus of Orlando College of Osteopathic Medicine features state-of-the-art facilities designed to support the education and training of its students. This typically includes lecture halls, laboratories, a medical library, simulation centers, and clinical skills labs. These facilities provide students with the opportunity to learn and practice medical procedures in a controlled environment before beginning their clinical rotations.

Accreditation

The college is accredited by the Commission on Osteopathic College Accreditation (COCA), which is the accrediting agency for all osteopathic medical schools in the United States. This accreditation ensures that the college meets or exceeds specific standards of quality and that its graduates are eligible to participate in residency programs and obtain licensure to practice medicine.

Community Engagement

Orlando College of Osteopathic Medicine is committed to serving the community through various outreach and service programs. These may include health fairs, free clinics, and educational seminars aimed at improving health awareness and access to care in underserved populations. The college encourages students to participate in these activities as part of their education and training.

Research

Research is an important component of the academic environment at Orlando College of Osteopathic Medicine. Students and faculty are involved in research projects that cover a wide range of topics in medical sciences, with a particular emphasis on issues relevant to primary care, preventive health, and osteopathic principles and practices.