Philadelphia College of Osteopathic Medicine

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PCOM Archives 1908 Dissection Lab

Philadelphia College of Osteopathic Medicine (PCOM) is a private, non-profit graduate college located in Philadelphia, Pennsylvania, United States. Founded in 1899, it is one of the oldest medical schools in the country that focuses on osteopathic medicine, a distinct form of medical practice in the United States. Osteopathic medicine emphasizes a whole-person approach to treatment and care, with a special focus on preventive healthcare and the musculoskeletal system's role in achieving and maintaining health.

History

The college was established by a group of osteopathic physicians with the aim of improving the standards of osteopathic education. Since its inception, PCOM has grown significantly and now offers a variety of degree programs in the health sciences, including Doctor of Osteopathy (DO), Doctor of Pharmacy (PharmD), and masters and doctoral degrees in several fields such as psychology, biomedical sciences, and healthcare management.

Campus

PCOM's main campus is situated in Philadelphia, with an additional location in Suwanee, Georgia known as PCOM Georgia. The Philadelphia campus features state-of-the-art facilities, including modern classrooms, laboratories, a large library, and several research centers. The Georgia campus was established to extend PCOM's reach and offer its distinctive osteopathic education to students in the southeastern United States.

Academic Programs

PCOM offers a comprehensive range of academic programs through its various schools:

• The College of Osteopathic Medicine, which awards the DO degree, emphasizes a holistic approach to medicine, with a strong foundation in primary care and preventive medicine.
• The School of Pharmacy provides a PharmD program that prepares students for careers in various pharmacy settings.
• The School of Health Sciences offers graduate degrees in fields such as physical therapy, physician assistant studies, and forensic medicine.
• The School of Graduate Studies provides advanced degrees in biomedical sciences and healthcare management, among others.

Admissions

Admission to PCOM is competitive, with applicants evaluated on academic performance, MCAT scores, healthcare experience, and personal attributes that align with the college's mission and values. The college seeks students who demonstrate a commitment to the osteopathic philosophy and a desire to serve in healthcare.

Research

PCOM is actively involved in research, with a focus on areas relevant to osteopathic medicine, including musculoskeletal health, neuroscience, and chronic diseases. The college encourages student participation in research projects and offers several opportunities for students to engage in scholarly activities.

Community Engagement

PCOM is committed to serving the community through various outreach programs, health services, and educational initiatives. The college operates several healthcare centers that provide affordable care to underserved populations. Additionally, students and faculty are involved in health education, preventive care programs, and community service projects.

Notable Alumni

Over the years, PCOM has produced many distinguished alumni who have made significant contributions to the field of medicine, healthcare, and public service. These include leaders in medical practice, research, education, and health policy.

Conclusion

Philadelphia College of Osteopathic Medicine remains a prominent institution in the field of osteopathic medicine, with a long history of excellence in education, research, and community service. Its commitment to a holistic approach to healthcare and its contributions to the medical community continue to make it a key player in improving health outcomes.