The DO

The Doctor of Osteopathic Medicine (DO) is a professional doctoral degree for physicians and surgeons offered by medical schools in the United States. A DO graduate may become licensed as a physician, having equivalent rights, privileges, and responsibilities as a physician who has earned the Doctor of Medicine (MD) degree. Osteopathic medicine is a distinct branch of medical practice in the United States emphasizing a whole-person approach to care, and it incorporates the use of manual manipulation of the muscles and bones to diagnose, treat, and prevent illness.

History

The history of osteopathic medicine began with the founding of the first school of osteopathy by Andrew Taylor Still in 1892 in Kirksville, Missouri. Still was dissatisfied with the effectiveness of 19th-century medicine and believed that many medications were harmful. He focused on the body's innate ability to heal itself and stressed preventive medicine, healthy living, and the importance of the musculoskeletal system in the overall health of an individual.

Education and Training

The path to becoming a DO involves completing a four-year undergraduate degree, followed by four years of medical school. Osteopathic medical schools emphasize the whole-person approach to treatment, with a special focus on the musculoskeletal system, which is the interconnected system of nerves, muscles, and bones that make up two-thirds of the body's mass. Osteopathic medical students receive extra training in Osteopathic Manipulative Treatment (OMT), a hands-on method used to diagnose, treat, and prevent illness and injury.

After medical school, DO graduates must complete a residency program, which can range from three to seven years, depending on the chosen specialty. DOs can choose to practice in any specialty of medicine, including surgery, family medicine, psychiatry, and more.

Licensing and Practice

In the United States, DOs are licensed to practice the full scope of medicine and surgery in all 50 states. They must pass the Comprehensive Osteopathic Medical Licensing Examination (COMLEX-USA) to obtain licensure. Some DOs also choose to take the United States Medical Licensing Examination (USMLE), which is the same licensing exam taken by MD graduates.

Philosophy

The philosophy of osteopathic medicine is centered on a holistic approach to patient care. DOs are trained to look beyond the symptoms of illness and disease to examine the overall health and lifestyle of the patient. This approach is rooted in the belief that all body systems are interrelated and dependent upon one another for good health. Osteopathic physicians use OMT to help patients find relief from pain, to promote healing and mobility, and to improve bodily function.

Comparison with MD

While DOs and MDs are both fully qualified physicians who can practice medicine in all its aspects, there are differences in training and philosophy. MD education is traditionally focused more on the biochemical aspects of diseases and their treatment, while DO training places additional emphasis on the musculoskeletal system, preventive medicine, and holistic patient care. However, both DOs and MDs use evidence-based medicine to diagnose and treat patients.

Global Recognition

While the DO degree is recognized in the United States as equivalent to the MD degree, international recognition varies. Some countries recognize the DO degree as equivalent to their domestic medical degrees, while others do not. DOs who wish to practice outside the United States may need to meet additional requirements or undergo further testing depending on the host country's regulations.

Conclusion

The Doctor of Osteopathic Medicine degree represents a unique approach to healthcare in the United States, emphasizing a holistic, patient-centered approach to medical care and the importance of the musculoskeletal system in maintaining health. DOs play a vital role in the American healthcare system, working alongside MDs and other healthcare professionals to provide comprehensive care to patients.