OSTEOPATHY

THERE IS A DIFFERENCE

What is a D.O.?

What is an M.D.?

There are two types of physicians in the United States. One has a D.O. (Doctor of Osteopathic Medicine) degree, and the other has an M.D. (Doctor of Medicine) degree. Each of these physicians has taken the prescribed amount of pre-medical training, graduated from an undergraduate college, and received four years of training in a medical school. The physician then takes a one-year internship in a hospital with an approved intern training program. If he/she elects to enter any medical specialty, the doctor engages in an additional two to six-year residency program. Whether one becomes a D.O. or an M.D., the route of complete medical training is basically the same.

 D.O.'s and M.D.'s are alike in that they both utilize scientifically accepted methods of diagnosis and treatment, including the use of drugs and surgery.

Education requirements are the same, and most boards of examiners make the same requirements for and give the same examination to D.O. and M.D. applicants. Osteopathic physicians are licensed to practice all phases of medicine in all 50 states of the union.

WHAT IS THE DIFFERENCE?

The difference is that Osteopathic physicians have an additional dimension to their training and practice, not taught in medical schools giving M.D. degrees. Muscles, bones and joints make up over 60 percent of body mass, and all body systems are inter-dependent and affect one another. Recognizing this, Osteopathic physicians use structural diagnosis and manipulative therapy along with all of the other more traditional forms of diagnosis and treatment to effectively care for patients. This emphasis is an advantage which provides a broader base for the treatment of the whole person.