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What is a D.O.?
If you're like most people, you've been going to a doctor ever since you were born, and perhaps were not aware whether you were seeing a D.O. (osteopathic physician) or an M.D. (allopathic physician). You may not even be aware that there are two types of complete physicians in the United States.
The fact is, that both D.O.s and M.D.s are fully qualified physicians, licensed to perform surgery and prescribe medication. Is there any difference between these two kinds of doctors? Yes. And no.
D.O.s and M.D.s are alike in many ways:
- Applicants to both D.O. and M.D., medical colleges typically have a four-year undergraduate degree with an emphasis on scientific courses
- Both D.O.s and M.D.s complete four years of basic medical education
- After medical school, both D.O.s and M.D.s can choose to practice in a specialty area of medicine--such as pediatrics, family practice, psychiatry, surgery or obstetrics--after completing a residency program (typically two to six years of additional training)
- Both D.O.s and M.D.s must pass comparable state licensing examinations
- D.O.s and M.D.s both practice in fully accredited and licensed health care facilities
- D.O.s comprise a separate, yet equal branch of American medical care. Together D.O.s and M.D.s enhance the state of care available in America
An interesting fact to note:
The number of D.O.s has increased 67% since 1990.
