Do Osteopathic Physicians Also Consider Themselves Medical Doctors?

Yes, osteopathic physicians (DOs) absolutely consider themselves medical doctors. They are licensed physicians who practice medicine and surgery and are fully recognized as equivalent to allopathic physicians (MDs) in the United States.

The Doctor Is In: Understanding Osteopathic Medicine

The term “medical doctor” often conjures an image of an allopathic physician (MD). However, the field of medicine is broader than many realize, encompassing both MDs and osteopathic physicians (DOs). Understanding the nuances of osteopathic medicine is crucial to answering the question: Do Osteopathic Physicians Also Consider Themselves Medical Doctors?

Roots and Principles: A Brief History

Osteopathic medicine originated in the late 19th century with Dr. Andrew Taylor Still. Frustrated with the limited effectiveness and sometimes harmful treatments of the day, he developed a philosophy centered on the body’s inherent ability to heal itself.

He emphasized the interconnectedness of the body’s systems.
He focused on the importance of the musculoskeletal system in overall health.
He developed osteopathic manipulative treatment (OMT) to address structural imbalances and improve the body’s function.

OMT: The Unique Osteopathic Tool

Osteopathic Manipulative Treatment (OMT) is a hands-on technique used by DOs to diagnose, treat, and prevent illness or injury. It involves a variety of gentle movements, stretches, and pressure to:

Relieve pain.
Restore motion.
Improve circulation.
Enhance the body’s natural healing capabilities.

While OMT distinguishes DOs from MDs, it is just one tool in their comprehensive medical toolkit.

Training and Education: The Path to Becoming a DO

The training path for DOs closely mirrors that of MDs. It involves:

A four-year bachelor’s degree.
A four-year medical school program (either an osteopathic medical school for DOs or an allopathic medical school for MDs).
Residency training in a chosen specialty (e.g., family medicine, surgery, cardiology).

The curricula are very similar, covering the same basic sciences, clinical disciplines, and medical knowledge. The key difference lies in the additional training DOs receive in OMT.

Scope of Practice: What DOs Can Do

DOs are fully licensed physicians with the same scope of practice as MDs. They can:

Diagnose illnesses.
Prescribe medications.
Perform surgery.
Admit patients to hospitals.
Specialize in any area of medicine.

In short, DOs can and do all the things that MDs do. This directly supports the affirmation that Do Osteopathic Physicians Also Consider Themselves Medical Doctors?

The Growing Recognition of DOs

Once viewed as a separate and sometimes less respected branch of medicine, osteopathic medicine has gained significant recognition in recent decades. The number of DOs in practice has steadily increased, and they are now an integral part of the healthcare system.

Many prestigious hospitals and healthcare systems employ DOs.
DOs serve in leadership positions in medical organizations.
The Accreditation Council for Graduate Medical Education (ACGME) now accredits both MD and DO residency programs under a single system.

Public Perception and Understanding

While acceptance is growing, some misconceptions about osteopathic medicine persist. It’s important to understand that DOs are not simply “back doctors” or limited to musculoskeletal care. They are fully trained physicians who provide comprehensive medical care to patients of all ages and with a wide range of conditions. They are medical doctors who bring a unique perspective and skill set to their practice.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

Are DOs real doctors?

Yes, DOs are absolutely real doctors with the same legal rights and responsibilities as MDs. They complete rigorous medical training, pass licensing exams, and are fully qualified to practice medicine and surgery.

What is the difference between a DO and an MD?

The primary difference lies in the philosophy of care and the training in OMT. DOs are trained to consider the whole person and to utilize hands-on techniques to diagnose and treat musculoskeletal problems. However, their overall medical training is very similar to that of MDs.

Can DOs specialize in any area of medicine?

Absolutely. DOs can specialize in any area of medicine, including family medicine, internal medicine, pediatrics, surgery, cardiology, oncology, and more.

Is osteopathic medicine the same as chiropractic?

No. While both professions focus on the musculoskeletal system, osteopathic medicine is a complete system of medical care encompassing all aspects of health and disease. Chiropractic focuses primarily on the spine.

Do DOs prescribe medication?

Yes, DOs have full prescribing privileges and can prescribe any medication that an MD can prescribe.

Do DOs perform surgery?

Yes, DOs are trained and licensed to perform surgery and do so in a variety of specialties.

Are DOs recognized by insurance companies?

Yes, DOs are recognized by all major insurance companies and Medicare/Medicaid.

Do I need a referral to see a DO?

The need for a referral depends on your insurance plan. Some plans require referrals, while others do not. It’s best to check with your insurance provider.

Are DOs board-certified?

Yes, DOs are eligible for board certification in their chosen specialties, just like MDs.

Do DOs practice evidence-based medicine?

Yes, DOs are trained to practice evidence-based medicine, utilizing the best available research to guide their clinical decisions.

Are DOs accepted in hospitals?

Yes, DOs are widely accepted in hospitals across the United States and hold positions at all levels.

Why should I choose a DO?

Choosing a DO offers several potential benefits. DOs are often known for their holistic approach to care, their focus on preventative medicine, and their expertise in OMT. Ultimately, the best choice depends on your individual needs and preferences. Consider that answering the question of “Do Osteopathic Physicians Also Consider Themselves Medical Doctors?” is yes, and consider if their holistic approach to medicine is a good fit for you.