What is an MD and DO?

In the United States, MD (Medical Doctor) and DO (Doctor of Osteopathic Medicine) are two distinct medical degree titles that reflect different educational philosophies and approaches. Both MDs and DOs are licensed physicians who can provide a wide range of medical services, but they delve into their practices from different perspectives, reflecting unique educational backgrounds.

Philosophical Differences

The primary distinction between MDs and DOs lies in their fundamental philosophies. MDs practice allopathic medicine, which involves the use of medications and surgical interventions to treat illnesses and injuries. In contrast, DOs adopt a holistic approach to healthcare, emphasizing the body's inherent ability to heal and the importance of preventative measures.

DOs emphasize preventative holistic medicine based on the following tenets:

The body is a unit: The human body is viewed as an integrated unit with all its systems working together to maintain health. The body has self-healing mechanisms: The body is capable of healing itself given the right conditions and support. Treatment should focus on the root cause: Osteopathic medicine aims to identify and treat the underlying cause of a disease or condition rather than just treating the symptoms. Prevention is key: Osteopathic physicians emphasize preventive medicine with a focus on healthy lifestyle habits and early intervention to prevent disease and injury. Osteopathic manipulative medicine: DOs use their hands to diagnose and treat injuries and illnesses using techniques such as joint mobilization, stretching, and massage.

Curriculum and Training Differences

While both MDs and DOs undergo rigorous medical training, there are significant differences in the specific training they receive. MDs typically attend medical schools that follow a traditional curriculum, focusing on scientific principles and a range of medical specialties like cardiology, oncology, or pediatrics. DOs, on the other hand, attend specialized medical schools that include not only the standard medical education but also an additional 200 hours of training in Osteopathic Manipulative Medicine (OMM) or Osteopathic Manipulative Treatment (OMT).

OMM is a hands-on technique used to diagnose and treat various musculoskeletal conditions, from minor headaches to severe back pain. It can be used in conjunction with or instead of medication. This unique training enhances DOs' ability to provide non-invasive treatments and offers a more comprehensive approach to patient care.

Education Paths and Career Opportunities

After completing their medical education, both MDs and DOs have the same professional opportunities to become licensed physicians. They can choose to pursue careers in private practice, academic medicine, research, or public health. However, the educational paths and admission requirements differ significantly between MD and DO programs.

The average GPA and MCAT scores of those who matriculate at DO schools are 3.6 and 505, respectively, compared to 3.75 and 512 for MD matriculants. DO schools often accept a higher percentage of non-traditional students, whose admission statistics may not be as strong but who bring extensive life and/or pre-medical experiences to the program. This diversity in qualifications reflects the school's commitment to diversity and inclusivity in the medical profession.

Conclusion

Understanding the distinctions between MDs and DOs is crucial for those considering a career in medicine. While both degrees lead to a similar profession, the choice between MD and DO depends on individual preferences and the desire to follow a more integrated, holistic approach to healthcare.