Doctor Of Medicine Vs Doctor Of Osteopathic Medicine
When it comes to healthcare and medical treatment, many people are unaware of the differences between a Doctor of Medicine (MD) and a Doctor of Osteopathic Medicine (DO). While both of these medical professionals are licensed to provide medical care, their approach to treatment and medical training differ.
What is a Doctor of Medicine?
A Doctor of Medicine (MD) is a medical professional who has completed a four-year medical program offered by a medical school accredited by the Liaison Committee on Medical Education (LCME). This program is a traditional medical school curriculum that focuses on the scientific, evidence-based approach to medical treatment. MDs are trained to diagnose and treat illnesses using the latest medical research and technology.
After completing their medical program, MDs typically complete a residency program in a specialized field of medicine, such as pediatrics, internal medicine, or surgery. Residency programs can range from three to seven years in length and provide hands-on training in their chosen field. Once they have completed their residency, MDs can choose to pursue further specialization through a fellowship program.
What is a Doctor of Osteopathic Medicine?
A Doctor of Osteopathic Medicine (DO) is a medical professional who has completed a four-year medical program offered by a college of osteopathic medicine accredited by the Commission on Osteopathic College Accreditation (COCA). DOs are trained to treat the whole person, rather than just the symptoms of an illness or injury.
DOs are trained to use a hands-on approach to medical treatment, which is known as osteopathic manipulative treatment (OMT). OMT involves using manual techniques to diagnose and treat injuries and illnesses. DOs are also trained to focus on preventive healthcare and work with patients to help them achieve optimal health.
After completing their medical program, DOs typically complete a residency program in a specialized field of medicine, just like MDs. DOs can also choose to pursue further specialization through a fellowship program.
What are the Differences Between MDs and DOs?
While both MDs and DOs are licensed to practice medicine, their approach to medical treatment and training differ. MDs are trained to use evidence-based medicine to diagnose and treat illnesses, while DOs are trained to use a more holistic approach to medical treatment.
DOs are also trained to use OMT, which involves using manual techniques to diagnose and treat injuries and illnesses. MDs do not use OMT as part of their medical treatment.
Another difference between MDs and DOs is their approach to preventive healthcare. DOs focus on preventive healthcare and work with patients to help them achieve optimal health, while MDs tend to focus on treating illnesses and injuries after they occur.
Which One Should You Choose?
When it comes to choosing a medical professional, the most important thing is to find someone who you trust and who can provide you with the best medical care possible. Both MDs and DOs are licensed to provide medical care and are trained to diagnose and treat illnesses.
If you are looking for a medical professional who uses a more holistic approach to medical treatment and focuses on preventive healthcare, a DO may be the right choice for you. If you prefer a medical professional who uses evidence-based medicine to diagnose and treat illnesses, an MD may be the right choice for you.
Conclusion
When it comes to choosing between a Doctor of Medicine and a Doctor of Osteopathic Medicine, it is important to understand the differences between these medical professionals. MDs are trained to use evidence-based medicine to diagnose and treat illnesses, while DOs are trained to use a more holistic approach to medical treatment and focus on preventive healthcare.
Ultimately, the most important thing is to find a medical professional who you trust and who can provide you with the best medical care possible.