Pacific Northwest University Of Health Sciences Osteopathic Medicine
The Pacific Northwest University of Health Sciences (PNWU) is a private, non-profit university located in Yakima, Washington. It was established in 2005 and is dedicated to educating and training healthcare professionals who are committed to providing quality, patient-centered care to the rural and underserved areas of the Pacific Northwest.
What is Osteopathic Medicine?
Osteopathic medicine is a branch of medicine that emphasizes the interconnectedness of the body’s systems and the importance of treating the whole person rather than just the symptoms of a disease. Osteopathic physicians (DOs) receive the same training as medical doctors (MDs), but also receive additional training in osteopathic manipulative treatment (OMT), which uses hands-on techniques to diagnose and treat musculoskeletal problems and other health issues.
Programs Offered at PNWU
PNWU offers several programs in osteopathic medicine, including:
- Doctor of Osteopathic Medicine (DO)
- Master of Science in Medical Sciences (MSMS)
- Master of Science in Global Health (MSGH)
- Master of Healthcare Administration (MHA)
The DO program is a four-year program that prepares students to become licensed osteopathic physicians. The MSMS program is a one-year program designed to enhance the knowledge and skills of students who are interested in pursuing a career in healthcare. The MSGH program is a one-year program that focuses on global health issues and prepares students to work in international healthcare settings. The MHA program is a two-year program that prepares students for leadership roles in healthcare organizations.
Admissions Requirements
The admissions process for the DO program at PNWU is competitive. Applicants must have a bachelor’s degree from an accredited college or university and have completed the required pre-medical coursework. They must also take the Medical College Admission Test (MCAT) and submit letters of recommendation and a personal statement. In addition, applicants must demonstrate a commitment to serving rural and underserved areas.
Curriculum
The DO program at PNWU is a four-year program that consists of two years of classroom instruction followed by two years of clinical training. The curriculum is designed to provide students with a strong foundation in the basic sciences, as well as training in osteopathic manipulative treatment (OMT) and other hands-on techniques. In addition, students have the opportunity to gain clinical experience in a variety of healthcare settings, including hospitals, clinics, and community health centers.
Clinical Rotations
During the third and fourth years of the DO program, students participate in clinical rotations in a variety of medical specialties, including family medicine, internal medicine, surgery, pediatrics, and obstetrics and gynecology. These rotations provide students with hands-on experience in diagnosing and treating patients under the supervision of licensed physicians.
Residency Programs
After completing the DO program, graduates are eligible to apply for residency programs in a variety of medical specialties. PNWU has partnerships with several hospitals and healthcare organizations in the Pacific Northwest to provide residency opportunities for its graduates.
Conclusion
The Pacific Northwest University of Health Sciences Osteopathic Medicine is a top-notch medical school that provides exceptional training for healthcare professionals who are committed to serving rural and underserved areas. With its rigorous curriculum, hands-on training, and emphasis on patient-centered care, PNWU is an excellent choice for students who are interested in pursuing a career in osteopathic medicine.
