by Dr. Jen Caudle
Recently, Trump's physician came under fire for being a DO, Osteopathic Physician. I am an Osteopathic Physician and a very proud one. Before I tell you why I'm a proud Osteopathic Family Physician, let me tell you what DO's (Doctors of Osteopathic Medicine) are.
According to the American Osteopathic Association:
- DO's are one of the 2 types of physicians licensed to practice medicine and surgery in this country.
- DOs practice in all areas of medicine such as Dermatology, Surgery, Pediatrics, and more.
- DO's are licensed to practice medicine by licensing boards in each state.
- DO's become board-certified by completing the appropriate requirements.
- DOs receive special training in the nerves, muscles, and bones and practice OMT, Osteopathic Manipulative Treatment, in addition to prescribing medications, performing surgery, etc.
Like many, I didn't grow up knowing what Osteopathic Medicine was, but when I learned about it, I was hooked. In fact, when I learned about Osteopathic Medicine I decided to only apply to Osteopathic Medical Schools. Here's my story:
Other Facts:
- Like MDs, Osteopathic Physicians (DO's) complete 4 years of medical school followed by internships, residencies, and fellowships.
- DOs and MDs work side by side in the healthcare settings to take care of patients.
- MD and DO med schools often share professors and in some cases, students take the same courses.
- "The profession is one of the fastest-growing segments in health care today, with one out of every four medical students enrolled in an osteopathic medical school." -American Osteopathic Association
To find a DO near you, click here: https://doctorsthatdo.osteopathic.org/find-your-do
Hope this is helpful!
Dr. Jen
Dr. Jen Caudle is a Family Doctor & Associate Professor at Rowan University, On-air health expert, and Video creator. Please sign up for her free newsletter and follow her on Instagram, Facebook, and YouTube for daily health videos.