What does an osteopathic physician do?

The philosophy of an osteopathic physician is that the body has intrinsic healing mechanisms and that the promotion of health can be obtained by treating the whole person - health is an expression of spiritual, psychological, physical, and environmental factors. Osteopathic physicians may use manipulation of bone or soft tissues to promote health because they believe that structure and function are interrelated. An osteopathic physician can take patient histories, order laboratory tests, read x-rays, diagnose illness or the extent of an injury, and prescribe medications. They have also completed hands-on training in an area of specialty that gives them license to perform a variety of tasks specific to their residency or fellowship training (i.e., surgery). Osteopathic physicians can do a residency in any medical specialty that they choose (and get accepted into) such as family practice, cardiothoracic surgery, orthopedics, pediatrics, etc. In a clinical setting, it would be difficult to discern the M.D. from the D.O. without seeing the letters behind the physician’s name.

How are the osteopathic physician (D.O.) and allopathic physician (M.D.) different? Are there any limitations placed on the osteopathic physician that are not pertinent for the allopathic physician?

How long will it take to obtain a degree in osteopathic medicine, and what is the curriculum like?

What tests will I need to take to become a licensed osteopathic physician?

What courses should I take at Wittenberg to prepare for osteopathic medical school?

What major should I pursue at Wittenberg if I am interested in osteopathic medicine?

Do I need to have medically related hours when applying to osteopathic medical schools?

Is it important that I participate in extracurricular activities while at Wittenberg?

How can I locate the osteopathic program that is best for me?

Which schools are best for me to apply to outside of my home state?

How and when should I apply to osteopathic schools?

What is the Medical College Admission Test (MCAT)?

Do I need to go through the Pre-Health Professions Committee interview when applying?

Do I need to coordinate my applications through a service?

Do you have any tips for preparing an attractive application?

Which osteopathic medical schools have Wittenberg students been accepted to in the last 10 years?

What are some of the osteopathic programs in the country?