What's the Difference Between an MD and a DO?
MDs and DOs are trained to work in the same fields of medicine, including primary care, surgery, and other specialties. The key difference lies in the additional education DOs receive in osteopathic manipulative medicine (OMM). DOs are trained to take a holistic approach to healthcare, considering the whole person—including lifestyle, environment, and social determinants of health—alongside traditional medical practices.
The Path to Becoming a Medical Doctor (MD)
The Path to Becoming a Doctor of Osteopathic Medicine (DO)
Basic Educational Requirements:
A bachelor's degree, including prerequisite courses in biology, chemistry, physics, and calculus.
Entrance Exam:
Achieve a strong score on the MCAT
Medical School:
4 years of medical school training to gain foundational knowledge in various areas of medicine.
Medical School:
4 years of medical school training, similar to MDs, but with additional training in osteopathic manipulative medicine (OMM). OMM is a hands-on approach that involves using the hands to diagnose, treat, and prevent conditions related to muscles, bones, and joints.
Residency:
After completing medical school, DOS complete a residency program, similar to MDs, but often with a focus on holistic and preventive care..
Residency:
After completing medical school, MDS enter a residency program specializing in a specific area of medicine. The residency program typically lasts 3-7 years, depending on the specialty.